Reflecting on the segment of Heroic Willpower

Prompt: Please share your insights on the Heroic Willpower segment excerpted from 'The Tale of Kieu' by Nguyen Du.

Reflections on the Heroic Spirit Segment

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I. Outline for Reflecting on the Heroic Spirit Segment (Standard)

1. Introduction:

Introduction to the author, the work, and the excerpt 'Heroic Spirit'.

2. Body:

* General Overview

After being sold to the brothel for the second time, Kiều is redeemed by Từ Hải to become his wife. The excerpt discusses Từ Hải's determination to embark on a career path.

a. Opening Four Sentences: Từ Hải's Aspirations and Dreams

- Circumstances of Từ Hải's Departure:

+ 'Half a Year': a short period since Từ Hải saved Kiều, during which they were together.
+ 'The fragrance of love is intense': the happy, cozy, and passionate life of Kiều and Từ Hải.

- Từ Hải's Departure Posture:

+ 'Vast expanses of sky and sea': vast, endless, magnificent space.

→ The backdrop highlights the heroic figure's beauty.

+ Bold, arrogant, and ready posture: alone, with a horse, and a sword.

→ Từ Hải's noble aspirations for his journey.

b. Following Two Sentences: Thúy Kiều's Words

- 'A woman's fate is to be obedient', 'with one heart I ask to leave': Kiều willingly asks to accompany Từ Hải.
- Kiều's words are earnest, straightforward, without hesitation, affirming her character's beauty.

c. Following Ten Sentences: Từ Hải's Response

- Hoping Kiều understands his aspirations:

+ Affirmation of mutual understanding - 'mutual happiness, mutual understanding'.
+ Từ advises Kiều to rise above ordinary feelings to become a strong support.

- Promise:

+ Returning to glorious fame: 'ten thousand soldiers', 'the sound of drums resounding the earth', 'the shadow of a hero covering the street': the space of victory, of brilliant splendor.
+ 'Extraordinary appearance': embodiment of exceptional heroism, beyond the ordinary.
+ 'Escort the lady to the noble family': bestowing upon her a noble status.
+ 'Four seas without a home': the current difficult and challenging situation.
+ 'One year later': a specific time to return and welcome Kiều.

→ The determination and heroic spirit of Từ Hải with lofty ideals.

d. Final Two Sentences: Decisive Action to Depart

- Action of 'resolute words', 'shrugging off the robe': swift, decisive, and resolute.
- Image of a 'soaring bird': posture of departing boldly, with the strong will of a hero.

e. Evaluation

- Content: The excerpt has portrayed the beauty of the hero with lofty ideals and aspirations.
- Artistry: Utilizing idealized writing techniques, magnificent imagery, and aspirations to depict character images.

3. Conclusion:

Affirming the value of the excerpt, and the artistic talent of the author.

>> See details of the Outline for Reflecting on the Heroic Spirit excerpt here.
 

II. Sample Essay Reflections on the Heroic Spirit Segment

1. Reflections on the Heroic Spirit Segment, Sample 1 (Standard)

Nguyễn Du, born in 1766 and passed away in 1820, was a great poet and cultural figure of the nation. He made significant contributions to the development of Vietnamese medieval literature to its pinnacle, most notably with the masterpiece 'The Tale of Kieu' (The New Cry of the Cock). 'The Tale of Kieu' is the empathetic voice of a great poet for the talented yet unfortunate life of Kieu. Not only advocating for talented women who suffered injustice in ancient society, through 'The Tale of Kieu,' the poet also expressed his dream of justice, and the ideal heroic figure who could save the country and help the people through the character image of Từ Hải. The ideals, virtues, and lofty aspirations of the hero Từ Hải are vividly depicted in the excerpt 'Heroic Spirit.'

Từ Hải encountered Kiều in the brothel, rescued her due to admiration for her virtue. Kiều, freed, willingly followed Từ Hải to repay his kindness. The two lived together, bound in happiness as a couple, but not for long, as the ambition for fame and achievement compelled Từ Hải to depart:

'Half a year of intense fragrance,
The husband's heart is stirred by the four directions' call.'

'Half a year' - a short period where both Thuý Kiều and Kim Trọng lived together fully. 'The fragrance of love is intense' - the deep, warm bond between the talented girl and the hero of the realm. At a time when emotions are strong, it seemed that both would accept family happiness for life, but the 'husband' at this point nurtures the spirit of heroism. The verb 'promptly' shows Từ Hải's decisive and determined will as he is ready to set aside personal happiness to pursue a greater purpose. 'Stirred by the four directions' indicates the hero's heart and mind longing to venture into the vast ocean, amidst the vast universe.

