Top 10 Essays Analyzing the Character of Thuy Kieu in the Excerpt 'The Sisters Thuy Kieu' by Nguyen Du

The brilliance of Nguyen Du's masterpiece *The Tale of Kieu* is not only in its deep, humanistic content but also in the artist’s unparalleled mastery of portraying characters. This is most vividly seen in the excerpt 'The Sisters Thuy Kieu', where the creation of Thuy Kieu’s character stands out as one of the most remarkable aspects.

The first four lines serve as an introduction to two stunningly beautiful daughters of the Vương family, setting them apart as embodiments of natural beauty. Through symbolism and metaphor, the beauty of Thuy Kieu and Thuy Van is depicted as pure and elegant, akin to the plum blossom and snow, symbols of nature’s purity. Nguyen Du presents these young women with brevity but great affection and respect:

'The grace of plum blossoms, the spirit of snow,
Each with her own unique beauty, flawless in every way.'

Their beauty is both external and internal. After the introduction, the portrait of Thuy Van emerges. Through classic poetic techniques and a rich vocabulary, the next four lines craft an image of Thuy Van as pure, innocent, and effortlessly graceful, blending harmoniously with the world around her.

Her beauty is that of a gentle, innocent woman, untainted by the world, evident in every detail from her face to her smile and voice. But Nguyen Du’s artistic focus shifts to Thuy Kieu. While Thuy Van's beauty is unsurpassed, Thuy Kieu appears, and she becomes the central figure, her beauty and talent overshadowing all. Just two lines:

'Kieu is sharper and more captivating,
Her talent and beauty surpass the rest.'

This serves as a poetic lever, elevating Thuy Kieu both in talent and beauty in the eyes of the reader. At this point, the poet shifts from outward appearance to delve deeper into Thuy Kieu's intellect and personality, describing her sharpness and elegance, qualities that could captivate the world. In contrast to Thuy Van’s humble beauty, Thuy Kieu's allure is intense, stirring envy: 'Flowers pale in comparison, willows fade in color.'

In olden times, it was said that one sister was 'beauty within gentleness' while the other was 'beauty that transcends divinity'. External beauty may be striking, but what stands out most is the character and talent of the person. The poet masterfully uses parallel structures to highlight the extreme balance of Thuy Kieu's beauty and talent:

'The grace of plum blossoms / the spirit of snow
Clouds pale before the hair, snow yields to her skin
The beauty of autumn’s water, the elegance of spring’s mountain
Flowers pale in comparison, willows fade in color
Beauty demands one, talent excels two.'

Moreover, Nguyen Du spares no praise for Thuy Kieu, using expressions that convey absolute value: 'Intelligence is a natural gift', 'Mastery of poetry and painting, perfection in music and singing'. The words and images, carefully crafted and contrasted, give rise to a dignified rhythm that elevates Thuy Kieu's beauty and talent.

Though Thuy Van and Thuy Kieu have different forms of beauty, the method of portrayal is identical. The poet uses metaphors and imagery—autumn water, spring mountain, moon-like face, graceful features, snowy skin—to build the image of Thuy Kieu, showcasing her brilliance and talent to the point where 'flowers pale' and 'willows fade'. In this excerpt, Thuy Kieu’s intellectual and artistic prowess is ultimately what commands respect.

In conclusion, this short yet meticulously crafted passage, with its perfect structure and expert use of imagery, encapsulates the essence of the characters. It masterfully reveals the characters' outer beauty, inner strength, and foreshadows their respective fates: Thuy Van’s life will be untouched by adversity, while Thuy Kieu will face a tragic destiny.

In the poem *To Nguyen Du*, the poet To Huu writes:

'Whose poetry shakes the heavens and the earth,
It sounds like mountains and rivers echoing for a thousand years.'

In the millennium to come, we will still remember Nguyen Du,
His verses like a mother’s lullaby to soothe the soul...'

Nguyen Du is a literary genius of our nation. *The Tale of Kieu* is a masterpiece of classical Vietnamese literature, illuminating the spirit of humanism. Artistically, this poem is a perfect example of the language, the depiction of nature, people, emotions, and storytelling, offering the Vietnamese people immense literary pleasure.

