Top 10 Essays Analyzing the Work 'Văn tế nghĩa sĩ Cần Giuộc' by Nguyễn Đình Chiểu

Nguyễn Đình Chiểu came from a Confucian family. In 1846, he moved to Gia Định to open a school, practice medicine, and write poetry. Even when the French attempted to entice him, he remained devoted to his country and its people. His works are steeped in high moral values, compassion, and ideals of righteousness, depicting virtuous, honest individuals who are willing to fight for justice and have the strength to overcome tyrannical forces in order to save the world.

'Văn tế nghĩa sĩ Cần Giuộc' is an exemplary work of this nature. It is the poet’s heart-wrenching lament and the collective grief of the people for the sacrifice of these heroes. A funeral oration is a genre used to mourn the dead, characterized by rituals and memorials. It typically includes: an opening that introduces the deceased, a section remembering the deceased’s virtues, a lament of loss, and a conclusion offering a message to the soul of the departed.

'Văn tế nghĩa sĩ Cần Giuộc' is composed of these four parts. The poem opens with a cry: 'Oh dear! The guns of the enemy thunder, the earth trembles, and the sky remains clear.' This mournful cry evokes an image of death, a stark reminder of the brutality of war and the lives lost on the battlefield. Does heaven understand the sorrow of those left behind, the heartbreak of the families mourning their fallen loved ones?

The poet’s mournful cry comes from a place of deep emotion. It is a reflection of the poet’s admiration and boundless sympathy for the peasant soldiers. Phrases like 'quickly abandoning their bodies,' 'waiting for the sword of the tiger to hang on their tombs,' 'the land and crops are a blessing from God,' 'devotion to our nation,' 'soldiers endure hardships,' 'eating snow and sleeping in the rain,' and 'fortifications crumble' reflect this deep empathy, emphasizing that these brave warriors were common folk who rose up to defend their country out of love for it.

The poet also paints a picture of the soldiers’ physical appearance, revealing their humble nature: 'They were just villagers,' 'wearing nothing but a piece of coarse cloth,' 'holding a bamboo spear.' These images depict the poor, hard-working peasants who lived in poverty, with not enough food or warmth to keep them comfortable. The poet also describes their daily lives in plain, simple language, showing that they were 'struggling to make ends meet,' 'unfamiliar with horses and weapons,' 'accustomed to working the fields and farming, and not trained for battle.'

This provides a complete view of the peasant soldiers. They were ordinary, honest laborers who did not wish for war, did not seek to conquer others or profit from violence. They were content with their modest lives and only wanted enough food and clothing to survive. Yet, when their country was in peril, with the sounds of enemy guns echoing through the land, they rose up in defense. The phrase 'the guns thundered' suggests that the enemy had advanced weaponry, highlighting the disparity between the two sides. The poet captures the simplicity and nobility of these patriotic citizens: 'The sound of the wind and cranes reflects more than ten months of waiting for news from the officials, like drought waiting for rain. The smell of battle has lingered for three years, detesting the enemy's cruelty like the soul's disdain for weeds.'

'They found themselves hiding in their huts, but still felt the fire of battle, and despite their humble circumstances, they volunteered to lay down their lives.' Even though they were simple villagers with only a piece of cloth and a bamboo spear, they willingly offered their lives for a greater cause: 'The fires of war were ignited by dry straw, even the birds burned themselves. The soldiers used whatever they had—knives, axes, and farming tools—fighting without fear, determined to confront the enemy.'

The poet has succeeded in creating a vivid portrayal of the Cần Giuộc soldiers. The descriptions of their humble origins, physical appearance, and actions show that they were simple, hardworking individuals who, when their country was in danger, took it upon themselves to defend their homeland. Their bravery, willingness to sacrifice, and dedication are clearly depicted through the poet’s careful attention to detail.

'Ngôi sao Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, a great poet of our country, deserved to shine brighter in the sky of national literature, especially at this time.' (Excerpt from 'Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, the Bright Star in National Literature,' Phạm Văn Đồng). This statement by Phạm Văn Đồng reflects admiration, respect, and reverence for the genius of Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, who stands out as a representative figure of the achievements of Vietnamese classical literature.

One of Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's remarkable contributions is the creation of an immortal monument to the patriotic peasant soldiers through his work 'Văn tế nghĩa sĩ Cần Giuộc.' Published in 1858, at the time when French colonial forces began their invasion of Vietnam at Da Nang's seaport, the work vividly portrays the brave peasant soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the uprising against the French on November 15th of the Year of the Rooster (Tân Dậu).

The author begins by capturing the beauty of the peasant soldiers amidst the tense and fiery atmosphere of their era: 'The enemy's guns roar, the earth trembles, and the people's hearts are clear.' With just eight words, Nguyễn Đình Chiểu masterfully portrays the historic confrontation between the invading enemy and the unyielding patriotism of the Vietnamese people through an opposing structure: 'enemy's guns / people's hearts, earth trembles / sky clears.' In this urgent context, the beauty of the peasant soldiers emerges as they are contrasted with the past and present:

'Remember the old days: Quietly working the land, struggling with poverty,'

'Unfamiliar with horses and weapons, never to taste the luxury of the court;'

'Only knowing the fields and the village militia.'