'Gazing at the vast sky and sea,
The sword rests, the horse stands, ready for the straight path'

The best essays Reflecting on the Heroic Spirit Segment

Nurturing a daring spirit, eyes set on distant frontiers, where the sky and sea are vast, where heroic deeds are nurtured. Từ Hải's mind seems to be invaded by the entire universe with lofty aspirations. The image of 'vast sky and sea' depicts a vast, endless, magnificent space. It is a space where the hero carries the burden of ambition to achieve great deeds in his lifetime. Not allowing personal happiness to hinder, narrow personal feelings are replaced by grand aspirations: establishing a great career, the hero sets out in a posture full of dignity, arrogance, straight towards the goal. Alone, with a horse, with a sword, heading out to battle, awaiting the day of glory. Từ Hải is truly not a man of ordinary passions, of narrow feelings, but a person of heroic aspirations with grand emotions. This is something truly worth cherishing.

'Kiều said: a woman's fate is to be obedient
If you go, I too wholeheartedly ask to go'

Meeting and parting, Hải bids farewell to Kiều to embark on great determination. Kiều's heart cannot help but ache, for someone who has endured as much pain as her, surely cherishes moments of happiness with Từ Hải even more. Being loyal to Từ, Kiều understood her husband's thoughts, hence she doesn't hinder Từ from leaving, but willingly asks to accompany him to share difficulties, to be cared for, and to shoulder burdens together with Từ. It's Kiều's deeply deserved longing - a devoted wife, trusting her husband completely. Kiều's earnest words, openly expressing her thoughts without hesitation, only affirm her beauty of character - loyalty, courage, and abundant love.

Từ said: 'Mutual happiness, mutual understanding,
Why not escape the ordinary fate of women?'

Although understanding the loyalty of a devoted person, Từ Hải doesn't want Kiều to wander in a strange land, how could he bear to let Kiều endure hardships:

'Now the four seas, no home
Wherever one goes, troubles abound'

Great aspirations await, but ahead lies hardship and challenges. How could Từ bear to let his beloved endure suffering and difficulties? With sincere words, Từ advises Kiều to rise above ordinary feelings of a young girl to be worthy of becoming the wife of a hero in the world.

In bidding farewell to Kiều, Từ Hải reassures her with confident promises:

'When ten thousand soldiers gather,
The sound of bells echoes, shadows cover the streets.
Revealing extraordinary face,
Then I will escort you to the noble family'

Each word, each uttered phrase exudes the grandeur, the great determination of a gentleman with 'head in the sky, feet on the ground'. Setting forth with just a sword, a steed, yet within him, there's faith in a glorious victory, returning with 'ten thousand soldiers', victory banners fluttering, bells chiming in the joy of triumph. On that victorious day, Từ will return with her to enjoy the blissful embrace - 'escort you to the noble family'. Từ's words also affirm his determination on the path to realizing his ideals with a firm promise:

'Willing to wait for it a little longer,
Perhaps just a year is too hasty!'

Từ's counsel to 'willingly wait' further demonstrates his deep understanding of his beloved's feelings. Từ's assured promise of 'one year later' perhaps brings Kiều even greater peace of mind. 'One year' - an incredibly short period for Từ to build his career, for an ordinary person, building a career might take a lifetime, but for Từ Hải, it's just 'one year'. The talent, confidence, and courage of that 'hero' are truly admirable.

'Resolutely uttering farewell and departing,
When the wind and clouds reach the distant sea.'

The farewell words mark the moment when Từ Hải sets out with firm determination. The actions of 'resolutely uttering farewell' and 'departing' vividly depict the heroic departure. He leaves without attachment, sentimentality, or hesitation, but decisively, swiftly, and resolutely. The image of the 'swallow' in the final verse is exceptionally beautiful, with the swallow gracefully flying in the sky, spreading its wings tens of thousands of miles, just like the hero embarking on his journey. The swallow also carries the aspiration to conquer, the extraordinary spirit, and the lofty goal of Từ Hải. The departure of Từ Hải is like a painting of a heroic figure proudly striding through the mortal world, exuding the aura of a hero among all.

'With a heroic spirit, North, South, West, East
Asserting strength to conquer in all four directions.'

It can be said that through the excerpt 'Heroic Spirit,' we can see the author's talent displayed through the pen in the use of language, imagery, and idealization techniques to depict the extraordinary Từ Hải with admirable character traits.

2. Impressions on the Heroic Spirit excerpt, model 2 (Standard)

Nguyễn Du's 'The Tale of Kieu' stands as one of the masterpieces of medieval literature, both within Vietnam's literary landscape and beyond. It not only portrays the life and fate of Thuy Kieu during her fifteen years of wandering but also vividly depicts the portraits and personalities of the characters intertwined with her tumultuous life. One of the characters closely associated with Kieu's turbulent life is Tu Hai. Tu Hai is the heroic figure 'with head touching the sky and feet stepping on the ground,' whose beauty and heroic spirit are prominently showcased in the excerpt 'Heroic Spirit' from 'The Tale of Kieu'.

