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Prompt: Through the analysis of The story of the appointment of Tản Viên temple's judge, students are asked to prove the assertion: The story of the appointment of Tản Viên temple's judge reflects the aspiration for victory of justice and righteousness.
I. Outline
II. Sample Essay
The narrative of appointing Tản Viên temple's judge embodies the desire for the triumph of justice and righteousness.
Exemplary essay: Proving the assertion - The narrative of appointing Tản Viên temple's judge embodies the desire for the triumph of justice and righteousness
Nguyễn Dữ, hailing from Trường Tân district (now part of Hải Dương province), was born and raised in a family with a literary tradition. His father, Dr. Nguyễn Tường Phiêu, was well-versed in the literature and poetry of the nation. His 'Truyền kì mạn lục', written in the 16th century, comprises twenty stories. While the stories may be fantastical and somewhat surreal, they shed light on the societal conditions during what is considered a dark period in Vietnamese history. The story of 'The Appointment of Tản Viên temple's judge' is an excellent narrative that extols the human aspiration for righteousness to always triumph over evil, and emphasizes the national spirit and patriotism of the author.
'The Appointment of Tản Viên temple's judge' is based on a Chinese legend, popular during the Tang dynasty. The tale incorporates many fantastical elements, but beneath the fantasy lies profound realism, reflecting the societal life under a dark feudal regime, marked by deceit and injustice. Ngô Tử Văn, with his honesty and righteousness, vanquishes the evil spirit of the Ming invaders, restoring peace to the people.
Appalled by the rampant evil, Ngô Tử Văn bravely stood up against the Thôi invaders, exposing their deceit and injustice before the King of the Underworld, demanding justice and compelling the guilty to accept appropriate punishment. The captivating details of the story, combined with fantastical elements, not only add allure to the narrative but also help readers appreciate the love for their homeland, Vietnam, by the noble warriors.
From the outset, Ngô Tử Văn is introduced as a person of integrity, resilience, outspokenness, and above all, abhorrence for evil. His act of burning the temple affirms these traits. When the Thôi invaders defeated the local officials of the temple and seized control of it, they placed idols alongside to silence dissent and exert dominance over Ngô Tử Văn's village, leaving the villagers helpless.
Only Tử Văn alone rose up against the invaders, resolutely burning the temple to deprive the enemy of a foothold. Before setting the temple ablaze, he performed cleansing rituals to inform the heavens and the earth of his intent. Tử Văn's act of burning the temple was not a nerve-wracking gesture but a manifestation of his indignation, declaring war on the forces of darkness. A humble individual stood up against evil deities.
The act of burning the temple revealed the steadfast, courageous, and righteous character, serving the good of the people, embodying the phrase 'Intolerable evil must be confronted.' Tử Văn believed his temple burning was in accordance with divine will, yet it contradicted his own thoughts. After burning the temple, Tử Văn felt uncomfortable, experiencing bouts of fever and chills.
Amidst the confusion, Tử Văn encountered a figure 'tall and imposing, wearing a conical hat, speaking in a northern accent,' who berated him. Using the language of Confucianism, he chastised Tử Văn for not understanding the morality of gods and demons, accusing him of disrespecting the divine and daring to 'desecrate and burn temples.' Despite the threats, Tử Văn remained steadfast, unwavering in his determination.
From these details, we see Tử Văn as a strong, resolute individual, unfazed by the threats of the evil deity. He maintains his steadfast attitude, even in the face of death. Tử Văn is prepared to confront any hardship and adversity.
Subsequently, he was captured by demon messengers and led to a terrifying place, crossing a vast river flanked by dark and gloomy shores, a place akin to the underworld of the mortal realm, where demons with green eyes and red hair lurked, exceedingly fierce. Yet Tử Văn walked proudly, without a hint of fear, a hero's spirit proclaiming, 'This Ngô Soạn is an upright knight in the mortal realm.'
Before the presence of the King of the Underworld, a chilling atmosphere prevailed as the Thôi family accused Tử Văn. Unperturbed, Tử Văn challenged the King, 'If the king does not believe me, send a letter to Tản Viên temple to inquire. If it turns out I'm wrong, I will accept additional punishment.' Seeing Tử Văn's resilience, the Thôi family confessed their guilt.
To fully explore the remarkable content of the work 'The Story of Tản Viên Temple's Lawsuit,' alongside the exemplary essay 'Asserting the Notion: The Story of Tản Viên Temple's Lawsuit is a Triumph of Justice and Righteousness,' one should not overlook: Analyzing the Artistic Merits in 'The Story of Tản Viên Temple's Lawsuit,' Elucidating 'The Story of Tản Viên Temple's Lawsuit' by Nguyễn Dữ, Reflecting on the Character Ngô Tử Văn in 'The Story of Tản Viên Temple's Lawsuit,' Analyzing the Significance of the Conclusion in 'The Story of Tản Viên Temple's Lawsuit,' and the concluding remarks of the narrative.