The excerpt introducing the sisters Thuy Kieu is one of the most beautiful and eloquent in *The Tale of Kieu*. Thuy Kieu is the central character of the poem, a girl of unparalleled beauty and talent, masterfully portrayed by the great poet. The passage consists of 24 lines: the first 4 lines introduce the two sisters as the elegant daughters of the Vương family; the next 4 describe Thuy Van’s beauty; the following 12 depict both the beauty and talent of Thuy Kieu; and the final 4 lines celebrate the virtues of both sisters. Thuy Kieu and Thuy Van possess an ethereal, angelic beauty, pure and flawless like 'plum' and 'snow', each with her own distinct charm:

'The grace of plum blossoms, the spirit of snow,
Each with her unique beauty, perfect in every way.'

Thuy Van’s beauty is that of a graceful and dignified young woman, possessing an aristocratic elegance: her face is full and radiant like the moon, her eyes like phoenixes, and her smile as bright as flowers. Her voice is as pure as jade. And how could one not admire her hair and skin? - 'The clouds pale in comparison to her hair, the snow yields to her skin'. The poet uses symbolic techniques to describe Thuy Van’s beauty, creating vivid, metaphorical imagery. By describing Thuy Van first, then Thuy Kieu, Nguyen Du highlights Thuy Kieu’s extraordinary beauty:

'Kieu is even sharper and more captivating,
Her talent and beauty surpass the rest.'

Thuy Kieu’s beauty is so stunning that it could 'tilt rivers and collapse cities'. Her eyes are clear and bright like autumn water, her eyebrows delicate like spring hills, radiating a gentle, vibrant beauty that makes 'flowers envy her redness, willows pale in comparison'. The poet’s portrayal of her character is both transformative and multifaceted, employing metaphors, personification, and subtle references to ancient poetic conventions to evoke a sense of enchantment. The image of this beautiful woman is captured in just a few delicate brushstrokes, but it leaves the reader with profound admiration:

'Her beauty is like autumn water, her grace like spring hills.
Flowers pale in comparison, willows wither in shame.
She tilts rivers, she collapses cities.'

The Creator seems to have bestowed upon Kieu all of nature’s gifts. 'Beauty demands one, talent excels two.' Her innate intelligence, her extraordinary talents in poetry, painting, and music set her apart: she excels in all the arts, surpassing all others:

'Intelligence is a gift from heaven,
Mastering poetry, painting, and song, she excels in them all.
Her musical skills surpass the finest lutes.'

Nguyen Du does not hold back in praising Thuy Kieu, using expressions that emphasize her absolute excellence: 'A gift from heaven', 'Master of all arts', 'Surpassing even the best'.

When describing Thuy Kieu’s beauty and talent, the poet not only celebrates her present splendor but also hints at her future fate. Her exquisite beauty, which 'flowers envy and willows pale in comparison', foreshadows the 'tragic fate' that she will one day endure, as her beauty and talent will bring her inevitable sorrow, as echoed in the lines: 'The heavens are accustomed to striking down the beautiful.'... 'Talent comes with misfortune'... For nearly two centuries, this portrait of Thuy Kieu, as depicted in the excerpt *The Sisters Thuy Kieu*, has left a lasting impression in the hearts of millions of Vietnamese people. It represents the true genius of Nguyen Du in character portrayal.

Virtue is the root of human character. Thuy Kieu not only possesses beauty and talent but also exemplary morality. She was raised with the highest standards of education, embodying the Confucian ideals of virtue, propriety, and family values. Despite being from a life of luxury, nearing the age of marriage, she is a model of grace and integrity:

'She sits serenely, the curtain drawn,
Bees and butterflies flutter by, indifferent to her.'

In conclusion, Thuy Kieu is a remarkably beautiful figure in *The Tale of Kieu*. Nguyen Du, with his humanitarian spirit and extraordinary poetic talent, captures Thuy Kieu in the most beautiful verses of classical Vietnamese literature. His affection and respect for this character are evident in his writing. By blending symbolic techniques, creative imagery, and poetic precision, Nguyen Du paints a portrait of a literary heroine that remains one of the finest in Vietnamese literary history.

Though Thuy Kieu comes from an aristocratic background, under Nguyen Du’s genius, she appears with all the qualities that reflect the very essence of Vietnamese culture. Her beauty, represented through the lens of humanism, stands as a testament to the depth of *The Tale of Kieu*.

In the excerpt 'The Sisters Thuy Kieu' by Nguyen Du, we see not only the captivating beauty of Thuy Kieu, whose appearance is said to make rivers and cities tremble, but also a woman of extraordinary intellect and profound inner beauty. Through Nguyen Du's exquisite verses, we uncover not only her external allure but also her rich, sensitive soul.