Tu Hai's appearance is like a refreshing breeze into Kieu's often troubled life. He is the epitome of an ideal hero, possessing strength, charisma, and most importantly, the ability to protect, shelter, and restore justice for Thuy Kieu. And after all, what Kieu needs most is a man like Tu Hai, someone who embodies loyalty and affection while being a worthy patriarch to lean on and love. However, Tu Hai is not the type of man who can endure a confined domestic life, despite the presence of a beautiful woman waiting there.

'Half a year of the fragrance of passion still lingers
The husband abruptly stirred his heart to depart in all directions'

After half a year of living in comfort and happiness with Thuy Kieu, Tu Hai decided to pursue fame and fortune. The word 'abruptly' demonstrates the decisiveness and strength of the hero's thoughts, while 'stirred his heart to depart in all directions' further highlights the stature, strength, and ambition of the heroic figure in seeking success and recognition.

'Gazing across the vast expanse of sky and sea,
The sword at rest, the horse set forth on a straight path'

These two lines further illustrate the heroic spirit and qualities of Tu Hai. 'Gazing across' implies a broad, insightful view, while 'set forth on a straight path' suggests an upright posture and decisive action without hindrance. The image of Tu Hai embarking alone, with only a sword and a horse, reveals his heroic qualities: despite difficulties, he possesses a strong will, daring to challenge mountains and rivers, unafraid of the obstacles ahead.

In the face of Tu Hai's determination, Thuy Kieu requested to accompany him, willing to share the hardships with him:

'She said, 'A woman's duty is loyalty,
If you go, then I, your concubine, also wish to depart''

Understanding Thuy Kieu's thoughts and feelings, Tu Hai decisively declines: 'Why still entangled in ordinary love affairs?' It's both a question and advice, urging the young woman to transcend typical emotions and become a strong support. Tu Hai also expresses love and care for Thuy Kieu, revealing his own aspirations and determination to reassure her:

'When ten thousand soldiers gather,
The sound of drums echoes through the land,
Shading the streets with celestial light,
At that moment, I will bring you home as my bride.'

Essay: Reflection on the Heroic Spirit excerpted from 'The Tale of Kieu' by Nguyen Du

Tu Hai departs with empty hands but carries the determination to return with a skilled army, drums resounding throughout the roads. Phrases like 'ten thousand soldiers', 'echoes through the land', and 'shading the streets' depict grandeur, strength, and magnificence as he embarks on his heroic journey back to his homeland. 'Shading the streets with celestial light' further illustrates his wisdom and awareness of his capabilities, as well as his commitment to fulfill expectations.

The phrase 'At that moment, I will bring you home as my bride' serves as a comforting promise, easing Thuy Kieu's heart and solidifying her resolve to patiently wait at home for his return, ready to build a happy family life together. Moreover, Tu Hai demonstrates foresight and deep care for his woman:

'With the four seas as my home,
The more I journey, the more I know where to go.'

In the initial difficult days, Thuy Kieu accompanying Tu Hai would inevitably face uncertainties, bearing the burdens that come with being a vulnerable woman, potentially hindering his grand ambitions. Concerned about her well-being, Tu Hai leaves her with a reassuring promise:

'I'm willing to wait, no matter how long it takes,
Perhaps just a year, why rush?'

The milestone of one year later demonstrates the determination to succeed, quickly establishing a glorious career, fulfilling both Kiều's heart and the aspirations of a noble man. The stature, perseverance, and strength of Tu Hai truly befit a hero, embodying the ideal qualities of a man, worthy of Thuy Kieu's love.

After comforting words and farewells to his hair-braided wife, Tu Hai swiftly sets forth, resolutely determined. The line 'The wind and clouds have arrived at the distant sea' seems to foretell the imminent illustrious success Tu Hai is about to achieve in the future, a fame that will shake heaven and earth, making the hero a ruler of both land and sky. Moreover, Nguyen Du employs the image of a swift-winged bird soaring over the sea to signify the immense stature and lofty aspirations of Tu Hai, elevating his extraordinary heroism in society. It portrays the dream of a sage who can rise to quell chaos, hold the balance of justice, eliminate evil, and protect the weak and misguided.

The heroic spirit is a remarkable and distinctive excerpt in 'The Tale of Kieu,' where Nguyen Du focuses on exploring a character closely associated with Kieu's life through idealistic and perfect depictions of both appearance and character. Particularly outstanding is the admirable quality of the hero, as in Tu Hai we see aspirations to establish a great and illustrious career, desires to assert oneself in society, thoughtful thinking, decisive and strong behavior, clear distinction between emotions and reason.