'Plowing, digging, hoeing, and sowing—hands accustomed to these tasks;'

'Training with shields, rifles, spears, and flags, eyes unfamiliar with them.'

Before the battle against the French began, they were humble farmers, living simple lives 'behind the village's bamboo fences,' enduring harsh weather, working tirelessly in the fields. Military tasks were foreign to them: 'Training with shields, rifles, spears, and flags, eyes unfamiliar with them.' Yet their connection to the land and their homeland kept the flame of patriotism burning bright within them:

'Looking for news from the officials like waiting for rain in a drought,'

'The smell of war has lingered for three years, hated like a farmer despises weeds.'

'One day seeing smoke rising, their hearts filled with fury;'

'Watching the darkening chimney smoke, they longed to strike the enemy.'

In their country’s moment of peril, with a cowardly and weak court, the peasants maintained their sense of duty toward their homeland, expressing deep hatred for the invaders. The language used by Nguyễn Đình Chiểu evokes the deep hatred for the enemy expressed by General Trần Quốc Tuấn in his famous 'Hịch tướng sĩ': 'I often forget to eat, waking at midnight, my heart aching as if cut, tears streaming, only yearning to tear the enemy apart, to swallow their hearts and drink their blood.'

Without waiting for leadership or orders, they rose up to drive out the French colonizers with bravery and courage: 'No need for orders or requests, we will fight without hesitation - We won’t run, we will stand and fight like tigers.'

With a readiness to sacrifice their lives and fight for their nation, these peasants faced the battle with courage, dignity, and an unshakable spirit, undeterred by the enemy's guns. Despite their crude weaponry: 'coarse cloths,' 'bamboo spears,' 'dry straw,' and 'machetes,' their fierce patriotism fueled them to fight valiantly with fervor: 'Breaking through barriers, charging forward as if the enemy were nothing,' 'Storming through doors, throwing themselves into battle with no fear,' seen in their decisive actions: 'Some struck sideways, others hacked backwards.'

Nguyễn Đình Chiểu effectively uses action words like 'kick,' 'charge,' 'storm,' 'break,' and 'hack' to depict the indomitable, heroic spirit of the peasant soldiers. Although their uprising may have been unsuccessful, their indomitable will to fight created an anthem of patriotism, leaving behind a sense of sorrow and loss in the hearts of the Vietnamese people.

Thus, through the analysis, we can appreciate the beauty of the peasant soldiers as reflected in their patriotic spirit, their voluntary rise to fight against foreign invaders, and their bravery in battle. Through the pen of Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, 'Chở bao nhiêu đạo thuyền không khẳm - Đâm mấy thằng gian bút chẳng tà,' the portrait of the peasant soldier in the battle against the French is etched with tragic beauty.

Nguyễn Đình Chiểu (1822-1888) was a deeply patriotic Confucian scholar who harbored a profound hatred for the invaders. His life was marked by numerous personal tragedies and misfortunes. It is perhaps because of this that he felt the pain of losing his country even more acutely when the French colonizers came to invade Vietnam. In 1859, when the French forces invaded the Bến Nghé River and captured Gia Định, Nguyễn Đình Chiểu had to seek refuge at his wife's home in Thanh Ba, Cần Giuộc.

On the French side, after capturing Gia Định, they began expanding their attacks to nearby regions. Soon, Cần Giuộc was overrun by French forces. The local farmers, dressed in simple clothes, with muddy hands and feet, rose up to fight back. Many of these farmers joined the resistance army, ready to sacrifice themselves for a noble cause. The stories of their heroic sacrifices inspired deep admiration among the people.

Đỗ Quang, the Governor of Gia Định, asked Nguyễn Đình Chiểu to compose a funeral oration for over twenty resistance fighters who died in battle on the night of December 16, 1861. With great admiration and sorrow, Nguyễn Đình Chiểu wrote the "Văn tế nghĩa sĩ Cần Giuộc." This work not only expresses the boundless sorrow of the author and the people for the fallen heroes but also vividly captures the noble, tragic, and heroic spirit of the patriotic farmers who fought against the French.

Alas! The enemy's guns shook the earth; the people's hearts were as clear as the sky... When the country was in peril, the sound of gunfire echoed across the land. It was through this danger and suffering that the love for the country of these ordinary farmers was revealed, and the true beauty of their souls was shown to the world.

The deep love for the homeland and the nation of these humble farmers became even more evident when the author repeatedly used contrasting comparisons in the following verses. "Remember the old soldiers: Quietly working, worrying about poverty, unfamiliar with horses and royal courts; Only knowing the plow and the village; The work of plowing, tilling, sowing, the hands are used to such labor; They never trained with shields, guns, spears, or flags..."

