Top 10 essays analyzing the character of An Dương Vương in 'An Dương Vương và Mị Châu - Trọng Thủy'

The treasure trove of Vietnamese folk tales is a place where experiences are distilled and historical values preserved, especially in the genre of legends. Among them, the story of 'An Dương Vương and Mị Châu, Trọng Thủy' stands out, reminding us of the importance of building and defending a nation. This tale also provides insight into a wise, virtuous king—An Dương Vương.

An Dương Vương was the ruler who established the Âu Lạc kingdom. Throughout his life, he achieved remarkable feats that few could accomplish. However, his overconfidence, trust in his son-in-law—an enemy spy—and his arrogance led to the downfall of his life's work, shattering both his kingdom and family.

First, An Dương Vương was a king with both talent and virtue, who valued skilled people, had a broad vision, and was a strategic thinker, earning the support of his people and the divine. He was indeed a ruler with abilities, as he founded the Âu Lạc kingdom—one that he ruled. While there were many talented people in society at the time, few could gather the courage and skill to lead and create their own nation. Without strategic thinking and a virtuous rule, could he have built such an empire?

Furthermore, he demonstrated a far-reaching vision. At that time, the country was a small kingdom in the South, constantly under threat from neighboring powers. Therefore, An Dương Vương sought a land to build a stronghold against enemies. He chose the Phong Khê area, in today's Đông Anh, where he ordered the construction of a sturdy, spiral-shaped citadel, surrounded by deep moats to repel enemy attacks. He also prepared weapons (the magical crossbow) to face threats at any moment. If he were not a wise king with foresight, would he have made such prudent decisions?

Moreover, An Dương Vương was known for his perseverance and determination, even when faced with great difficulty. Legend has it that he ordered the construction of a citadel at Việt Thường, but each time the earth would collapse, and despite the repeated failures and immense effort expended, he persisted. Had he been easily discouraged, would he have continued to rebuild the citadel after so many setbacks? His resolve and responsibility for his nation's safety were clear in his unyielding determination to finish what he started.

Not only was he a man of determination, but he also knew how to value skilled people and respected the wise in society. After several failed attempts at building the citadel, he sought divine intervention, but the results were still unfruitful. It wasn't until an old man from the West arrived and questioned the construction's progress that the king invited him in and asked for advice. If An Dương Vương were not deeply committed to his country and its work, would he have bowed to this stranger? Furthermore, after learning that divine assistance was on the way, he waited patiently at the Eastern gate. Despite being a king, he humbly served his people. When Cao Lỗ, a skilled bowmaker, arrived with the promise of divine help, the king welcomed him into the palace, giving him a special position and entrusting him with the task of creating the magical crossbow. An Dương Vương was a king of talent and virtue, always ready to rely on those who could help protect his nation.

He was also a king with high vigilance, strong fighting spirit, and strategic leadership, always prepared for battle. As a result, he repeatedly defeated Triệu Đà's forces from the North, who sought to conquer Âu Lạc. This success was due to his fortified citadel, constant vigilance, and readiness for combat. In conclusion, An Dương Vương was a wise ruler with military skill, a sense of duty toward his country, and a keen awareness of enemy threats. His wisdom and vigilance won him the support of his people and divine favor in his efforts to build and protect his kingdom.

However, after his victory over a powerful enemy and the construction of the Loa citadel with its formidable weapons, An Dương Vương made critical mistakes that led to the loss of his kingdom and his family's ruin. His overconfidence and negligence toward potential threats were his undoing. After defeating Triệu Đà, he became increasingly arrogant. He believed that the magical crossbow, capable of shooting hundreds of arrows at once, would keep invaders at bay. This arrogance led to the downfall of Âu Lạc, as he failed to recognize the enemy's cunning and let his guard down. When the enemy approached Loa citadel, An Dương Vương remained confident that his magical weapon would keep them at bay, unaware that his son-in-law had swapped the crossbow's bolts.

This arrogance and overconfidence made An Dương Vương neglect the dangers of his enemies. He agreed to Triệu Đà's peace offering without suspecting the ulterior motives behind it. Even worse, he married his daughter to the enemy's son and allowed him to stay at Loa citadel as a son-in-law. His misplaced confidence and negligence ultimately caused the downfall of his kingdom. He trusted his son-in-law, who was the son of his enemy, leading to the tragic loss of the kingdom.

When the situation became irreparable and he was pursued by the enemy, An Dương Vương only fled, unable to face the consequences of his actions. His pride and arrogance had cost him everything. He failed to see the enemy's scheme and misjudged their strength, leading to a heavy defeat. His greatest punishment was the painful necessity of killing his own daughter, the blood of his own blood. This was the most excruciating punishment for the king, who had neglected his vigilance and caused immense suffering for his people. Though later, the god Kim Quy rescued him, guiding him with a magical turtle's horn into the sea, where he disappeared, his immortality marked the end of the Âu Lạc kingdom.

In conclusion, An Dương Vương was a wise and capable ruler with a deep love for his people. He possessed both talent and virtue, and he led his kingdom with intelligence. However, his downfall was brought on by a momentary lapse in vigilance, leading to the loss of everything he had built. His story serves as a great lesson for future generations: always remain vigilant against invaders.