3. Reflection on the heroic spirit passage, standard 3

Tu Hai – the hero who 'treads the sky, treads the earth,' the loyal friend 'sharing joys and sorrows,' saved and brought Kieu peaceful, happy days after many turbulent upheavals. Tu Hai appears in the Tale of Kieu not only as Kieu's loyal friend but also as a character embodying the author Nguyen Du's vision of an ideal hero in troubled times. The excerpt 'Heroic Spirit' vividly depicts Tu Hai, an extraordinary hero with lofty aspirations, noble dreams, a courageous gentleman with courage, determination, and confidence.

Falling into the hands of Madame Tu, for the second time, Kieu finds herself in the brothel. She lives in despair and desolation. Then, Tu Hai appears as a savior, rescuing her life. The two become close friends, and Tu Hai takes Kieu away from that miserable place to become husband and wife.

But love for Thuy Kieu cannot detain the hero for long. Half a year later, Tu Hai bids farewell to Kieu to pursue his noble ambition:

'Half a year, the scent of fire is still strong,
The husband's heart is moved in all directions.
Surveying the vast sky and ocean,
Sword in hand, horse at rest, sets forth straight and bold.'

After six months of happiness and warmth with Thuy Kieu, Tu Hai decided to embark on the great ideal of his life. The noble husband, talented as he was, how could he sit still and enjoy a comfortable life, so he 'suddenly moved his heart in all directions.' Just one word 'suddenly' is enough to reveal his decisive, swift, determined, and unexpected attitude when he decided to set out to pursue his career. Along with that, the phrase 'moved his heart in all directions' shows us his lofty ideals. It is the desire to thrive in the world, to be unrestrained in all directions, a strong will that nothing can stop.

In Tu Hai, we find all the noble qualities, the elements of a hero in troubled times, not only high ideals but also courage, determination, and decisive actions. 'Sword in hand, horse at rest, sets forth straight and bold' alone with a sword, a horse, he sets forth 'straight and bold,' swift, decisive, without hesitation. That posture is majestic, imposing, heroic, equal to the universe and the earth.

The four lines are the farewell of Tu Hai and Thuy Kieu. But in them, we also see the heroic spirit of Tu Hai with his proud departure, strong determination, departing without hesitation.

As for Kieu, she had only 'six months' of peaceful and happy life. She did not want to lose such a peaceful life, and also because Kieu wanted to share all responsibilities with her husband. Therefore, when Tu Hai left, she asked to follow him.

She said: 'As a woman, I must obey
If you go, I too, wholeheartedly wish to go'

She referred to the reason 'to follow as a devoted wife,' wherever he goes, she wishes to follow. Kieu's reason was very reasonable, very worthy. However, Tu Hai cleverly refused her, awakening the rationality within her:

Tu said: 'Heart and fate are intertwined
Why not break free from ordinary feminine emotions?''

Tu Hai believed that they had become 'kindred spirits,' meaning they could understand each other clearly, surely, Kieu must understand his aspirations. Therefore, he advised Kieu to 'break free from ordinary feminine emotions,' not to let emotions override reason, obstructing his path to realizing his ideals. At the same time, he also advised her to think clearly to deserve to be the confidant of a hero.

Top-notch Reflections on the Heroic Spirit excerpt

In the following lines, Tu Hai reveals his grandeur through his promise to return, stating:

“When ten thousand troops assemble,
The sound of bells awakening the earth, shadows covering the path.
Rendering the extraordinary faces clear,
Then will I bring you back as my honored spouse.”

Thus, it can be seen that this time Tu Hai departs with the determination to achieve fame and success, only to return. The imagery of 'ten thousand troops, bells awakening the earth, shadows covering the path' portrays his dreams and aspirations. His dream is to establish a magnificent and prominent career, to shine brightly in the world. This aspiration, this dream, carries the vastness and grandeur of the universe. He wants the world to witness his stature, to affirm his extraordinary talent among all.

“Revealing the extraordinary faces clear,
Then will I bring you back as my honored spouse.”

And at that moment, when accomplishments are made, fame is achieved, he will escort Kieu home, bestowing upon her a great status and living happily ever after with her.

This time when Tu Hai departs, he not only goes to fulfill the aspirations deep in his heart but also for Kieu, directed towards Kieu, wanting her to have a more peaceful, happier life than others.

Not only a person with grand ambitions, Tu Hai also has a broad perspective. He tells Kieu:

“Now the four seas have no home,
Where should one go with increasing busyness?”