Nguyen Du masterfully uses poetic lines to describe Thuy Kieu’s beauty:

'Kieu is even sharper and more alluring,
Her talent and beauty surpass all others.
Her eyes like autumn waters, her brows like spring hills,
Flowers pale in envy, willows wither in shame.'

Although her appearance isn’t described as fully detailed as Thuy Van’s, just her eyes are enough to convey the rare and unparalleled beauty of Thuy Kieu. This is a testament to Nguyen Du’s genius. He uses metaphorical imagery to describe her eyes as 'autumn water' and her brows as 'spring hills', evoking a clear, serene, and deep inner world. Thuy Kieu’s beauty surpasses nature itself, the 'sharp and exquisite' beauty described by Nguyen Du suggests an idealized, almost divine perfection.

The use of 'envy' and 'resentment' in describing the natural world hints at the turbulent fate awaiting Kieu. It’s as if nature itself feels threatened by her beauty. This prefigures the hardships and tragedies that will define her future life. Thuy Kieu is not only physically stunning but also a woman of exceptional talent, rarely seen throughout history:

'Intelligence is a gift from heaven,
Mastering poetry, painting, and song.'

Her talents reach the highest levels of the classical Confucian ideal of 'cello, chess, poetry, and painting'. Among them, her skill in playing the lute stands out as her most exceptional ability, unmatched by anyone else: 'Her art surpasses even the best lute player.' While this particular skill isn’t fully displayed in this excerpt, Nguyen Du emphasizes her musical genius in other sections, describing her as creating haunting melodies: 'The lute plays under the moon, the moves are as delicate as petals.'

Her music carries a sorrowful, melancholic tone that evokes deep sympathy. The songs she creates seem to speak of the sorrowful fate of women, foreshadowing Kieu’s own tragic life. Reflecting on her life, after enduring countless trials, Thuy Kieu herself acknowledges her fate:

'This is the tune of my tragic fate,
Played on the lute from the days of my youth,
Choosing the chords from my past,
And the mirror of my fate is now before me.'

Nguyen Du’s portrayal of Thuy Kieu is a generous tribute to her beauty, intellect, and spirit. She embodies the tragic fate of women in ancient society, possessing both beauty and intellect, yet doomed by the rigid, unforgiving social order. Nguyen Du, with deep empathy, often laments her fate: 'The beautiful are often the target of envy and jealousy.' The poet To Huu also expressed his sympathy for Kieu’s life, writing:

'I pity Kieu, as if she represents the plight of our people,
Beauty and talent, yet so full of suffering.'

Thuy Kieu’s portrait is primarily created through symbolic imagery, comparing her to the natural world. Yet, her beauty transcends even these comparisons, showing her as a flawless work of creation. Through dynamic, expressive language such as 'envy', 'resentment', and 'exquisite', Nguyen Du elevates Thuy Kieu’s beauty to a level that transcends mere physical description.

This excerpt showcases Nguyen Du’s refined, artistic talent, cementing his place as a master of character depiction. His portrayal of Kieu is not merely about her appearance but emphasizes her beauty and intellect. These verses also foreshadow her tragic fate, a life full of hardships, reflecting Nguyen Du’s deep respect for the beauty and worth of women.

The masterpiece *The Tale of Kieu* by the great poet Nguyen Du stands out not only for its captivating plot and profound content but also for its immense artistic value. Among the many artistic elements, one that shines through is Nguyen Du’s ability to portray human characters, particularly in the excerpt 'The Sisters Thuy Kieu'.

In this passage, Nguyen Du masterfully paints the image of Thuy Kieu, presenting her as a flawless beauty both externally and internally, a person whose elegance and inner grace surpasses any other. With immense skill, the poet first describes Thuy Van in detail, using her beauty as a backdrop to enhance Thuy Kieu’s radiance:

'Kieu is even more exquisite and alluring,
Her beauty demands one, her talent demands two.'

In these lines, Nguyen Du employs a delicate and sophisticated style of symbolism to convey not just a beautiful girl, but one whose brilliance encapsulates the essence of all beauty. It’s as if the poet holds a deep affection for Kieu, portraying her not only as the epitome of beauty but as someone with an equally remarkable inner world — a person who embodies filial piety, grace, and virtue.