The tragic end of Mị Châu, An Dương Vương's daughter, marked the sorrowful conclusion of the story. It was a fitting punishment for the king, who had lost his kingdom by his own actions. Through the king's immortal image, the people expressed their sorrow and respect for the wise ruler who had once built and protected their land.

An Dương Vương is both a historical figure in ancient Vietnam and a character intertwined with legendary elements. According to legend, the 18th Hung King saw Thục Phan as a talented individual, and with no son of his own, he followed the advice of Sơn Tinh and passed the throne to Thục Phan. After assuming the throne, An Dương Vương moved the capital from the Nghia Linh mountains to the Cổ Loa plain.

This move exemplified the foresight and wisdom of An Dương Vương, as relocating to the plains was essential for the nation's progress. The fertile plains with abundant water were ideal for rice cultivation, and the many rivers facilitated easy transportation. Although mountains could provide protection, the plains offered greater opportunities for growth. By moving the capital, An Dương Vương took a bold step that exposed his kingdom to potential threats from enemies.

Recognizing this vulnerability, An Dương Vương immediately began constructing a defensive citadel in Cổ Loa, despite many obstacles. The project faced numerous setbacks, but the king's determination and patriotism drove him to persevere in the face of challenges, committed to building a stronghold for the nation’s defense.

In his pursuit of divine aid, the king performed rituals, consulted wise individuals, and even invited an elderly man with unusual abilities to the palace. He traveled to meet the Thanh Giang envoy and used a golden chariot to bring the Golden Turtle into the city. With the Golden Turtle’s help, An Dương Vương was able to complete the formidable Loa Citadel to defend against invaders. Yet, the king was aware that even the strongest fortress would not suffice without a powerful weapon, a concern that troubled him after the citadel's construction.

Moved by the king’s devotion, the Golden Turtle presented one of its claws to be used in creating the legendary “Divine Crossbow,” a weapon of immense power. With the help of this weapon and the defensive system known as the Long Citadel, equipped with the “Linh quang Kim thần cơ,” a potent long-range weapon, An Dương Vương defeated the invading forces of Triệu Đà, forcing them to retreat and seek peace. The legend surrounding An Dương Vương’s reign blends historical facts with mythical elements, making the narrative even more enchanting and symbolic.

The inclusion of magical elements, such as the Golden Turtle’s aid and the creation of the Divine Crossbow, highlights the divine approval and support An Dương Vương received. These artistic details reflect the king’s success and the people's admiration for his leadership, symbolizing their pride in the achievements of the Âu Lạc era.

The poet Tố Hữu’s verse resounds:

“ I narrate the story of Mị Châu
Her heart misplaced upon her head
The Divine Crossbow inadvertently handed to the enemy
Thus, the nation’s fortune sank beneath the waves”

This invokes the legendary tale of “An Dương Vương and Mị Châu-Trọng Thủy,” based on historical events. The story leaves a strong impression on readers, depicting An Dương Vương as both a hero and a figure with flaws.

Through the folk author’s pen, An Dương Vương appears as a king devoted to his country. He contributed greatly to founding and defending the nation during the early struggles of Âu Lạc. The king’s clear introduction enhances the credibility of the historical context. His concerns are evident in his thoughts, “As I build the city, it collapses.” His sincerity is shown through his actions, such as “conducting rituals and praying to the gods.” Thanks to the Golden Turtle’s help, the king succeeded in building a solid fortress. This wise ruler earned the trust and support of his people. Beyond concerns for nation-building, An Dương Vương was also deeply committed to safeguarding the peace of his people. The Golden Turtle, moved by his devotion, presented the claw that became the Divine Crossbow to protect the realm. The king’s virtues were vividly portrayed by the folk authors, expressing admiration for his wisdom and integrity.

Every reign has its peaks and troughs, and everyone makes mistakes. The king was overconfident and trusted the enemy, marrying his daughter to the son of Triệu Đà. Was the king hoping to end the war and reconcile the two nations through this marriage? The word “unwittingly” echoes with regret and the people’s forgiveness for his mistake. The enemy, too cunning and deceitful, plotted to take the nation, making it difficult to foresee their malicious tricks.

The king was also a father who loved his daughter dearly, though she was not involved in state affairs. Still, he confided in her. When Triệu Đà’s army attacked a second time, An Dương Vương underestimated the enemy, relying too much on the Divine Crossbow and failing to prepare. When he realized the weapon had been swapped, he lost the city and fled. The king faced the repercussions of his errors in safeguarding the nation.

However, what the king didn’t foresee was that Mị Châu was the traitor, as the Golden Turtle had accused. As a father, he could not bring himself to kill his beloved daughter, but as the king of a nation, her treason was undeniable. When justice called, the king had to act decisively. His love for the country and his duties as a ruler took precedence over his personal feelings. “The king drew his sword and beheaded Mị Châu.” This painful act was one of the harshest punishments he could deliver. The people did not forgive those who betrayed the nation, but due to An Dương Vương’s contributions, the story includes the mythical detail of “leading the king to the sea,” softening the pain of history.

The character of An Dương Vương is portrayed from two angles: as a hero with great contributions to the country and as a figure who betrayed his land. Yet throughout the “An Dương Vương and Mị Châu-Trọng Thủy” narrative, the people’s viewpoint remains steadfast and clear, using mythical elements while retaining historical authenticity.