Tu Hai is aware of his talent, he has confidence in that talent, believing that he will surely make a career, but currently, he has nothing in hand, and being entangled with the young lady makes him distracted. Will he be able to make a career? Moreover, Kieu is a delicate woman, unable to endure the hardships of war and wandering alongside him. Therefore, he wants her to stay at home, becoming a solid rear support for him.

In response to Kieu's waiting, Tu Hai is determined not to disappoint the lady. He promises Kieu firmly:

“Willing to wait for a little longer,
Perhaps just a year, what's the hurry?”

This is the firm promise of Tu Hai that he will return after a year. It's the mutual commitment of the two and also Tu Hai's confident affirmation of his own talent.

The dialogue between Kieu and Tu Hai highlights the determination and aspiration of the hero Tu Hai to leave. His ambition and determination are so immense that nothing can stop him!

Finally, after many expressions and advice, Tu Hai bids farewell to Kieu and sets off:

“Resolutely I leave with determination,
The wind and clouds now reach the distant sea.”

His departure was resolute, without hesitation. He left like a soaring bird, determined and unwavering. The imagery of the 'soaring bird' symbolizes the extraordinary courage and ambition of the hero, Tu Hai. Comparing Tu Hai to a 'soaring bird' illustrates his extraordinary courage, strength, and cosmic stature. His departure signifies the beginning of a glorious career, echoing throughout the land.

Through classic literary techniques, Nguyen Du portrays a hero of great moral integrity, strength, decisiveness, and idealism. Tu Hai is a complete hero, empathetic and rational, fulfilling Nguyen Du's imaginative vision of a courageous hero standing up against tyranny, bringing peace, justice, and fairness to society.

4. Reflection on the Heroic Spirit Passage, Standard 4

Nguyen Du's 'The Tale of Kieu' is acclaimed as the greatest masterpiece of Vietnamese classical literature, classified as a model of Nom poetic narrative. With its indictment of social injustices and compassion for the unfortunate, especially oppressed women, Nguyen Du thoroughly expresses humanitarian ideals, cherishing and respecting human beings comprehensively. Within Nguyen Du's overarching humanitarian ideology, the admiration for human beauty is evident through the main character, Thuy Kieu, as he constructs an idealized character with comprehensive beauty in both personality and character. Alongside the ideal of feminine beauty, Nguyen Du also harbors a dream of an ideal hero through the depiction of the character Tu Hai - a man with a significant role in Kieu's life. This beauty is vividly revealed by the Heroic Spirit passage.

The excerpt spans from line 2213 to 2230 of 'The Tale of Kieu', belonging to the section of Family Changes and Wanderings. After her relationship with Thuc Sinh is severed by Hoan Thu's cunning scheme, Thuy Kieu flees to escape humiliation and suffering. Seeking refuge with Monk Giac Duyen, she is sent to live at Mrs. Bac's house, only to be coerced into marrying her niece, Bac Hanh. Although this arrangement initially seems tolerable, Bac Hanh eventually heartlessly sells her to a brothel once again. Kieu's life, after enduring this agony, plunges into further tragedy. Her heart gradually grows cold, her life descending into darkness and despair. It is at this moment that Tu Hai, who has long admired Kieu's reputation, appears to rescue her from the squalid brothel, offering her a life of true marital bliss. Just as their love flourishes, Tu Hai desires to embark on a great career, prompting the poignant farewell dialogue in the Heroic Spirit passage.

Tu Hai and Thuy Kieu are undeniably a pair of heroic lovers, their profound connection evident from their first meeting, understanding each other deeply. Among the men who entered Kieu's life, Tu Hai provided her with the most complete and blissful days, unlike her early broken love with Kim or the tumultuous affair with Thuc. Tu Hai exudes strength and readiness to protect Kieu from misfortune, hence only by his side does she find true peace and enjoyment of life. However, with his 'ambition beyond his capacity' and 'strategic prowess,' Tu Hai cannot settle for a life of ease and luxury like Thuc Sinh or await fame like Kim Trong. His talent, strength, and heroic spirit drive Tu Hai to temporarily part ways with Kieu to pursue a grand career, fulfilling his duty as a nobleman. Thus, for Tu Hai, six months of peaceful life with a beauty while his career remains stagnant is too long. Hence, he swiftly decides to 'set off in all directions.' The term 'set off' aptly demonstrates his determination and decisiveness to pursue his career, while 'all directions' conveys the lofty aspirations and ideals of the character.

Reflection on the Heroic Spirit Passage

In response to Kieu's pleas to accompany him, Tu Hai gently advises her, awakening her understanding and reason by asking, 'How can the heart not be free from ordinary affection?' He initially reproaches Kieu for not understanding her own feelings despite their long-standing relationship, still unable to escape the ordinary emotional turmoil, allowing emotions to overshadow reason and hinder his career. However, it is also an encouragement for Kieu to think clearly, to ensure mutual agreement in their marriage, with her playing the role of support, enabling him to achieve greatness. He then continues to explain, revealing his own heroic spirit through the verses:

'When ten thousand soldiers assemble,
The sound of drums echoes, shadows covering the streets.
Revealing extraordinary countenance,
Then I shall take you, my noble lady.'