Through his poetic genius, Nguyen Du portrays Thuy Kieu with eyes as clear and serene as autumn waters. These eyes, gentle and captivating, pull in anyone who gazes upon them. Coupled with her delicate, full eyebrows, which resemble the peaks of spring mountains, Thuy Kieu’s beauty is not only external but also reflects the purity and vibrancy of her soul. Her appearance exudes a youthful energy filled with dreams for the future.

Yet, this beautiful image also hints at the hardships to come — a life marked by fifteen years of wandering and turmoil. Kieu’s beauty is so overwhelming that 'flowers pale in envy, and willows wither in shame', signifying how nature itself feels inferior to her charm. Even the natural world, in its grandeur, feels humbled by her presence.

Nguyen Du uses the most refined and poetic language to describe Kieu’s extraordinary beauty — a beauty that seems almost too perfect, foreshadowing the misfortunes that await her. The famous saying 'A beauty is doomed to misfortune' rings true, as Kieu’s radiant beauty might inevitably lead her toward a life of sorrow and struggle.

Through the portrait of Thuy Kieu, the reader not only witnesses her unparalleled beauty but also understands that such beauty often comes at a heavy price. Her beauty, though extraordinary, foreshadows the obstacles she will face as a woman of both grace and talent in a world full of challenges.

One of the standout features of *The Tale of Kieu* is its exceptional artistry in character portrayal. When discussing character descriptions, one cannot ignore Nguyen Du’s unique ability to describe people, particularly the beauty of Thuy Kieu and her sister Thuy Van in the excerpt *The Sisters Thuy Kieu*. The poet’s focus on Thuy Kieu’s beauty, which outshines any other, is what makes this passage so powerful.

The first four lines briefly introduce the two sisters, Thuy Kieu and Thuy Van, offering an objective first impression:

'The elder sister, Thuy Kieu, the younger Thuy Van,
With beauty as pure as the plum blossom and spirit as serene as snow.'

Using symbolic language, the poet paints an image of grace, purity, and elegance for both sisters: 'Their forms are like the plum blossom, their spirits like the snow.' This symbolizes their perfect, flawless beauty, both in appearance and spirit. Each sister, though equally perfect, carries her own unique charm. The first line, 'Kieu is even more exquisite and alluring,' reveals that Kieu’s beauty surpasses Thuy Van’s not just in looks, but also in character.

To fully capture Kieu’s beauty, Nguyen Du uses twelve lines, each laden with imagery:

'Kieu is even more exquisite and alluring,
Her beauty surpasses all others.
Her eyes are like autumn waters, her brows like spring mountains,
Flowers envy her radiance, willows wither in shame.'

The poet uses elegant metaphors — 'autumn waters', 'spring mountains', 'flowers', and 'willows' — to illustrate Kieu’s ethereal beauty. Most notably, he highlights her eyes, describing them as 'autumn waters' — clear, bright, and sparkling — and her brows like 'spring mountains' — gentle yet strong. These eyes are not only beautiful but serve as windows to Kieu’s soul, reflecting her intelligence and depth.

Rather than describing Kieu directly, Nguyen Du focuses on how others perceive her, evoking feelings of jealousy, admiration, and longing in nature itself, showing that her beauty has a magnetic, almost mystical pull. Kieu's beauty hints at her inner qualities — intelligence, talent, and sensitivity. Where Thuy Van’s beauty is merely physical, Kieu’s beauty is enriched by her talents, which shine through the lines:

'Born with a natural brilliance,
Her talents range from the arts to the poetic.'
'She excels in the music of the five tones,
Her art outshines all others.'

Kieu’s talents, especially her mastery of the lute, are portrayed as exceptional. Her ability to compose music that speaks to the heart is a testament to her depth of feeling. Her *Bạc Mệnh* (Tragic Fate) pieces express the sorrow of her life, filled with pathos and sensitivity:

'The melody she plays weaves tales of fate,
Her song, a reflection of heartache.'

Through Kieu’s portrait, Nguyen Du shows not only a stunning beauty but also a character marked by great intelligence and depth, qualities that inevitably lead to tragic outcomes. The poet’s portrayal of her reflects the age-old belief that 'beauty and talent often bring misfortune', as Kieu's fate is bound by the paradox of 'talent and destiny being at odds'. Kieu’s life, full of hardship and turmoil, reflects the truth in the saying 'a beautiful woman’s life is marked by tragedy.'