Among the treasures of folk literature, fairy tales and legends stand as significant historical treasures, passed down through generations by our ancestors. These stories have nourished the written literature that followed. One of the most notable legends is that of An Dương Vương-Mị Châu-Trọng Thủy, reflecting the tragic loss of the nation and the historical awareness of the people. The figure of An Dương Vương imparts profound lessons on the building and preservation of the nation, highlighting his deep patriotism, love for his people, and his far-sighted leadership.

First and foremost, An Dương Vương emerges as a patriotic king, deeply concerned for the future of his nation. Upon ascending the throne, he performed religious rituals and prayers to ensure the successful construction of his city. His concern for the welfare and security of his people, as well as his desire to protect the country, marks him as a wise ruler with a vision that had not yet occurred to previous generations. Furthermore, he demonstrated the ability to recognize and value talent.

When an elder informed the king that the Holy River would assist in building the city, the king sent a golden chariot to warmly welcome the messenger into the city, showing his respect for the wise and skilled individuals who form the backbone of the nation. Valuing and utilizing talented individuals is a demonstration of wise leadership and the ability to develop beneficial policies for governance and national growth. Later, with the help of the Golden Turtle, the king had a divine crossbow created, named the “Linh Quang Kim Quy divine mechanism.”

But the king's generosity didn't stop there; when Triệu Đà came to attack, he cleverly employed the strategy of offering his daughter in marriage to Trọng Thủy to gain information. The king accepted this move to maintain diplomatic relations, reflecting the long-standing tradition of the people’s desire for peace and avoidance of war. With qualities such as patriotism, love for the people, a high sense of responsibility for the nation, far-sightedness, and a compassionate, forgiving nature, An Dương Vương embodied the noble characteristics passed down by our ancestors to great leaders. However, An Dương Vương's downfall came from a failure to remain vigilant and his blind trust in the enemy's nature.

When Triệu Đà launched his second attack, An Dương Vương remained calm, playing chess, overconfident and unprepared for the enemy's cunning. He failed to recognize the deep malice, inherent ambition, and deceitful nature of the invaders, remaining oblivious to the situation and lacking the foresight to analyze it critically.

Through this mistake and blind trust, our ancestors wished to impart to future generations the lessons of national defense, the importance of trust, wisdom, and leadership, particularly for those in power. The sorrow of losing the nation left a painful lesson for the people, reminding us of the ever-relevant value of safeguarding the nation. Even today, the lessons from this story hold immense significance.

Through the figure of An Dương Vương, our ancestors conveyed profound philosophical messages about nation-building and preservation, as well as a desire to create a strong, independent, and self-reliant country.

It is easy to see that among the treasures of folk literature, fairy tales and legends are often regarded as the historical and spiritual values passed down by our ancestors. Among these legends, the story of An Dương Vương-Mị Châu-Trọng Thủy is considered one of the most significant, reflecting the tragic loss of the nation. This story also demonstrates the historical consciousness of the people, and the character of An Dương Vương imparts valuable lessons on nation-building and preservation. Furthermore, his deep patriotism, love for his people, and visionary leadership stand out.

Firstly, readers can observe that An Dương Vương was a king who not only loved his country but also cared deeply for his people and felt responsible for the fate of his nation. Upon ascending the throne, he held a religious ceremony to pray for the happiness and well-being of his people. It is clear that An Dương Vương was a ruler with far-reaching vision, a quality that was ahead of his time and not seen in previous generations.

Moreover, King An Dương Vương demonstrated his wisdom by recognizing and utilizing talented individuals. For instance, when an elder informed the king that the Thanh Giang region would assist in building the city, the king sent a golden chariot to bring the messenger into the city and welcomed him with great respect. This demonstrates that wise rulers, who value and appreciate talent, are seen as farsighted and capable of creating policies beneficial for the governance and development of the nation.

With the help of the Golden Turtle, the king had the divine crossbow made, known as the “Linh Quang Kim Quy divine mechanism.” The king's generosity was further evident when Triệu Đà's forces attacked. Instead of reacting with hostility, the king used diplomacy by allowing Trọng Thủy, Triệu Đà’s son, to marry his daughter Mị Châu. This was in line with the tradition of the people, who have always preferred peace and avoided conflict. An Dương Vương’s qualities—patriotism, care for the people, high responsibility for his nation, far-sightedness, and a compassionate, conciliatory nature—reflect the values that our ancestors wished to see in great leaders.

However, it is important to note that the king lost his vigilance and blindly trusted the enemy. When Triệu Đà launched his second attack, the king remained calm and continued to play chess, overconfident in his own security. His lack of caution towards the enemy's scheming led to his failure to recognize their malice, inherent ambitions, and desire to conquer. This mistake, coupled with his blind trust, became a painful lesson for future generations about the importance of vigilance, wise trust, and the qualities that great leaders must possess.

Through the figure of An Dương Vương, our ancestors left behind profound philosophical messages about nation-building and preservation. These messages also embodied the desire to establish a strong, independent, and self-reliant nation.

The character of An Dương Vương in the work 'Truyện An Dương Vương và Mị Châu – Trọng Thủy' leaves a profound impression on readers. He is depicted as a wise and perceptive king, but a moment of complacency leads to the tragic loss of his kingdom. The tragic fate of the character imparts a deep lesson for future generations.