Thus, it can be seen that this decisive departure of Tu Hai signifies his determination to achieve great fame. The phrases 'ten thousand soldiers,' 'echoing drums,' and 'shadows covering the streets' all express aspirations for glorious achievements, evoking a majestic and magnificent atmosphere of a hero. Moreover, 'revealing extraordinary countenance' demonstrates Tu Hai's awareness of his exceptional abilities and qualities. Additionally, the line 'Then I shall take you, my noble lady' is Tu Hai's promise to Thuy Kieu, reassuring her to wait patiently for his success. Furthermore, we also perceive Tu Hai as someone with foresight and broad thinking, as he says to Kieu:

'Now with the four seas as my home,
The more I'm occupied, the more I know where to go.'

Tu Hai himself is aware of his potential and talents, objectively acknowledging that he currently has nothing in hand. Being entangled with ordinary affection only further distracts him. Moreover, Kieu's delicate and dependent nature, wandering without purpose, is not ideal. It would not only bring suffering to her but also unsettle Tu Hai, preventing him from pursuing his grand ambitions. Therefore, the best choice is to let Kieu wait at home, providing a stable rear for him. This will strengthen Tu Hai's determination to strive for success, not betraying the expectations of society or his beloved. This determination is evident in his promise: 'I'm willing to wait a little longer, what's the rush even if it's a year later?' It reveals his strong determination and swift action in achieving his career goals, without hesitation or delay.

After his heartfelt words and advice, Tu Hai bid farewell to Thuy Kieu and set off, the verse 'Wind and clouds have reached the distant sea' symbolizes the insightful intention of the author regarding Tu Hai's future illustrious career. Choosing the swift-flying crane - a bird that traverses thousands of miles on wind and waves - to describe the grandeur and extraordinary nature of the hero Tu Hai, reflects the admiration and praise for his strength, resilience, and cosmic stature. This is the moment when the crane soars with the wind and clouds, just as the hero sets out to establish his eminent career, gaining fame throughout the land, never disappointing the expectations of mountains and rivers.

The portrayal of Tu Hai by Nguyen Du compared to Tu Hai in Kim Van Kieu by Thanh Tam Tai Nhan or in the story Vuong Thuy Kieu by Du Hoai is a novel and intriguing artistic improvement. Nguyen Du skillfully transforms the character of Tu Hai into a heroic figure with ideal, comprehensive beauty, harboring dreams of achieving greatness, decisiveness in behavior, and profound understanding of principles, perfectly complementing the talented and virtuous Thuy Kieu. Thus, the love between Kieu and Hai becomes even more beautiful, accentuating Nguyen Du's humanitarian ideals in the work, at least in Vuong Thuy Kieu, despite her misfortune, she also experiences happiness at times, receives what she deserves, and her life also has moments of joy and glory, albeit at a high price.

5. Impressions on the section of Heroic Spirit, Model 5 (Standard):

Nguyen Du is a great poet in Vietnamese literature. He has left many famous works for future generations, among which the most prominent is 'The Tale of Kieu.' The work is a critique of the feudal society of Nguyen Du's time while also embodying the dream of a just society with a worthy hero. Nguyen Du's aspiration is expressed through the character Tu Hai, especially through the excerpt 'Heroic Spirit.'

After the ups and downs of life's first tumultuous events, Kieu thought she would be freed when she encountered Thuc Sinh. However, with his weak and helpless personality, Thuc Sinh could not bring her a peaceful life. At this moment, she once again fell into the hands of human traffickers, Lady Silver and Silver Luck, returning to the life of a courtesan in the green pavilion. And Kieu's life took a turn when she met Tu Hai. Her talent, personality, and beauty deeply impressed Tu, so he liberated her from disgrace and since then, they shared their fate together:

'Heroic boy, boat girl in love, Despising curses, they ride dragons in beauty.'

Not content with the current life, Tu Hai decided to set out to build a great career after six months of intense love with Kieu. The excerpt, with just eighteen verses, shows us the determination, grand ideals that Tu Hai wants to establish, while also feeling the great aspirations of Nguyen Du for a true hero.

At the beginning of the excerpt, one can see the extremely romantic love affair of the talented young man and the beautiful girl. However, after that romantic image comes the beginning of a parting due to great ideals:

'Half a year of passionate love, Suddenly, the nobleman's heart stirred, ready to embark on a journey afar, Gazing into the vast sky and sea, The sword at peace, the horse on a straight path wandering.'