In the past, they lived quietly, "just working in silence." They lived, but it was in the quiet of their lives. They only worried about the simple things of life: "a morsel of rice and a piece of cloth," and were accustomed to the tasks of farming: plowing, tilling, sowing, reaping, and taking care of their buffaloes and fields. They had no knowledge of "horses," "royal courts," nor were they familiar with "spears and flags." These resistance fighters were farmers who had never seen a battle, never trained, and only stood up to fight because of their love for the nation and hatred for the invaders.

When the "sound of the wind in the reeds" had passed for over ten months, they eagerly awaited orders from the government: "Looking for news from the authorities, like waiting for rain in a drought." The tragedy lay here: the weak and indecisive government failed to understand the people's patriotic hearts. The hatred these farmers felt for the invaders was overwhelming:

"The smell of fried rice has been lingering for three years, hating the enemy like a farmer hates weeds..."

"In the evening, seeing smoke rising, they wanted to eat the enemy's heart; by day, watching the smoke from chimneys, they longed to tear out their throats."

The image of the farmers, these patriotic resistance fighters, emerges with bravery and heroism. Their deep love for their country made them shine with beauty, a beauty that emerged from their fiery hatred of the invaders. This hatred transformed into heroic actions, as they rose up in defiance, fighting fiercely for their homeland.

"Who waits for anyone to call or order, this time, we will fight with all our might..."

Unlike in previous works opposing the unjust feudal wars, where the farmers had to reluctantly become soldiers and leave to defend the king's borders, here, the farmers in Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's work are different. They voluntarily rose up to defend their homeland. This voluntary act of standing up to fight is the most beautiful quality of the Cần Giuộc farmers who became the resistance fighters.

By this point, not only the beauty of their souls but also the beauty of their actions as resistance fighters is vividly portrayed by Nguyễn Đình Chiểu. The motivation to take on the historical responsibility gave them immense strength. They acted decisively, rising up to fight the invaders. They did not wait for orders, but armed only with "a piece of cloth and a bamboo spear," "a small hoe," "a hat," they fought with everything they had.

The image of the farmers in this work makes us feel both proud and sorrowful. These resistance fighters embodied the strength of the entire nation. Facing the powerful invaders with their "small bullets, large bullets," "iron and tin ships," and their professional army, they had only "a piece of cloth," "a bamboo spear," "a sickle," and "firearms made from dried straw."

One might wonder how these primitive weapons could possibly stand against the colonial forces' guns. It seemed like certain death, a bitter truth laid bare before us. This is the tragedy of the Cần Giuộc resistance fighters, and the tragedy of our nation during that harsh period.

This tragedy led to the prolonged national catastrophe that lasted for a century. However, from this tragedy, the image of the patriotic farmers rose with unparalleled bravery. With unwavering resilience and deep patriotism, they performed extraordinary deeds, giving rise to the epic of national heroism in the face of war.

Despite the immense danger, despite the overwhelming odds, they fought and fought to win, using their spirit of self-sacrifice to make up for their lack of weaponry and resources. Though the odds were against them, the resistance fighters fought with unrelenting determination, achieving remarkable results.

With only crude weapons such as: "Firearms made from dried straw," they still burned down foreign missionary houses, "A sickle used as a sword" could still decapitate enemy officers. "Some stab horizontally, others chop vertically," making the enemy’s spirits tremble. With such rudimentary tools, but with the love for the country and the spirit of nationalism, they achieved the impossible. The image of the patriotic farmers shines with the glory of nationalism, seemingly overshadowing the dark era of Vietnam’s history during the late 19th century.

The funeral oration is like a statue carved in words, depicting the heroic yet tragic image of the patriotic farmers, symbolizing the hatred for foreign invaders, the unwavering love for the homeland, and the pain of national loss. This statue also represents a major national tragedy—the loss of the nation—and signals a dark period of our history: the hundred years of French colonial rule.

However, despite this great tragedy, the indomitable spirit of the people of the South, and of Vietnam in general, still shines brightly through the noble ideals of the Cần Giuộc resistance fighters—they were willing to sacrifice everything for the greater good, for the nation.

The "Văn Tế Nghĩa Sĩ Cần Giuộc" (Funeral Oration for the Cần Giuộc Martyrs) stands as the pinnacle of Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's literary works, deeply embodying his fervent patriotism and compassion for the people. With sincere admiration and empathy, the poet has created an eternal artistic monument to the heroic peasant fighters during the national resistance against foreign invaders. This oration is a powerful, tragic anthem of the peasant soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the survival of their country.

The first notable quality of these fighters is their voluntary participation in the war. These were simple farmers who spent their lives toiling away, only concerned with making ends meet, ensuring they had enough to eat and wear. They understood their lowly status in society, and apart from paying taxes, they rarely concerned themselves with national affairs. The affairs of the state were seen as the concern of kings and courts.