An Dương Vương was a wise and visionary king, recognized for his far-reaching foresight. He succeeded the Hùng kings and moved the capital from the Nghĩa Lĩnh mountains to the Cổ Loa plain to foster economic and cultural trade. This relocation symbolizes the growing strength of the Âu Lạc state and reflects the king's sharp intellect and leadership abilities.

The process of founding a nation is intertwined with the process of defending it. Upon settling in Cổ Loa, King An Dương Vương immediately set about constructing strong fortifications to defend against foreign invaders. He devised nine concentric walls as a protective shield. However, despite the rapid construction, the walls began to collapse at night, prompting the king to hold a ritual sacrifice and pray for divine assistance. An elderly man from the east appeared, promising help, and the Golden Turtle's intervention confirmed the correctness of the wall construction plan. With the Golden Turtle's guidance, the nine walls were completed, forming a solid fortress to safeguard the kingdom. The imagery of Loa Thành, 'over a thousand feet wide, spiraling like a snail shell,' embodies vigilance and the unyielding resolve of the king and the people of Âu Lạc to defend their nation.

Not only did An Dương Vương demonstrate strategic foresight, but after completing the fortifications, he expressed his concerns to the Golden Turtle: 'Thanks to your divine grace, the walls are built. But if invaders come, how will we defend ourselves?' This worry reflects the perpetual anxiety of the kingdom over the threat of foreign invasion. Gifted with a divine claw by the Golden Turtle, the king immediately crafted the magical crossbow, a symbol of the unwavering determination of the Âu Lạc rulers to repel foreign invaders. Thanks to these preparations, An Dương Vương's forces triumphed over the invasion of the Triệu Đà army, forcing them to retreat to Trâu Sơn, where they built a defensive wall and sought peace. This victory highlighted the immense contributions of An Dương Vương to the establishment and preservation of his kingdom.

However, a moment of inattention and complacency led to the tragic downfall of the kingdom. Triệu Đà, unable to overcome the powerful weapons and fortifications, sought to delay by proposing peace. An Dương Vương, unaware of the deep strategy at play, accepted the proposal. Triệu Đà then requested to marry Mị Châu, An Dương Vương's daughter, to his son, Trọng Thủy. Without suspecting anything, the king agreed to marry his only daughter to the enemy's heir. An Dương Vương had no countermeasures in place. He allowed Trọng Thủy to stay in the capital as part of the Âu Lạc custom. This decision would later become the first key mistake that led to the kingdom's downfall, as it gave the enemy’s spy access to the kingdom's military secrets.

In such a case, Mị Châu, the king's daughter, did not doubt her father's decision, and naively trusted and assisted Trọng Thủy in swapping the magical crossbow. Despite the high level of vigilance previously demonstrated by the king—such as relocating the capital to protect the kingdom from invasion—An Dương Vương fell into complacency. He grew overconfident in his magical crossbow, neglecting to remain alert. When the Triệu Đà army approached, An Dương Vương calmly sat down to play chess, asking, 'Is Đà not afraid of the divine crossbow?' His years of hard work evaporated, as his complacency and negligence allowed the kingdom to fall into enemy hands.

In a desperate attempt to escape, An Dương Vương fled with his daughter Mị Châu, but their situation grew increasingly dire. Trapped between an impending ocean and the pursuing enemy forces, the king cried out in despair for help from Thanh Giang: 'Heaven curses me! Where is Thanh Giang to come to my aid?' The Golden Turtle appeared and pointed out the enemy forces behind them. In a moment of agonizing sorrow, the king was forced to draw his sword and kill his only daughter. This act demonstrated his unyielding resolve, carried out from a standpoint of civic duty, justice, and the nation’s interests. In this tragic moment, An Dương Vương faced two devastating losses: the loss of his kingdom and the loss of his beloved daughter. Though his final act came too late, it served as a sobering lesson for future generations in safeguarding the nation.

After killing Mị Châu, An Dương Vương took the horn of a rhinoceros and returned to the sea. The people immortalized his life, with the mythical detail expressing their feelings of loss and reverence. The people mourned the hero who founded the nation but lost everything due to a moment of carelessness. Though An Dương Vương was guilty, his actions were not intentional, and his life was extended through the people’s remembrance.

In crafting the character of An Dương Vương, the authors utilized numerous mythical elements, such as the assistance of the Golden Turtle and the magical crossbow, to highlight his achievements in building and protecting the kingdom. The tone of the work fluctuates, sometimes celebrating his glory and other times mourning the loss of the nation and his family.

Through the text 'Truyện An Dương Vương và Mị Châu – Trọng Thủy,' the authors have created a portrait of a king who was both a hero and a tragic figure. He achieved greatness by relocating the capital, constructing a stronghold, and strengthening the kingdom. But he also failed by letting his guard down, allowing his nation to fall to the enemy and his people to suffer. This character offers a profound lesson for future generations on the importance of vigilance in the defense of the nation.