'Half a year' is not a long time, but during that half year, Kieu and Tu Hai were deeply bonded, intensely 'passionate'. The term 'fragrant fire' used by Nguyen Du here is like an idealized image of love. 'Fragrant fire burning intensely' means that the affection of the talented young couple is very intense, seemingly inseparable. However, even in love, Tu Hai always harbors the intention to leave for his ideals. Here, Nguyen Du called Tu Hai a 'nobleman' - a man of talent, virtue, with great ambitions. Therefore, it's not surprising that this 'nobleman' has been 'stirred' to prepare to depart for his ideals. He wants to venture out, to be unrestrained in the 'vast sky and sea,' to have the freedom to thrive and build a great career. The image of the 'vast sky and sea' seems to assert his longing. Therefore, when deciding to leave, he is extremely resolute 'the sword at peace, the horse on a straight path wandering.' The decision is quick, in his resolute 'suddenly', it is realized through decisive action. Alone with a single sword, a good horse, he resolutely sets out to seek his lofty ideals. His posture is extremely dignified, majestic, his actions decisive, worthy of the title 'nobleman' that Nguyen Du bestowed upon him. Not only that, he also places Tu Hai in a position equal to the vast sky and sea, with heaven and earth, to affirm his stature. Nguyen Du portrays a hero with cosmic proportions and lofty ideals, ready to depart for those ideals.

Thoughts on the heroic spirit passage with detailed ideas

The first four verses, though brief, show us the scene of a resolute farewell amidst the intensity of Kieu and Tu Hai's affection, while also indicating the upright posture, majestic demeanor, resolute will, and enthusiasm of this cosmic-scale hero. Through idealized imagery, Nguyen Du seems to affirm his dream of a hero realizing justice.

After the determined farewell words from Tu, Kieu confided her feelings to him:

'She said: As a woman, I must obey, If you leave, I too will insist on going! He replied: Mutual happiness should be sought, Why haven't we escaped the trivial matters of ordinary life yet? When ten thousand soldiers march, The bells will ring, the earth will shake, shadows covering the sky, Revealing extraordinary faces, Then I will bring you home as my noble wife. Why stay with no home across the four seas? The more entangled, the more we know it's time to depart.'

Kieu's heart was set on following Tu, as she did not want to live in loneliness and solitude as before. The word 'obey' she used is also one of the Confucian rites 'the three obediences and the four virtues'. It is very appropriate and reasonable. However, in response to Kieu's words, Tu said:

'He said: Mutual happiness should be sought, Why haven't we escaped the trivial matters of ordinary life yet?'

For him, Kieu was not only a life partner whom he loved and cherished, but also a trusted confidant, a bosom friend. She undoubtedly understood his ideals the best. Therefore, Tu Hai wished for her to 'escape from the ordinary thoughts of women' and to understand and support him. Yet, why does she still fail to understand him? He reproaches her. He departs but will return triumphant to proudly 'escort her as his noble wife'

'When ten thousand soldiers march, The bells will ring, the earth will shake, shadows covering the sky, Revealing extraordinary faces, Then I will escort you as my noble wife'

He embarks on fulfilling his ideals, building his career, returning amidst the sound of bells, banners covering the sky. His ideal partly for himself and partly for her. With that career and glory, he will officially take her as his wife. To achieve such greatness, he must endure countless challenges, 'with no home across the four seas,' how can a delicate woman like Kieu endure such trials? 'With no home across the four seas' also reflects Tu Hai's determination to roam freely. His words serve as both consolation and a promise to return in a year.

Tu Hai's confessions to Kieu are not just the words of spouses or lovers, but the confidences of kindred spirits, of a husband to his bosom friend. These words affirm that Tu Hai is indeed a hero with extraordinary charisma and lofty aspirations. He is truly a hero full of ambition and unwavering will, just as Nguyen Du envisioned.

The excerpt concludes with the image of Tu Hai's determination to depart for his grand mission:

'Resolutely declaring to depart, Wings as swift as the wind, cutting through distant waves'

Having spoken, he immediately sets off, resolute and decisive, without hesitation, not allowing his emotions to sway his will. This characteristic we have witnessed when he redeemed Kieu from the green pavilion, extremely determined and fierce. His departure is likened to that of a swift bird, placed in the vast space of the 'distant waves,' portraying Tu Hai as a symbol of a hero with noble, extraordinary ideals, transcending the ordinary.

The excerpt 'Heroic Spirit' vividly depicts the image of the hero Tu Hai 'traversing the heavens and earth in life.' Through his masterful writing, Nguyen Du shows readers the great aspirations of the hero Tu Hai. That will, that ideal is so intense, steadfast, and immense, affirming the position of a hero with the stature of the universe.