In summary, the passage brilliantly demonstrates Nguyen Du’s remarkable skill in character portrayal, highlighting the beauty, talent, and fate of Thuy Kieu. The poet masterfully uses symbolic imagery to create a multifaceted character whose beauty is both a blessing and a curse, setting her apart from Thuy Van, who is portrayed with fewer lines and less depth.

The excerpt 'The Sisters Thuy Kieu' from the epic *The Tale of Kieu* by the great poet Nguyen Du showcases the detailed portraits of the two sisters, with a particular focus on Thuy Kieu. Her beauty is a perfect harmony of grace, talent, and virtue, yet it remains confined by the old societal belief that 'beauty brings misfortune.'

After briefly introducing the two sisters and Thuy Van's distinct beauty, Nguyen Du uses Thuy Van’s beauty as a backdrop to emphasize Thuy Kieu’s incomparable charm:

'Kieu is even more exquisite and alluring...
Her beauty calls for one, her talent adds to two.'

Just like the depiction of Thuy Van, Nguyen Du uses comparisons, metaphors, and symbols. He draws upon natural imagery to highlight Kieu’s beauty, portraying it as something beyond the limits of nature itself. The poet places special emphasis on Kieu’s eyes, which are considered the window to the soul and represent both intellect and inner beauty. The metaphor 'autumn waters' evokes an image of clear, sparkling eyes, while 'spring mountains' describes her graceful brows.

Indeed, Kieu’s beauty is so extraordinary that it evokes jealousy from nature itself, suggesting that her beauty transcends all natural boundaries. Her beauty’s power is such that it could 'tilt the waters and overthrow the city,' an unmatched force that defies comparison. 'Her beauty alone calls for one, and her talent adds another dimension,' confirming that Kieu’s allure is unique and unparalleled. But beyond her physical beauty, Kieu is an exceptionally intelligent and talented young woman:

'Born with a brilliance bestowed by the heavens...
Her tragic fate resonates deeply with the heart.'

Nguyen Du elevates Kieu’s intelligence and talents to divine levels, emphasizing her mastery of everything she touches. Phrases like 'naturally gifted', 'mastering all arts', and 'surpassing all others' reflect this. According to the Confucian ideal of beauty, Kieu excels in all the refined arts: music, poetry, calligraphy, and painting. The poet focuses especially on her musical talent, with Kieu composing pieces that capture the sorrow of her fate, such as her composition 'Bạc Mệnh', a melody that expresses deep, complex emotions.

'The piece she composed tells of a fate full of sorrow,
Her melody brings tears to the heart.'

By showcasing Kieu’s exceptional talent, Nguyen Du highlights her deep sensitivity and complex emotional world. This portrayal of Kieu’s beauty and abilities, however, foreshadows the tragic course of her life. The poet’s genius lies in his ability to create a portrait that reflects both Kieu’s outer beauty and inner qualities while subtly hinting at her unfortunate destiny. While he emphasizes her stunning looks, talents, and intellectual prowess, he also weaves a sense of foreboding about the hardships that lie ahead in her life.

For a long time, "The Tale of Kieu" by the great national poet Nguyen Du has been regarded as a unique work, marking a significant leap in both content and art in the 18th century Nôm poetry. While "The Tale of Kieu" is based on the Chinese novel "Kim Van Kieu Truyen" by Thanh Tam Tai Nhan, Nguyen Du's artistic intentions, philosophical ideas, and creative artistry in "The Tale of Kieu" take fresh and innovative strides, deeply imbuing the work with humanistic and profound values. One of Nguyen Du's remarkable artistic innovations that contribute to the success of the work is his skillful portrayal of characters. This is vividly and clearly demonstrated in the excerpt "The Sisters Thuy Kieu" through the depiction of Kieu's beauty and talent.

The excerpt appears at the beginning of the work, introducing Kieu's family background. When introducing the members of Kieu's family, the author focuses on describing the beauty and talents of Thuy Van and Thuy Kieu. After presenting Thuy Van's portrait and beauty, the poet shifts focus to Kieu's beauty by contrasting it with that of Thuy Van:

"Kieu is even more refined and graceful...

