THE ORPHAN’S FATE IN VIETNAMESE FOLK VERSES AND PROVERBS

Abstract

This article investigates the status of orphans in Vietnamese proverbs and folk poetry, thereby revealing the deep humanistic values embedded in Vietnamese folk culture. The author approaches the topic from three perspectives: the concept and origin of the term, the subjective viewpoint (experiences of orphans), and the objective viewpoint (community perception). The analysis shows that orphans are portrayed as individuals facing significant emotional and material deprivation, often isolated and vulnerable. Vietnamese folklore expresses deep sympathy for them, urging communal care and protection, while also reflecting social prejudices regarding rootlessness, difficulties in marriage, and lower social standing. The study not only sheds light on a relatively underexplored figure in the realm of proverbs and folk poetry but also affirms the ethical ideals and spirit of mutual compassion central to Vietnamese culture. It further opens up potential directions for cross-cultural comparisons and for tracing the transformation of the orphan motif in modern literature.