Each landmark, each village shrine, and every festival is often linked with a legend, a folk song. In the past, festivals were a very familiar form of community cultural activity. People participated in festivals to satisfy both their spiritual needs (hoping for the well-being of their village and family) and their social needs, connecting with the community. The respectful and reverent attitude of the people is also clearly reflected in rituals, offerings, and festival customs, such as the unique practices associated with the origins, backgrounds, or legendary exploits of the deities worshipped. This is a significant aspect of modernizing the content and methods of teaching folk literature in schools. With this legend, the structure of the plot clearly reveals the artistic intent of the people. The work is divided into two parts that can exist independently, yet are still interconnected. We will analyze the characters' symbolism within the development of the plot to understand the theme. The two-part structure of the legend expresses the ideological message the people wanted to pass on to future generations. The first part is the lesson of nation-building and the victory of An Dương Vương and the Âu Lạc people. The second part addresses the consequences of losing the country due to the mistakes of An Dương Vương and his son. This is a historical truth, but also a deliberate artistic message from the folk author. The lesson of nation-building and victory in the war by An Dương Vương and the Âu Lạc people. An Dương Vương was instrumental in uniting the Văn Lang kingdom with the Âu Việt kingdom to form a stronger, more civilized Âu Lạc. As a leader of a highland tribe, he demonstrated strategic vision and military skills by moving the capital from the mountainous Phong Châu of the Hùng Kings to the plains by the Hồng River in Cổ Loa, Đông Anh, Hanoi (which is very close to the ancient capital of Thăng Long, which would become the capital of the Lý Dynasty a thousand years later, and close to the current capital, Hanoi). The story of An Dương Vương struggling to build the Ốc Citadel (Loa Thành) and eventually receiving help from Thanh Giang (Golden Turtle) to defeat monsters and finish building the city, along with the use of the magical crossbow, is rich in fictional elements and imagination. The great height of the citadel (over a thousand meters, spiraling like a snail shell, hence called Loa Thành), and the magical weapons [a single shot from the divine crossbow could kill thousands of enemies] were why when Triệu Đà's army invaded, they suffered heavy losses and were too afraid to fight, ultimately seeking peace. The intertwining of mythological elements with history makes the story more dazzling and magical, increasing the generalization and symbolic meaning of artistic details. The monster-slaying episode symbolizes the hardships and determination of our ancestors during the early stages of nation-building. The Golden Turtle's claws symbolize the idealized, generalized technique of bronze casting, such as the famous bronze arrows made by Cao Lỗ, who was later worshipped in some regions. Archaeological science, with excavations at Loa Thành in the 1960s and 70s, uncovered many bronze arrows and tools, proving the connection between legend and history. (The Greeks also uncovered the ruins of Troy, buried in the earth, based on clues from the Iliad and Odyssey). The image of the divine crossbow is a recurring motif in myths and fairy tales about heroic figures combating foreign invaders: the iron whip and iron horse of Saint Gióng, Triệu Quang Phục's turtle claws, Lê Lợi's magic sword, the sword of Ông Tú in the Central Highlands legend... The victory came from An Dương Vương’s determination, his perseverance in the task of nation-building, the help from ancestors and nature, and the use of talented generals like Cao Lỗ. With the elements of favorable time, place, and harmony between the people, victory was inevitable. The lesson from the loss of the country, caused by the mistakes of An Dương Vương and his son, focuses on the reflections and deep portrayal of the reasons for their failure. Despite having the high walls, deep moats, and magical weapons, the human element is always the decisive factor. Overconfident, An Dương Vương sought peace with Triệu Đà, and in a careless move, married his daughter Mị Châu to Trọng Thuỷ, Triệu Đà's son. Overconfident in his weapons, An Dương Vương still played chess calmly when Triệu Đà’s forces had nearly surrounded his citadel, jokingly asking, 'Does Đà fear the divine crossbow?' Loa Thành fell, and the king had no choice but to flee south with his beloved daughter. An Dương Vương was a heroic figure in nation-building but also made a grave mistake that history could not forgive. The loss of Âu Lạc plunged the country into a thousand years of Chinese domination, which stemmed from the painful error of the king and his son. An Dương Vương had to endure immense personal suffering: as a king who built a nation, he lost it himself, and as a father, he was forced to kill his beloved daughter. This act not only reflects his tragedy but also highlights the nature of the king. When he realized his mistake, he decided to place the country's interests above family. The people were fair in evaluating the king’s deeds. In the conclusion of the legend, the folk tale did not have An Dương Vương commit suicide at the East Sea as historical accounts suggest. Instead, the Golden Turtle god appeared, offering him a seven-inch turtle horn to guide him down to the sea, merging his spirit with the eternal waters, symbolizing immortality (according to folk belief, a hero who contributed to the nation never dies). This motif of transformation is very familiar in legends about national heroes. While Saint Gióng’s ascension to the heavens has a heroic, grand tone, An Dương Vương’s descent into the sea with the Golden Turtle has a tragic, poignant resonance. An Dương Vương is worshipped in many places across the country, with the largest temple dedicated to him in Cổ Loa (Hanoi). Mị Châu, who appears only in the second part of the story, is directly responsible for the downfall of the country. Many opinions about her character exist, with some condemning her and others defending her. However, we must focus on the artistic details to understand the people's attitude. From the perspective of Confucian morality, which judges women according to the 'three obediences' (obedient to father, husband, and son), Mị Châu is more pitiable than guilty. She was a dutiful daughter, obedient to her father’s wish to marry, and once married, she fully trusted her husband. How could she be blamed for being deceived by her husband? How did the people evaluate her actions? The people took a nationalistic view when assessing her actions. Mị Châu violated the principle of 'national secrets,' placing her personal emotions above national duty, even if she did so naively and unintentionally by allowing Trọng Thuỷ to secretly examine the divine crossbow. If her father’s mistake was the indirect cause, Mị Châu’s naivety and blind love for her husband directly led to the country’s downfall. Her actions were driven by her blind love. The image of her goose-feather coat, used by the people, cleverly symbolizes her blind trust. Trọng Thuỷ switched the crossbow and before returning home asked Mị Châu: 'If war breaks out and the two nations are divided, how will I recognize you?' Mị Châu replied, 'I will leave feathers from my goose coat as a sign.' When Trọng Thuỷ returned home, war broke out, yet Mị Châu naively continued to drop feathers, leading the enemy to her father’s fort. Were the goose feathers, slowly accumulating, not leading her family to their doom? The people’s view was very clear when the Golden Turtle (representing justice) condemned Mị Châu: 'Anyone riding behind the horse is the enemy!' It is important to note that the people referred to Mị Châu as a traitor. They did not judge her based on the usual Confucian moral standards, but from the perspective of national duty. She committed an unforgivable crime against the country. The people allowed Mị Châu to die at the hands of her father’s sword. However, the people’s attitude was both logical and compassionate. If there is guilt, it must be paid for, but the tragic fate needs to be resolved. Mị Châu’s final prayer, before her execution, is a reflection of her tragic fate: 'If I, as a woman, have betrayed my father, I will turn into dust. But if I was deceived by others, I will turn into pearls to cleanse the shame.' Mị Châu’s blood flowed into the sea, and oysters that consumed it turned into pearls. The prayer was fulfilled. The people’s justice was severe but compassionate, and the tragic fate of Mị Châu was mitigated by the people’s profound imagination. Some versions of the story say that after her death, Mị Châu’s blood flowed into the sea, and oysters turned into pearls. Her body became a stone in the shape of a headless girl, drifting down the river to the ancient Loa region. The locals recognized it as a sacred stone and built a shrine for Mị Châu near the temple of An Dương Vương. Today, visitors to the Cổ Loa festival in Đông Anh, Hanoi, can pay respects at the shrine of Mị Châu. In the small temple, surrounded by incense, the statue of the headless princess, wearing royal robes and adorned with pearls, serves as a poignant reminder of the painful history of losing the nation and the tragic fate of Princess Mị Châu. The motif of turning to stone because of injustice and despair is common in folk stories. In the 'Betel and Areca Nut' legend, Lang, the younger brother falsely accused by his elder brother, weeps by the river, exhausted, and turns to stone. Similarly, Vọng Phu, a woman waiting for her husband, turns to stone in deep, agonizing despair. These beautiful artistic motifs carry a profound message of the enduring, shining compassion of the people. The lesson of defending the country and this tragic love story has continued to inspire later generations. The story of An Dương Vương and Mị Châu – Trọng Thuỷ is a typical legend about the fortification and defense of the Thục Phán kingdom. When recalling this legend, we cannot forget An Dương Vương.