In terms of beauty and talent, Kieu surpasses all"

Kieu's beauty is clearly superior to Van's in both talent and appearance. Her "refined" intellect and "gracious" spirit set her apart. First is Kieu's physical beauty. Continuing to use symbolic and metaphorical techniques, Nguyen Du draws comparisons between Kieu's beauty and nature's splendor, using images such as autumn water, spring hills, flowers, and willows, to present a vision of an exquisite lady. However, when describing Kieu, the poet doesn't focus on detailed physical features like he did with Van; instead, he concentrates on one focal point: Kieu's eyes, described as "autumn water and spring hills": eyes clear and deep like autumn water, and eyebrows as delicate as the hills in spring.

This is a classic example of the artistic technique of "painting the soul" through the eyes. The eyes, as the window to the soul, reveal Kieu's pure, profound, and captivating inner world. Her beauty transcends nature's limits and the traditional standards of the feudal era, making flowers envious and willows sigh:

"Flowers pale in comparison, willows lose their grace

Her beauty makes rivers and cities tremble"

The use of personification (flowers envious, willows upset) combined with hyperbole (rivers and cities trembling) serves not only to describe Kieu's beauty but also to foreshadow her tragic fate. Her beauty disrupts harmony and balance (unlike Van, whose beauty represents peace and balance), signaling that her life will be filled with hardship and struggles: "Her beauty will lead to sorrow and misfortune."

Next is Kieu's immense talent. Whereas the poet focused only on describing Van's physical beauty without mentioning her talents, in Kieu's case, the poet dedicates much of the description to her exceptional abilities. In one line, the poet captures both her beauty and her talent: "In beauty, Kieu stands alone, and in talent, she surpasses all." Kieu's talent is unparalleled, truly one of a kind in the world.

Gifted with exceptional intelligence, Kieu excels in all forms of art: music, poetry, painting, and chess. All these talents reach an ideal level according to the aesthetic standards of the feudal era: "Her skills in poetry, painting, music, and singing are unmatched." Kieu's musical talent is especially emphasized: "She masters the five notes of the musical scale, her private art outshines the finest instruments." Not only does Kieu play music, but she is also a composer: "Her music resonates with the sorrow of fate, leaving all who listen in sadness." Each time she plays, she sings the song of her "tragic fate," which reflects a heart full of sorrow and a life filled with misfortune.

In conclusion: Kieu's portrait is one that combines both character and destiny. Her beauty is unique, so remarkable that even nature envies it: "The sky, used to the beauty of rosy cheeks, grows jealous." Kieu's talent is unparalleled, which inevitably brings the age-old saying into play: "Where talent goes, misfortune follows" or "Talent and fate are bound to clash," leading to Kieu's life being one of hardship and sorrow.

Through this, we see Nguyen Du's exceptional skill in portraying human characters. From the depiction of beauty, the poet reveals hints of the character's personality, life, and fate. And although the poet first introduces Thuy Kieu as the elder sister and Thuy Van as the younger, he chooses to depict Van's portrait first and Kieu's later. This is an artistic technique called "levering," used to emphasize Kieu's unique beauty and talents. Thus, even though both characters are portrayed using symbolic metaphors, we can clearly see the difference in the intensity of the descriptions for each. The poet uses only four lines for Van, but dedicates twelve lines to Kieu, focusing solely on her beauty for Van, while for Kieu, "beauty demands one, talent demands two." Nevertheless, both characters are depicted vividly, realistically, and uniquely, with different beauty, personalities, and destinies.

Through the use of symbolic techniques comparing human beauty to nature's splendor, Nguyen Du successfully portrays the portrait of the two sisters, Thuy Kieu and Thuy Van. In doing so, we see the poet's admiration for human beauty and talent, as well as his profound insight into the tragic fate of talented individuals.

The image of women has long been a profound source of inspiration for poetry, music, and art. Despite the patriarchal society of feudal times where women had limited representation in literary works, by the 16th century, women began to naturally and authentically emerge in Vietnamese medieval literature. Notable works from this era include 'Truyền kì mạn lục' by Nguyễn Dữ, 'Truyền kì tân phả' by Đoàn Thị Điểm, and 'Chinh phụ ngâm khúc' by Đặng Trần Côn... Writers and poets often emphasized the virtues, tragic fate, and misfortune of women, but seldom did they highlight the beauty, talent, and uniqueness of female characters. However, in Nguyễn Du's 'Truyện Kiều,' while focusing on the unfortunate lives of women, the poet particularly emphasizes the portrayal of beauty, talent, and character, which greatly contributes to the success of the work. This is evident in the character Thúy Kiều, especially in the passage 'Chị em Thúy Kiều.' The first four lines introduce her background and beauty:

The renowned cultural figure and national poet Nguyễn Du is regarded as one of Vietnam's greatest literary minds. When one mentions Nguyễn Du, they recall 'Truyện Kiều' – a masterpiece of Vietnamese poetry and literature. While it shares the same medieval literary foundation and addresses the misfortunes of women in society, Nguyễn Du's work stands out for its particular emphasis on portraying beauty and talent in his characters. Thúy Kiều is a prime example, embodying the pinnacle of Nguyễn Du's character portrayal technique, with her image most vividly depicted in the excerpt 'Sisters Thúy Kiều.'

