Analyzing the Character of Thuy Kieu to Highlight the Humanitarian Values in the Tale of Kieu

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Sample Essay: Analyzing the Character Thuy Kieu to Accentuate the Humanitarian Values in the Tale of Kieu

Alongside portraying the feudalistic social reality of that era, Nguyen Du also infused his thoughts and emotions into shaping the character Thuy Kieu. Now, analyze Thuy Kieu's character to bring to the forefront the humanitarian values in the Tale of Kieu and the messages the poet conveys through this work.

Essay Prompt: Analyze the Character of Thuy Kieu to Emphasize the Humanitarian Values in the Tale of Kieu

Sample Essay: Analyzing Thuy Kieu's Character to Illuminate the Humanitarian Values in the Tale of Kieu

Sample Essay: Analyzing the Character Thuy Kieu to Accentuate the Humanitarian Values in the Tale of Kieu

'The Tale of Kieu' by Nguyen Du is no longer an unfamiliar work to all of us. Written in Nom script with 3254 six-eight couplets, the narrative draws from the story of 'Kim Van Kieu Truyen' by Thanh Tam Tai Nhan, a renowned Chinese literary figure. 'The Tale of Kieu' not only serves as a critique of the unjust and cruel social reality but also stands out for its profound humanitarian values embodied in the character Thuy Kieu. Thuy Kieu is the central character of the story, leaving a lasting impression on readers.

Humanitarian values are sincere emotions emanating from the artist's heart towards their characters, and humanity in general. They encompass empathy, compassion for the unfortunate destinies. Additionally, the author expresses appreciation, praise for the beauty of the soul, faith in social justice, and the longing for freedom in human love. All of these aspects are vividly portrayed through the character Thuy Kieu by Nguyen Du—a beauty destined for tragedy, evoking deep sympathy from the readers.

Nguyen Du extolled her beauty with impressive verses:

'Autumn's brushstrokes, a touch of spring's charm'

Envious flowers, outshone by the tender willows

One or two, tilting waters tilt the city

Color insists on one, talent insists on two'

'Eyes are the windows to the soul, and Nguyen Du, with a keen eye, couldn't overlook that detail. Thuy Kieu's eyes carry the purity of an autumn water landscape, with her eyebrows gracefully shaped like spring mountain ridges. Did this detail foreshadow that Thuy Kieu's future, instead of being tranquil behind a 'veil of modesty,' would encounter numerous challenges and storms? The verbs 'jealous' and 'resentful' reveal nature's envy towards Thuy Kieu's 'perfect ten' beauty. Her 'bewitching beauty' is incomparable in the mortal realm, with only Kieu possessing such grace. As for talent, fortune smiles upon a second individual. Kieu is a complete package of beauty and intelligence:'

'Inherently intelligent by divine nature'

Mastering the art of poetry with a hint of melodious charm

Possessing a compassionate heart in the realm of musical tones

'A profession that outshines the piano and one brushstroke defeats a painting'.

Blessed with intelligence and talent, she excels in all four domains: music, chess, poetry, and painting. However, her mastery shines brightest in playing musical instruments. Kieu is well-versed in the five notes: gong, shang, diao, zhu, and yu in the pentatonic scale of ancient music. Her musical skill surpasses and 'eclipses' everyone else. Moreover, she composed the 'Silver Destiny,' a piece resonating with pain and melancholy.

Thuy Kieu's beauty becomes more comprehensive through filial piety towards her parents and unwavering loyalty to her lover:

'Fateful encounters, virtues rewarded'

Which is weightier, the word of love or the word of filial piety?

To uphold the oath, amidst the majestic mountains and seas

Being a child first means repaying the debt of giving birth.

Kieu's painful dilemma in choosing between filial piety and love is evident. She sacrificed her love for Kim Trong to redeem her father and younger brother. Even in the Ngung Bich Pavilion, the longing for her parents intensifies, and the ache persists. She pities her aging parents, and she cannot be by their side to care for them:

'Heart-wrenching, like a door tomorrow'

'The fan warms, but chills those who are now'

The humanitarian values in 'The Tale of Kieu' are also reflected in Thuy Kieu's love for Kim Trong. It embodies the idea of a free love by the great poet Nguyen Du. Meeting for the first time on a clear spring day, both the 'national beauty' and the 'genius' felt 'love within, as if faces met outside.' From then on, Kim Trong rented a place near Thuy Kieu's home to catch a glimpse of her, while Thuy Kieu would 'quietly step through the late-night garden' to Kim Trong's house, pledging to 'carve a word into a bronze hundred years.' Their love is free, proactive, stemming from the voluntary commitment of both parties. It shattered the traditional rituals that bound women to strict rules and laws. They were entirely passive and had no right to be proactive in love. Thuy Kieu's loyalty to Kim caused immense pain when she handed over her destiny to Thuy Van, hoping she would fulfill the vow with Kim Trong.