However, when the foreign invaders from Lang Sa poured into the country, spreading their corruption (a war that had been raging for three years with no sign of the government taking action), the peasants could no longer stand idly by. Their nationalistic feelings, nurtured through generations, surged within their veins, and they rose up to fight:

"Who waits for orders? Who needs asking? This time, we will use all our strength to defeat the enemy;

no need to flee, no need to hide, we will face them head-on, like brave tigers."

They took on an immense and daunting task: fighting against an enemy far superior in strength. Their courage and selflessness were reflected in their willingness to fight and sacrifice for their country. This willingness is even more remarkable because they were merely ordinary villagers, not soldiers of the imperial army.

From their humble homes, they rushed straight into battle, with no training or preparation. Their weapons were far from ideal; their strength was their love for the nation. The crude tools they used, such as straw and sickles, could hardly match the enemy's modern guns and iron ships. Yet, the sharpness of their weapons lay not in their physical form but in the spirit and courage of the men who wielded them.

Even in the face of overwhelming odds, these men fought valiantly, their actions filled with heroic resolve. Here are the battle cries that ring through their brave confrontation:

"Straw-fired rockets burn down the enemy's barracks;

sickle blades slash off the heads of the enemy's officers."

They struck sideways, slashed upwards, overwhelming their enemies with sheer ferocity, making the invaders tremble in fear. The peasants' cries were louder than the cannons of the foreign fleet, their crude weapons more effective than modern guns. Their fierce actions transformed them from mere farmers into mighty warriors, making the enemy tremble.

The emotions conveyed in the "Văn Tế Nghĩa Sĩ Cần Giuộc" are filled with a tragic grandeur. The tone of the poem is forceful, urgent, and powerful, perfectly capturing the spirit of a fierce and heroic battle. The use of contrast and parallelism adds to the epic quality of the narrative, presenting a clear depiction of the national struggle against overwhelming odds.

Nearly thirty peasant martyrs gave their lives in this unequal battle. Their deaths, tragic yet noble, evoke the sympathy of nature and humanity alike: "Looking to the Cần Giuộc River, the grasses and trees mourn for miles; watching the market of Trường Bình, young and old weep in sorrow." The loss of life for the country and its people is heart-wrenching and stirs deep emotions.

The artistic monument to the peasant soldiers, as depicted in this poem, is built from tears and grief, from the poet's and the people's sorrow. It is a remarkable artistic achievement by the patriotic blind poet Nguyễn Đình Chiểu. This "Văn Tế" serves as a memorial, a landmark, a glorious statue to the heroic peasants of the South and to the enduring laboring people of the nation.

Nguyen Dinh Chieu is a brilliant writer who introduced the image of the farmer in literature, a figure who had long been overlooked, through his work 'Văn tế nghĩa sĩ Cần Giuộc.' In this memorial poem, the image of the poor farmer is vividly depicted. These farmers, who silently work the land, spending their lives tending to the fields, embody a life of hard, diligent labor.

They are clear in their affections and hatreds, holding an unwavering hatred for the invaders when the French colonialists arrived. They fought valiantly and sacrificed their lives, their heroic deeds are framed in words filled with sorrow, yet not a single tear was shed. This is the brilliance of Nguyen Dinh Chieu's poetry.

'Văn tế nghĩa sĩ Cần Giuộc' was written in 1858, during the French colonial invasion, after they attacked Da Nang. Having captured Gia Dinh at the start of 1859, the French forces began to expand their assault into nearby regions like Tan An, Can Giuoc, and Go Cong...

On November 15th of the Year of the Rooster, these farmers, driven by their intense hatred for foreign invaders, bravely rose up to ambush a French outpost in Can Giuoc. They successfully killed several of the enemy forces and the local Vietnamese collaborator working for the French. Around fifteen patriots perished. Their heroic actions stirred deep emotions within the people. At the request of the Gia Dinh governor, Do Quang, Nguyen Dinh Chieu composed the 'Văn tế nghĩa sĩ Cần Giuộc' to be read at the memorial service for the fallen warriors in this battle.

As we know, 'Văn tế nghĩa sĩ Cần Giuộc' is a rare 'artistic work.' 'Tragic grandeur' is the scope and essence of this masterpiece: grand yet sorrowful, heroic yet filled with grief. It is heroic in its portrayal of the fight for a noble cause. It exudes heroism in its depiction of self-sacrifice and valor. It vividly depicts a turbulent era in the nation's history.

The poem begins with the exclamation 'Alas!'—a sorrowful cry from the poet for the fallen heroes, a lament for the perilous state of the nation: 'The enemy’s guns roar, the earth trembles; the people's hearts are clear,' meaning that the nation is in danger, with the enemy’s cannons shaking the land and sky.

In the face of the loss of their country and homes, only the people stood up to shoulder the historical mission of fighting to protect the country and their families. The farmer, who had only known the hardships of the land, rose courageously to defend the nation, driven by the love for their homeland, a spirit of patriotism deeply embedded in their hearts. The image of the farmers—the humble warriors of Can Giuoc—is at the heart of the poem.