The excerpt 'Sisters Thúy Kiều' introduces the two sisters, Thúy Kiều and Thúy Vân. It can be argued that this part is the most exquisite and poetic of the entire narrative. The poet begins by giving a brief introduction to their origins, status, and Thúy Kiều's beauty:

"At the forefront, two beauties divine,

Thúy Kiều is the elder, with Thúy Vân as her line."

"Her elegance like plum, her spirit pure as snow,

Each sister a beauty, perfectly so."

The Vương family has two daughters, and Thúy Kiều is the eldest. Her beauty is depicted with metaphors that evoke a sense of grace and purity: "Her elegance like plum, her spirit pure as snow" – representing a beauty that is graceful, charming, and untouched, like the plum flower or snow. This beauty is flawless, a perfect ten, without a single imperfection. From the very first lines, the poet arouses the reader's curiosity to learn more about Thúy Kiều's beauty. However, instead of describing Kiều directly, the poet first paints the picture of Thúy Vân's beauty, and only after that does Nguyễn Du use this comparison to establish Kiều as a beauty beyond compare:

"Kiều is sharper, more alluring,

In both beauty and skill, she is superior."

"Her eyes like autumn’s serene and clear,

Her brows like spring's gentle, rising sphere."

"Flowers envy her, willows pale in comparison,

Her beauty causes rivers and cities to sway in her direction."

The poet's subtlety is reflected in how he builds up the contrast: Vân's beauty is already extraordinary, yet Kiều's beauty is so overwhelming that even nature itself seems to concede defeat. Kiều’s eyes are bright and clear, like autumn’s crystal waters, and her brows delicate like spring’s mountain outlines. This beauty defies the standards set by nature and transcends the confines of the conventional roles for women in the feudal society. Nguyễn Du’s verses, rich in metaphor and personification, create an image of a woman whose beauty is divine. Beyond beauty, the poet also portrays Kiều's outstanding talents, blending her physical and intellectual excellence into a harmonious whole. He uses the line 'Beauty demands one, but talent deserves two' to further emphasize Kiều's exceptional qualities:

"Her intellect is a gift from the heavens,

Her skills in art, poetry, and music unmatched in realms."

"She masters the five notes, the music of the lute,

Her art surpasses all, unmatched and astute."

Thúy Kiều possesses a natural brilliance, coupled with exceptional talents in every field: music, poetry, painting, and calligraphy. She is a master of the lute and its five notes, and her skills in composition, where she sings about the suffering of fate, move listeners deeply. Phrases such as 'a gift from the heavens,' 'artful mastery,' 'the full range,' and 'surpassing all' emphasize the extraordinary value of Kiều's talents. Through Nguyễn Du’s vivid descriptions, the reader is left with a lasting impression of a remarkable figure, unique in her abilities and rare in her existence.

However, Kiều’s extraordinary beauty and talent signal ominous signs for her future. The old saying 'Beauty is often linked to a tragic fate' applies here, as does the saying 'Talent often brings misfortune.' Kiều’s exceptional qualities make her a target for the harsh forces of fate, setting her on a path marked by turmoil and sorrow. Thúy Kiều is not only a woman of beauty and talent, but also one of virtue:

"She lives in luxury, in a world of grace,

Her youth approaching marriage’s embrace."

"In her room, the curtains softly fall,

Suitors pass by, unaware of her call."

She lives in a well-established, noble family, receiving a solid education, and adhering to the values and decorum expected of a lady. Despite being of marriageable age, she remains unaffected by the suitors who pursue her, focused on preserving her dignity and virtue.

The portrait of Thúy Kiều reflects not only her beauty but also her character and fate. Through the depiction of her physical allure and exceptional abilities, Nguyễn Du celebrates the value and dignity of women. Simultaneously, the foreshadowing of Kiều’s future troubles reflects the poet’s deep empathy and human compassion. The character of Thúy Kiều in the excerpt 'Sisters Thúy Kiều' highlights Nguyễn Du’s remarkable ability to craft a character through poetry, leaving a lasting impression of a rare and virtuous woman.