The character of An Dương Vương in the work *Truyện An Dương Vương và Mị Châu - Trọng Thủy* leaves a profound impression on readers. He is portrayed as a wise and sagacious king, but due to one moment of carelessness, he leads his nation to a tragic downfall. The tragic fate of this character offers a valuable lesson for generations to come.

An Dương Vương was a king known for his wisdom and foresight. He succeeded the Hùng kings and moved the capital from Nghĩa Lĩnh Mountain to Cổ Loa to promote economic and cultural exchange. This relocation reflected the growing power of the Âu Lạc kingdom, as well as the sharp intelligence and sound judgment of An Dương Vương.

The process of nation-building was inseparable from the need to defend the nation. As soon as he arrived at Cổ Loa, An Dương Vương ordered the construction of a stronghold to protect against foreign invaders. The king relied on artificial protection in the form of nine layers of walls. However, as soon as the building began, the walls collapsed at night. In response, the king performed a ritual and prayed to the gods. An old man from the East appeared and predicted that help would come. The Golden Turtle's assistance in completing the walls confirmed the wisdom of the king's decision. With the help of the Golden Turtle, the nine walls were soon completed, creating a solid defense for the kingdom. The walls of Cổ Loa, 'more than a thousand feet wide, spiraling like a snail's shell,' symbolized the king’s vigilance and the people’s unwavering determination to protect the nation from invaders.

Not only did he demonstrate foresight in building the walls, but he also expressed concern about future threats. After the completion of the walls, he confided in the Golden Turtle, 'Thanks to your divine assistance, the walls are complete. But if enemies come, how will we defend ourselves?' This worry reflected the constant threat of foreign invasion. The Golden Turtle gave him a claw, and An Dương Vương immediately created the divine crossbow, a weapon that symbolized the determination of the king and his people to resist invaders. Thanks to this preparation, the army of An Dương Vương achieved a great victory, defeating the invading forces of Triệu Đà, who were forced to retreat and beg for peace. This victory highlighted the significant role and contributions of An Dương Vương in the early stages of nation-building and defense.