Her life is a series of successive tragedies. The deep love with Kim Trong was abruptly 'cut off in the middle of the road' by the sudden misfortune that befell Thuy Kieu's family. Love shattered, and the two had to endure separation and distance for a long time. When they reunited, though the emotions remained, they chose to handle it as 'a shared fate is also a fate among friends.'

Running parallel to the tragic love story is the tragedy that tramples on human dignity. To redeem her father and brother, Kieu sold herself to the lecherous Ma Giam Sinh to become his wife. However, this cunning deceiver sold Kieu into the infamous green house, leading her to endure 'the green tower twice, the green agony twice.' She faced human traffickers and schemers like Tu Ba, Bac Ba, Bac Hanh, Ma Giam Sinh, So Khanh, making Kieu live a disgraceful life in the sordid green chambers. It is a realistic depiction that the author wants to condemn. Nguyen Du criticized society for trampling on human dignity for the sake of money, where the power of money can turn innocence into injustice, forcing innocent people to endure unwarranted suffering.

Discussing the human values in 'The Tale of Kieu,' Mong Lien Duong made a valid observation: 'The writing seems like blood flowing from the tip of the pen, tears soaking the paper, making anyone who reads it feel deeply moved and sorrowful.' Indeed, Nguyen Du portrays the fate of women with so much empathy and compassion:

'Agonizing for the fate of women'

'The saying that silver destiny is a shared fate'

He empathizes with Thuy Kieu's fate, enduring relentless oppression. He cherishes the longing for a love of freedom, the desire to live, and her pursuit of happiness. 'If not for eyes that see through six realms and a heart contemplating a thousand lifetimes, such writing prowess would be impossible' (Mong Lien Duong). If not for a poet's love for the unfortunate, Nguyen Du might not have crafted the renowned 'The Tale of Kieu,' celebrated not only in Vietnam but translated into many languages worldwide.

Thuy Kieu embodies Nguyen Du's humanitarian ideals and represents the human values throughout this masterpiece. 'The Tale of Kieu' has stirred our hearts, evoking tears of pity for the character Thuy Kieu. It is a monumental legacy, the soul of the Vietnamese people. 'As long as 'The Tale of Kieu' exists, our language endures, our language endures, our country endures' (Pham Quynh).

'The Tale of Kieu' is a renowned work by the poet Nguyen Du. Alongside the essay analyzing the character Thuy Kieu to highlight the human values in 'The Tale of Kieu,' teachers and students can explore other exemplary essays, such as Analyzing the portrayal of nature in Kieu's story, The art of character description in 'The Tale of Kieu,' My thoughts on the character Tu Hai in 'The Tale of Kieu,' The beauty of language in Kieu's story, and summaries of 'The Tale of Kieu' or even Composition on 'The Tale of Kieu.'

Frequently Asked Questions

What humanitarian values are embodied in Thuy Kieu's character?

Thuy Kieu embodies values such as empathy, compassion, and a longing for freedom. Through her sacrifices for family and enduring love for Kim Trong, Nguyen Du illustrates the profound impact of societal injustices on individual lives, showcasing deep humanitarian concerns.

How does Nguyen Du depict Thuy Kieu's beauty and intelligence?

Nguyen Du highlights Thuy Kieu's beauty through vivid imagery, comparing her features to natural elements, while emphasizing her intelligence and artistic talents. This portrayal illustrates her as a multifaceted character, blessed with both physical allure and exceptional skills in music and poetry.

In what ways does Thuy Kieu's love for Kim Trong represent free love?

Thuy Kieu's love for Kim Trong defies traditional societal norms, showcasing a proactive, mutual commitment. Their relationship is marked by emotional depth and shared desires, symbolizing a break from rigid conventions that often restrict women's autonomy in love.

What are the main tragedies that Thuy Kieu experiences throughout the tale?

Thuy Kieu endures multiple tragedies, including family separation, forced marriage, and exploitation. These misfortunes illustrate the relentless societal pressures she faces, ultimately leading to her struggles with identity, dignity, and the pursuit of happiness amid adversity.

How does 'The Tale of Kieu' critique societal norms and injustices?

Through Thuy Kieu's story, Nguyen Du critiques societal injustices, particularly how money and power can corrupt and exploit individuals. The tale reveals the harsh realities of women's oppression and advocates for compassion and empathy towards their plight.

What significance does the character of Thuy Kieu hold in Vietnamese literature?

Thuy Kieu represents the essence of Vietnamese literature, embodying the nation's struggles, values, and aspirations. Her character resonates deeply with readers, making 'The Tale of Kieu' a timeless masterpiece that reflects cultural identity and human experience.

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