They were poor farmers who lived their lives 'alone' behind the village’s bamboo hedges. They were simple, kind-hearted, and diligent, toiling endlessly on the land with their oxen and plows, so distant from the luxuries of the royal courts and military life: 'Recalling the old days: Quietly working; worried about poverty.' Working quietly meant working in solitude, silently enduring hardship without complaining.

'Quietly working; worrying about poverty' paints a picture of the unending cycle of the Vietnamese farmer’s life, toiling in isolation, always struggling to make ends meet, never knowing the comforts of royalty or war.

'Not familiar with royal courts or military life; only knowing the oxen and fields in the village.'

These farmers were a large, close-knit community, spending their lives working the land, 'never considering' war or weaponry:

'The hoe, the plow, the harrow, the rice planting, hands accustomed to labor; never glanced at shields, guns, or spears.'

Yet, when their homeland was invaded by the French, these humble, hardworking farmers rose to take up arms to defend the country, to protect the land and livelihoods they cherished. They had only one goal: to reclaim the independence of their beloved nation.

'Seeing the white sails, ready to fight; watching the black smoke rise, eager to strike.' Against the French invaders and their collaborators, the farmers had only one response: 'to eat their hearts' and 'tear their throats,' with a single purpose: 'to destroy the enemy this time... using all their might.'

In the poem, Nguyen Dinh Chieu contrasts the local patriots with the French invaders. The French were equipped with modern weaponry—'tin ships, copper ships,' 'small and large bullets,' and mercenaries 'trained in combat.' In contrast, the defenders had only rudimentary equipment.

Their uniforms were 'mere ragged clothes.' Their weapons were 'a bamboo spear,' or 'a machete,' with gunpowder ignited by 'a stick of straw.' Despite this, they achieved remarkable feats: 'burning down the missionary's house' and 'decapitating the collaborating official.' The poem vividly recreates the intense battle between the patriots and the French:

'The drumbeats urge the troops, rushing forward, indifferent to the enemy; no fear of the French bullets, charging through the gates as if no danger existed.'

'Some stab sideways, others slash upward, causing panic among the enemy soldiers; the front line, the rear, charging on as the enemy's modern weapons failed.'

The battlefield was filled with the sounds of drums urging the troops, 'the front line charging, the rear coming on,' alongside the loud crack of gunfire. The patriots faced death without fear, attacking fiercely, breaking through enemy defenses: 'charging through the gate,' 'slashing with swords,' 'front line attacking, rear line following.'

Nguyen Dinh Chieu's style emphasizes the courage and indomitable spirit of the Can Giuoc farmers. He also expresses his deep admiration for these farmers-turned-warriors. This is the first time such an image of the peasant soldier appears in literature.

In 'Văn tế nghĩa sĩ Cần Giuộc,' there is also the poignant cry of the elderly mothers waiting for their sons to return, the wives mourning their husbands, and the children longing for their fathers, all conveying deep emotion and sorrow. Many patriots fell in battle, their bodies lying like heroes:

'The will of the patriots lasted long; not knowing their mortal forms would be abandoned.' The nation, the homeland, mourned deeply. A vast, aching space: 'Looking at the Can Giuoc river, the sorrow stretches for miles; seeing the market at Truong Binh, the old and young are kneeling in grief.' The cries of the elderly mother, the heartache of the young wife, and the longing of the children are deeply moving: 'How painful it is for the old mother crying for her child, the dim light of the lamp flickering in the hut; heart-wrenching to see the weak wife searching for her husband, with dusk falling at the doorstep.'

The farmers fought bravely and died gloriously. Their sacrifices remind us that every country must be independent, no one has the right to invade. They are a shining example of bravery: 'Oh! A single battle, smoke clears; a thousand years of honor remains.'

The sacrifice of the Can Giuoc patriots is a precious lesson they left behind. It is better to die with honor than live in disgrace. They are a shining example for the Vietnamese people to follow, lighting the way for the nation's future. 'Live fighting the enemy, die fighting the enemy, their spirits will follow the warriors, for generations to come, vowing to take revenge...'

The legacy of the Can Giuoc peasant patriots will live forever in the hearts of the Vietnamese people, as an example of heroism and self-sacrifice for the independence of the nation. 'The tears of heroes are never wiped away, for the people’s hearts are bound by these words.'

In conclusion, 'Văn tế nghĩa sĩ Cần Giuộc' affirms Nguyen Dinh Chieu's deep love for the people. It is a profound expression of the nation's gratitude to the Can Giuoc patriots who heroically fought to defend the country's independence and sovereignty. This is their homeland, and to them, their country is everything in life.

The Can Giuoc peasant warriors serve as an enduring symbol of courage and patriotism for future generations to follow in building a stronger, prosperous nation.