However, due to a moment of negligence, An Dương Vương succumbed to the tragedy of losing his kingdom. Triệu Đà, unable to confront the powerful crossbow and nine layers of walls, decided to delay by seeking peace. An Dương Vương, unaware of the devious plot, agreed. Triệu Đà proposed a marriage alliance between his son, Trọng Thủy, and An Dương Vương’s daughter, Mị Châu. Without suspicion, the king agreed to marry off his only daughter to the enemy's son, failing to anticipate the consequences. An Dương Vương unknowingly created an opportunity for the spy, disguised as a son-in-law, to uncover the nation’s military secrets.

The king's daughter, Mị Châu, did not question her father's judgment, and she naïvely trusted Trọng Thủy, assisting him in swapping the divine crossbow. Despite being cautious in the past—relocating the capital to avoid invasion and preparing strong defenses—the king grew complacent, trusting the crossbow and neglecting to be vigilant. As Triệu Đà’s forces advanced, An Dương Vương remained calm, playing chess and asking, 'Are you not afraid of the divine crossbow?' In that moment, his years of struggle and hard work were undone by his own overconfidence, allowing the enemy to seize his kingdom.

An Dương Vương fled with his daughter, Mị Châu, in a desperate situation. With the enemy closing in, the king found himself at the brink of despair. He called out to Thanh Giang's envoy for help: 'Heaven has forsaken me. Where is Thanh Giang’s envoy to save us?' The Golden Turtle appeared and pointed out the enemy’s forces pursuing them. Although heartbroken, An Dương Vương had no choice but to draw his sword and kill his beloved daughter. This act demonstrated his resoluteness and his willingness to make a painful sacrifice for the good of the nation. An Dương Vương faced two tragedies at once: the loss of his kingdom and the death of his own daughter. His decision, though tragic, served as a poignant reminder and a lesson for future generations about the importance of safeguarding the nation.

After killing Mị Châu, An Dương Vương carried a seven-inch rhino horn back to the sea. The people immortalized his life, and the magical element in the story reflects the people's affection and attitude. The people mourned for the hero who had helped build the nation but lost everything due to a moment of carelessness. Though An Dương Vương had committed a grave mistake, it was unintentional, and his life was extended as a result.

In constructing the character of An Dương Vương, the authors employed various magical elements, such as the Golden Turtle's assistance and the divine crossbow, to highlight the king’s achievements in the defense of the nation. The tone of the work is rich, alternating between praise and sorrow for the king’s fall from grace and the loss of his kingdom.

Through *Truyện An Dương Vương và Mị Châu – Trọng Thủy*, the folk authors created a portrait of a king who was both a hero and a flawed leader. He was heroic in his efforts to relocate the capital, build a strong city, and strengthen the kingdom. However, he was also at fault for letting down his guard, leading to the downfall of the nation and the suffering of the people. This character offers a profound lesson about building and defending a nation, emphasizing the need for constant vigilance against threats.

Reminding us of the legendary story of “An Dương Vương and Mị Châu- Trọng Thủy”, which is based on historical events, the tale leaves a lasting impression on readers with the character of An Dương Vương, who is both a hero and someone who has committed a grave mistake.

Through the vivid portrayal by the folk author, An Dương Vương appears as a ruler fully devoted to his country. He played a key role in establishing and defending the state during the most difficult early days of Âu Lạc. The clear introduction of the king’s lineage enhances the authenticity of the historical elements. The king’s concern, his deep worries, when “the city was being built but crumbling as it did,” highlights his sincerity, exemplified by his act of “creating an altar, praying to the gods.” With the help of the Golden Turtle, the king was able to build a solid fortress. Such a wise ruler earned the respect and support of his people. Not only was An Dương Vương worried about the founding of his country, but he also felt deeply responsible for its defense, for the peace and well-being of the people. The Golden Turtle, moved by this sincerity, gifted him the claw to craft a divine crossbow to protect the land. The folk author beautifully emphasizes the king's virtues, illustrating the admiration felt for his wisdom and virtue.

The character of An Dương Vương is constructed from two perspectives: as a national hero and as a ruler who made a critical mistake. However, throughout the “An Dương Vương and Mị Châu- Trọng Thủy” tale, the people’s viewpoint remains steadfast and clear-eyed, using magical details while maintaining historical accuracy.

Despite building the Cổ Loa citadel several times, An Dương Vương struggled with constant collapses. Thanks to divine intervention, he finally succeeded in building the fortifications. The tale of this supernatural assistance serves to emphasize An Dương Vương’s patriotism and dedication to protecting his land. However, the king’s moment of complacency also reveals his weakness.

The king’s failure to detect the true nature of Triệu Đà illustrates his lack of vigilance. Triệu Đà, not only seeking to conquer Âu Lạc, also had his son Trọng Thủy marry Mị Châu to turn the people of Âu Lạc into the subjects of the North. Trọng Thủy deceived Mị Châu, spying on the sacred crossbow and plotting to swap it. Mị Châu unwittingly revealed the national secret, exposing the country’s greatest weapon. When Triệu Đà invaded, An Dương Vương, relying on the divine crossbow, calmly played chess, saying, “Does Đà not fear the divine crossbow?” This shows that the king, overconfident in his weapons, failed to recognize the constant need for vigilance against any threat. As a result, the country swiftly fell into the tragedy of losing the nation and the royal family.