The excerpt paints the image of a nobleman determined to depart for his grand ideals, with a promise to return in glory. It resonates with Nguyen Du's hope for a hero who would dare to stand against tyranny, bring happiness, and demand justice in society.

6. Impression of the excerpt Heroic Spirit, model 6:

Since ancient times, the spirit of 'head reaching the sky, feet stepping on the ground' has been praised, and many authors in literature have written about this spirit. In 'The Tale of Kieu' by Nguyen Du, he constructed the image of the hero Tu Hai with a strong, dignified demeanor always accomplishing great deeds. The excerpt 'Heroic Spirit' demonstrates the extraordinary spirit, the pursuit of great ambitions of the hero Tu Hai, determined to depart resolutely.

Reading 'The Tale of Kieu,' we learn that Kieu was twice forced into the green pavilion, her fate pushing her from one unfortunate situation to another, leading her to despair. But the second time Kieu was pushed into the green pavilion, fortunately Tu Hai suddenly appeared and rescued her from this humiliating situation. Tu Hai helped her 'repay kindness and grudges' with those who had previously harmed her as well as those who had helped her. The two of them had a happy life together. But for a man of great courage, he was not content with such a peaceful life, he wanted to have a great career, so he bid farewell to Kieu and set out. The excerpt 'Heroic Spirit' is taken from lines 2213 to 2230 in the work.

Firstly, the initial four verses depict the context and the reason behind the separation between Kieu and Tu Hai:

'Half a year of passionate love
The stalwart suddenly stirred his heart in all directions
Gazing into the vast sky and ocean
The serene sword mounts the straight path'

The first verse shows us that Kieu and Tu Hai lived together for half a year with an extremely peaceful life, their love fervent and intoxicating. Half a year is a short time for two people to live together, perhaps this is the time when Kieu lived most peacefully and happily during her fifteen years of wandering. Before that, although Kieu also lived with Thuc Sinh, she was only a concubine. Thuc Sinh's love did not bring her complete safety as Kieu was still tormented by Hoan Thu - the principal wife. But after that half year, Tu Hai intended to leave to pursue his ideals. 'The stalwart' refers to a man with determination, a hero, and the author also wants to express admiration and praise for Tu Hai. 'Stirred his heart in all directions' is the direction that Tu Hai wants to dominate the world. That is also the great ambition of a man living in the medieval era, desiring freedom, roaming everywhere, determined to establish an extraordinary career. Tu Hai was extremely resolute and the married life could not hold him back. His posture when leaving is 'The serene sword mounts the straight path,' he alone, with a sword, and a horse, goes straight, resolute. He carries the posture of a confident person, mastering the freedom of the sky. The author placed the character in contrast to the vast space 'the vast sky and ocean' with the image of 'the serene sword mounts the straight path' alone. The image of the person emerges not small but equal to the vast universe. The initial four verses described the happy life of Kieu and Tu along with the heroic determination of the hero.

The Best Impressions of the Heroic Spirit excerpt

The next twelve verses depict the dialogue between Kieu and Tu Hai, through which we also see the character of the hero when embarking on a great career. Kieu's words:

'She said: 'A woman's fate is to obey,'
Even if you take a concubine, I'll still beg to follow'

expressed Kieu's feelings and her understanding and admiration for Tu. The phrase 'A woman's fate is to obey' here is the feudal belief of ancient times: 'The husband rules the wife, the wife follows the husband,' Kieu was willing to bind her life to Tu Hai. Thuy Kieu was aware of the duty of a wife but also showed love for her husband. She wanted to hold onto that love and decided wholeheartedly to follow her husband. In response to Kieu's desire, Tu said:

'Tu said: 'Shared fate and fortune in harmony,
Why are you not yet free from ordinary womanly affairs?'

Tu expressed that now they understood each other, considering her as his soulmate, his confidante. Tu Hai advised Kieu to rise above ordinary female concerns and made his promise: Only when the stars and bells signal her arrival amidst the vast expanse will he be satisfied. Tu painted a beautiful and happy future between them. He wanted to achieve great success and promised to return to welcome her 'like a nobleman'. He asked her to wait for a year as he was unsure of his destination and didn't want her to be burdened. He didn't want Kieu to suffer for him.

The last two lines depict Tu Hai's resolute departure:

'With determined words, he set off
As the wind and clouds reach the distant seas.'

Tu Hai exhibited an unwavering and decisive attitude, strong and without hesitation. The imagery of 'wind and clouds' and 'distant seas' evokes a vast, majestic, and free space for his departure. The metaphor of 'flying birds' symbolizes the hero with noble ideals, extraordinary, comparable to the vastness of the universe. The verse reflects Nguyen Du's dream of a hero with exceptional courage and nobility.