For those who love literature, the theme of the farmer is quite familiar and has become a popular subject for many writers. We've seen a farmer who lost both his humanity and his form, driven to the brink by society in “Chí Phèo” by Nam Cao. Or the image of Sister Dậu running out into the darkness, as dark as her future, in “Tắt đèn” by Ngô Tất Tố.

However, for the first time in Vietnamese literature, a towering and majestic statue of the farmer was crafted by Nguyễn Đình Chiểu through “Văn tế nghĩa sĩ Cần Giuộc”. Along with depicting the tragic and sacrificial image of the farmer fighting the French, the eulogy also reflects the sorrow and compassion of the author for “the heroes in simple clothes”.

The eulogy was born during the time when French colonizers were rampant in Vietnam. After capturing Gia Định, the French began to invade surrounding areas like Tân An, Cần Giuộc, Gò Công... On December 16, 1861, in a moment of intense anger, the farmers of Cần Giuộc launched a surprise attack on a French outpost, killing several French soldiers. Sadly, about fifteen heroic soldiers fell in the battle.

Moved by their loss, Nguyễn Đình Chiểu composed the eulogy “Văn tế nghĩa sĩ Cần Giuộc” to honor the fallen heroes. The author begins by denouncing the crimes of the colonizers:

“Oh woe!
The guns of the enemy thunder on the land, while the people's hearts shine through the skies...”

Everywhere, the sound of gunfire echoed, shaking the earth. But in the face of danger, the true courage and virtues of these humble farmers were revealed. What they did was witnessed by both the heavens and earth, and their actions were immortalized in history, with the phrase “one heroic battle against the French, though the body perished, its echo lived on like a bell.” With just these first few lines, the author directly praises the heroic deeds of the farmers who were willing to sacrifice themselves to repel the invaders.

The author moves on from the significance of their sacrifice to describe the image of these farmers in their everyday life, working and laboring, and how they eventually became heroes who fought to protect their land:

Remember the old days:
Lonely and poor, struggling to make ends meet”

These farmers were simple, gentle people who spent their days “selling their faces to the earth, their backs to the sky,” tending to cattle and bamboo groves. They were primarily focused on their work, merely striving to make a living. Their hands were accustomed to farming tasks, such as plowing, tilling, and planting. They were not familiar with war or weaponry, and had never been trained in the use of arms.

It is evident that these farmers, as described by Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, were not accustomed to warfare. Yet, despite not being trained soldiers or skilled with weapons, these heroes stood firm, determined to fight the invaders. Their actions came from their deep hatred for the enemy's atrocities.

The author also subtly highlights another reason that pushed the farmers to rise: “The cry of the phoenix echoed for months, waiting for news like the parched earth waits for rain.” The weakness and passivity of the royal court, which failed to take any action against the enemy’s crimes, forced the farmers of Cần Giuộc to take matters into their own hands.

“Why wait for anyone to call or summon us? This time, we will fight for our land;
We will not care about directions, we are ready to stand tall like tigers.”

Through the use of enumeration, the author demonstrates the farmers' unwavering fighting spirit. They were ready to rise up and resist, not willing to cower and hide. Unlike the previous image of farmers “stepping onto the boat with tears like rain”—weak and forced—here we see farmers fighting voluntarily, without any external force compelling them. This is one of the reasons why the farmers of Cần Giuộc stand apart from others.

The farmers in “Văn tế nghĩa sĩ Cần Giuộc” not only had to learn to fight, but their sacrifice is also reflected in their ability to rise above difficult circumstances. With only a “ragged cloth” for protection, they went off to battle without the proper equipment:

“A torn cloth on their back, no armor to protect them;
With a simple spear in hand, no weapons or shields.”

Nguyễn Đình Chiểu leads readers to gradually explore the inner traits of these farmers. While earlier we admired their iron will and resolve to fight, the next part of the poem vividly depicts their fierce fighting spirit as they battle the invaders, as if the “spirit of patriotism overwhelmed all the traitors and invaders.” (“The Spirit of Patriotism” – Hồ Chí Minh).

“The drum beats loudly, urging the soldiers forward, trampling on fences, charging at the enemy with fierce speed, as if the French were nothing;
Not afraid of bullets, small or large, rushing into the enemy camp, risking their lives as if they had nothing left;
Some strike horizontally, others chop vertically, causing chaos in the enemy’s ranks;

The troops from the front, the rear surrounded, the enemy’s weapons useless.”

The author uses listing and imagery to showcase the farmers' resistance: “The drum beats, urging them on, charging through fences” then “striking horizontally and vertically,” creating a sense of urgency and energy, mirroring the actions of the heroic soldiers. The poem’s rhythm becomes increasingly heroic and intense, like a violent storm shaking the battlefield. Their fighting spirit intensifies as they fight on.

Reflecting on the historical context, when the colonizers invaded Vietnam and the weak, cowardly court failed to respond, the farmers, including those from Cần Giuộc, rose up to defend their land. Despite the imbalance in forces between the enemy and the farmers, some heroes fell in the battle. But their fall symbolized the courage and determination to defend their country from invasion.