This story serves as a contemporary lesson on the importance of safeguarding a nation. The creative inclusion of the Golden Turtle, Mị Châu, and the king’s tragic act of killing his own daughter conveys a message of fairness in evaluating history. The Golden Turtle – a symbol of the nation – helped the king build the fortress and craft the crossbow, representing the wisdom, creativity, and tireless efforts of our ancestors in the defense of the country. The Golden Turtle calls Mị Châu a traitor because, with her misplaced heart, she is responsible for the nation’s downfall, and must be punished by her own father, as the head of state. This emphasizes the people’s unwavering stance on any action that harms the interests of the nation.

The fall of Âu Lạc is primarily the responsibility of An Dương Vương. Though he had a great role in building and defending the country, his complacency and underestimation of the enemy led to a national, familial, and personal tragedy. When disaster struck, An Dương Vương prioritized the country over his family, placing the ruler-subject relationship above the father-daughter bond (killing Mị Châu). The Golden Turtle guided the king into the sea, preventing him from dying and keeping the enemy from seizing his body. This detail symbolizes the national pride, showing the people’s respect and sympathy for An Dương Vương, even though he was responsible for the loss of the country. It is a fair judgment from our ancestors.

“The Legend of An Dương Vương and Mị Châu - Trọng Thủy” is one of the most outstanding legends in Vietnam’s literary history, focusing on the theme of fighting to protect the nation. The story is a creative blend of mythology and historical facts surrounding the real-life figure of An Dương Vương. Through this tale, we learn that An Dương Vương was a king who made great contributions to building fortresses and protecting his people, but his overconfidence ultimately led to the country falling into the hands of enemies.

An Dương Vương was first and foremost a king who loved his country and his people. He had great foresight and played a major role in constructing fortresses and ramparts. He took on new historical missions; uniting the country with a common culture and territory; establishing a fledgling state and fighting foreign invaders. He stands as a symbol of ancient Vietnamese heroism. The construction of the Cổ Loa fortress shows the vision of a brilliant military strategist and the heart of a ruler who deeply cared about the fate of his people and the peace of the nation. This also reflects his intention to build a feudal state, with a central capital that would address major national affairs. This achievement was monumental, considering that under the Hùng kings, Vietnam was organized into tribes and lacked fortifications.

An Dương Vương was also a king committed to building and protecting the country, and he knew how to rely on talented individuals. The construction of the fort faced many difficulties, so the king was anxious and held a ritual to pray for divine assistance. When an elderly man from the East appeared and spoke of the construction, the king was overjoyed and honored him. Later, when the Golden Turtle appeared, the king used a golden cart to bring it into the fortress. After the fortress was completed and three years had passed, An Dương Vương again worried about the possibility of invasion and asked the Golden Turtle how to defend against invaders. His question, “Now, with foreign invaders, what can we use to defend?” shows that he was a king who deeply cared for his people and the future of the nation.

However, after the invention of the divine crossbow that could easily repel the invading forces of Triệu Đà, the king became overconfident and underestimated his enemies. His first mistake, which indirectly led to the loss of Âu Lạc, was marrying his daughter, Mị Châu, to Trọng Thủy, the son of Triệu Đà, and allowing Trọng Thủy to live with them as a son-in-law. The king had no idea that this marriage concealed a political plot to annex the country. His first mistake led to Mị Châu’s second mistake. After marrying Trọng Thủy, she foolishly trusted her husband, unaware that she was being manipulated and used as a pawn in a political game. The king’s second mistake occurred when Triệu Đà launched a second invasion. Relying on the divine crossbow, An Dương Vương calmly played chess until the enemy forces approached, only to discover that the trigger for the crossbow had been stolen—this directly led to the loss of the country. His overreliance on the divine crossbow caused him to neglect building a strong military and uniting the people to fight against foreign invaders.

In the end, however, An Dương Vương remained a king who prioritized national interests over family ties. Despite Mị Châu being his only daughter, when the Golden Turtle accused her of being an enemy, the king drew his sword and executed her, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the fate of the nation. This moment reveals the king’s late awakening, and it was also the price he had to pay for his own overconfidence.

Through these mythical details, the people of Vietnam have expressed their admiration, gratitude, and pride in the king. Firstly, they honored him as the first king to initiate the construction of fortifications to protect the nation, symbolizing the growing consciousness of the time of An Dương Vương. The divine assistance of the Golden Turtle is a metaphor for the support of the people, representing the mysterious strength of the nation. And when the country fell to invaders, An Dương Vương held a buffalo horn and sailed into the vast ocean. The people immortalized him as a hero to express their feelings and views, correcting history according to their perspective, building the ideal hero to serve as a model for future generations' education.

Thus, An Dương Vương emerges as a hero who made great contributions to the construction of fortifications and the defense of his country, but he was also a king whose overconfidence led to the tragic loss of the nation. Through the creation of this character and the inclusion of mythical details, the legend “The Legend of An Dương Vương and Mị Châu - Trọng Thủy” imparts a profound educational lesson: the importance of safeguarding the nation alongside its construction, always remaining vigilant and wary of the enemy.