When we talk about Nguyễn Du, we can’t help but think of *The Tale of Kiều*. Despite its age, this masterpiece remains timeless and vibrant to this day. Nguyễn Du has indeed gifted us a brilliant work of art, a true masterpiece. In this story, the most memorable character is Thúy Kiều. Through the lines of the great poet, we witness the beauty of this tragic woman, and through her, we also grasp Nguyễn Du’s progressive and humanistic view of people.

First and foremost, it’s Thúy Kiều’s beauty that stands out. Nguyễn Du presents her as a woman of unparalleled perfection, whose beauty encompasses not only her physical appearance but also her soul, emotions, and talents. Yet, it is this very perfection that leads to her tragic fate in a feudal society, where a woman’s life can never be fulfilled.

Regarding her beauty, Nguyễn Du describes her as possessing a heavenly charm that no one else could ever match. This beauty is expressed through verses in the excerpt *Sisters Thúy Kiều*:

“Kiều is even more graceful and enchanting,

Her beauty surpasses all others,

Her eyes as clear as autumn waters,

Flowers envy her, and willows bow in shame.

Her beauty tilts the waters and the city walls.”

This is the beauty of Thúy Kiều, a beauty so captivating that it causes anyone who sees her to fall deeply in love. But her beauty doesn’t only evoke admiration from men; it stirs jealousy among women as well. Indeed, nature itself envies her, as her beauty is so unique that even flowers and willows seem to be in competition with her. In addition to her unparalleled beauty, Kiều is also extraordinarily talented, showcasing the refined accomplishments of a noblewoman:

“Her musical skills span all five notes,

Her talent far surpasses the mastery of the lute.”

Thúy Kiều embodies all the talents that were prized in women of her time. A woman in the past was considered talented if she could recite poetry, play music, and appreciate the fine arts. In Kiều’s case, she possesses all these skills—she is not just beautiful but also excels in music, poetry, and painting.

With beauty and talent, Kiều also has a deep sense of affection and respect for her family. The most significant act of love is when Kiều sacrifices herself to save her father. Her father is unjustly imprisoned, and Kiều makes the ultimate sacrifice—selling herself to rescue him. Yet, even in this act of selflessness, Kiều does not forget her love for Kim Trọng, and she entrusts her sister Thúy Vân with her promise, bowing in humility:

“I entrust you, sister, with my fate,

Bow down to him on my behalf, and tell him this,

The road we take now is parting,

May you tie the bonds of love for both of us.”

Throughout her journey, Kiều encounters two men who save her from the brothel: Thúc Sinh and Từ Hải. These two noble men redeem Kiều, and she lives with them as a wife—not out of lust, but out of gratitude. Her affection for them grows as a result of her deep sense of gratitude.

However, Kiều’s extraordinary beauty and talent are what lead to her painful and arduous life. While both Thúy Kiều and Thúy Vân are beautiful, Thúy Vân’s beauty is more readily admired, while Kiều’s beauty stirs jealousy in others. Thus, Kiều’s life becomes filled with hardships and misfortunes. She lives as a courtesan, forced to associate with men of all kinds. Despite this, Kiều never loses her sense of dignity. Her two suicide attempts reflect her inner purity and her sense of shame.

Through the beauty, talents, and struggles of Kiều, we can see Nguyễn Du’s progressive views on humanity. He shows deep empathy for people, particularly the small and unfortunate, like women who were often devalued by society. His portrayal of Kiều and others in such a respectful, compassionate manner critiques the brutality of the feudal system and its exploitation of women. He condemns those who harm others for financial gain and trample on human dignity.

Nguyễn Du is the first in classical literature to focus on the plight of women with beauty and artistic talent. He addresses important humanistic issues, emphasizing that society must value spiritual and artistic contributions, and honor the creators of such values. *The Tale of Kiều* is imbued with the spirit of praising and respecting the wondrous beauty of love between two people.

Through this, we see Nguyễn Du, a brilliant artist, has created the character of Thúy Kiều—a representative of talented yet doomed women in a feudal society. This very society that tramples on the qualities and beauty that should allow them to lead a happy life. Through this, the great poet also demonstrates his distinctive artistic approach to humanity.