However, the disproportionate strength between the French and the Vietnamese forces led to some of the heroic soldiers falling. Yet, their “fall” symbolizes the courage of those who bravely fought to expel the invaders and protect their homeland. This section of the eulogy conveys Nguyễn Đình Chiểu’s sorrow not only for the fallen heroes but also for the families who lost their loved ones in battle:

“How heartbreaking! The old mother cries for her son, the flickering candle burns dimly in the hut;
How sorrowful! The weak wife searches for her husband, standing in the evening dusk at the gate.”

What could be more heart-wrenching than a mother losing her son, or a wife losing her husband? There is no greater sorrow than losing a loved one. The more heroic and brave the farmers of Cần Giuộc were, the more the reader feels their loss and the hatred for the French invaders. The author’s use of exclamatory phrases tears the sky, echoing the mourning of those who sacrificed for the nation’s independence. Nguyễn Đình Chiểu’s comparison of the “old mother” to a “flickering candle” is particularly poignant.

At an old age, every mother has a child to care for and protect, but the mothers of Cần Giuộc can only cry for their lost sons. These mothers are left to suffer, not knowing who to rely on since their children are gone. The “weak wives” are like “the fading evening shadow at the gate” because there is no one left to lean on.

They are thrown into despair and turmoil, having suddenly lost something essential in their lives. “Fading” may also symbolize their hope, waiting for their husbands to return, but that hope is gone. These heroes fell for the cause of driving out the French invaders, to protect the land. These verses are full of sorrow, mourning for the farmers of Cần Giuộc!

Moved by the grief of the fallen heroes, the author pauses to reflect on the courage of these soldiers who sacrificed for their land and their people.

“While alive, they fought the enemy; in death, they fought the enemy, their spirits follow to assist the troops, forever vowing to avenge the fallen;
While alive, they served the king; in death, they serve the king, the king’s teachings are clear, and their loyalty is rewarded by the king’s grace.
The tears of the heroes will never dry, for they are the tears of the people;
The incense for the fallen soldiers burns sweet, a tribute to their loyalty.”

The eulogy starts with these great heroes, and it ends with them living forever in the heart of the nation. The “Cần Giuộc soldiers” are a living monument, embodying the image of ordinary people who are willing to rise up to protect their homeland. The phrase “it is better to die with honor than to live in shame” represents the golden image of the brave spirit of the farmer.

By using the eulogy form and employing simple, folk language combined with a tone of sorrow, Nguyễn Đình Chiểu has crafted a portrait of the brave, selfless “Cần Giuộc soldiers.” Despite their hardships and lack of military training, their unyielding spirit and determination to fight for independence have made them immortal heroes. Even though some of the heroes fell, their sacrifice became a powerful voice for those who, though “small and humble,” still have the right to fight for their own freedom.

The "Văn tế nghĩa sĩ Cần Giuộc" is regarded as a heartfelt tribute by Nguyễn Đình Chiểu to the patriotic soldiers who fought for the people's liberation during the early stages of the French invasion. The illustrious poet of Vietnam's literary history has created a "tragic epic" about the farmers who, with unwavering love for their country, rose up against foreign invaders. These farmers, driven by a deep hatred for the French colonizers, were prepared to sacrifice everything for the independence and freedom of their nation.

"Văn tế nghĩa sĩ Cần Giuộc" is a unique "artistic work" that was born in 1858, when the French colonialists fired upon Da Nang. The term "tragic epic" describes the work's grandeur and its emotional depth, both majestic and sorrowful. The majesty lies in the battle for a higher cause, the heroic qualities, and the willingness to sacrifice one's life. It depicts a time of great turmoil and determination in the history of the nation and people.

The opening of the eulogy, the words "Hỡi ôi!" (Oh, how sorrowful!), rings out like a lament for the fallen warriors, a sob of grief for the country in peril during those dark days.

The sound of enemy guns makes the earth tremble, while the hearts of the people rise in defiance.

These lines describe the country during a critical period, with gunfire echoing across the land, and all regions in turmoil. In the midst of national destruction, only the unified strength of the farmers, who took on the historical mission of defending the country, could save their homes and families. In such dire times, these farmers courageously fought to reclaim their nation's independence.

It all came from a great love for the country and a deep hatred for the invaders. These farmers, originally simple and hardworking, who spent their days tilling the soil, cultivating rice, and toiling under the sun, were unfamiliar with the lifestyle of soldiers and warriors.

Remembering the old days

Lonely in their labor,

Concerned only with poverty,

Unaware of the saddle and the warrior’s armor.

"Lonely in their labor" vividly illustrates the hardship of the farmer's life, toiling year-round with no escape from their humble existence. They knew nothing of swords or the battlefield. However, when the French invaders attacked, these farmers turned into warriors, defending their land as fiercely as they would defend their own food and livelihood.

The work in the fields, the plowing, the harrowing, the sowing, were all familiar tasks.

The practice of shields, spears, and flags was entirely unfamiliar.

Their daily tasks, like plowing and planting, were what they knew best, while weapons like spears and swords were foreign to them. But when the French came to invade, these farmers rose to the occasion, armed only with simple tools to protect their land.

The sound of the stormy winds was heard for over ten months, while waiting for news like a dry field waits for rain.

The scent of the battlefield lingered for years, as the farmers despised the invaders as much as they hated the weeds in their fields.

Against the French invaders and their collaborators, these farmers had only one response: "Eat their hearts" and "bite their necks".

At night, they saw the white mist and longed to eat their hearts;

During the day, they saw the black smoke and were determined to strike their necks.

Their resolve was clear: they would fight with everything they had.

They understood the gravity of the situation and made a decisive vow to rise up. They would not wait for orders; they would act when needed:

They would not wait for anyone to call or command; this time, they would act with the strength of tigers.

They would not hide or flee, for this time they would fight with everything they had.

They envisioned a righteous war, one they were ready to fight with all their might.

They would answer the call of the homeland, ready to sacrifice their lives for the land, for every inch of territory, and for the protection of Vietnam's independence. The image of these soldiers is majestic, heroic, and noble. Nguyễn Đình Chiểu painted a vivid picture of these soldiers as the epitome of courage, creating a "tragic art monument" in his eulogy.

The poet depicted the stark contrast between the heroic fighters from the homeland and the invading French. While the French army was equipped with modern weapons like "iron ships" and "cannonballs", the Vietnamese fighters had only simple, crude tools: "a piece of cloth", "a bamboo spear", and "a sickle". Despite their modest means, they crafted glorious pages of history. Beneath their tattered clothes lay a great and noble spirit.

They wore humble cloth, while waiting for their weapons to be sharpened,

They wielded a bamboo spear, with a knife and a wooden hat for protection.

Their firearms were nothing more than straw and hay, yet they burned down enemy strongholds.

They carried nothing but a sickle, yet they beheaded the enemy commanders.

These were humble people, but when faced with the enemy, they transformed into fearless defenders of the nation. The battle atmosphere was charged with heroic fervor, as the soldiers bravely charged towards the enemy fortresses, "rushing through the gates", "striking down their foes", and "fighting relentlessly".

The tone of the poem is bold and determined, using powerful verbs to emphasize the unyielding spirit of the Cần Giuộc fighters. The poet's admiration for these farmers-turned-soldiers is evident throughout the piece.

With drums echoing loudly, they broke through enemy lines, unfazed by the enemy’s weapons.

Unconcerned by the French bullets, they stormed in, fearless as if there was nothing to fear.

Some fought with spears, others with swords, fighting to the death with no hesitation.

In the poem, there are also moments of sorrow and grief, as the poet reflects on the sacrifices made by these brave warriors. Many fell in battle for the nation's cause, leaving behind loved ones who mourned their loss. The poem takes on a sorrowful tone as it moves into a reflection on the meaning of life and death.

Why live under the rule of the enemy, forsaking one's homeland?

Better to die for the cause of freedom than to live as slaves.

They died fighting for a just cause, and their sacrifice would be remembered for generations.

The poet concludes with a deep, humanistic message: even in death, these warriors will not serve the enemy. To live under French rule is worse than death; for the heroes, living means fighting the invaders, and dying means continuing the fight.

The poem ends with a tone of solemn pride and mourning for the fallen heroes. Their sacrifice has left an indelible mark on the nation’s soul, and their spirits will forever guide the future generations of Vietnam.

The "Văn tế nghĩa sĩ Cần Giuộc" is a powerful expression of Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's deep love for his country and people. It serves as a source of pride and gratitude from the people to the fallen heroes, whose bravery and sacrifice have inspired generations. The poem is a tribute to the farmers of Cần Giuộc, who rose above their humble lives to become the nation's true heroes, fighting for the independence and freedom of Vietnam.

Nguyễn Đình Chiểu is one of Vietnam's most renowned writers and poets. However, his life was not smooth. In 1849, he had to abandon his exams to return home and mourn his mother. On his journey, he suffered from eye issues that eventually led to blindness. Later, he taught, practiced medicine, and ultimately joined the fight against the French.

Perhaps because he spent much time among the people, particularly the farmers, Nguyễn Đình Chiểu developed a deep understanding of their hardships. However, he also recognized the tragic yet heroic spirit and unwavering willingness of the Southern peasantry to sacrifice for the nation, which led him to write the epic poem 'Văn tế nghĩa sĩ Cần Giuộc' at Đỗ Quang's request.

The poem is structured in four sections: Lung khởi, thích thực, ai vãn, and kết. Through this structure, Nguyễn Đình Chiểu immortalizes the peasantry in the eyes of his readers and listeners. In the opening section, he outlines the philosophy of life and death. He argues that standing up to foreign invaders is a righteous act, as the enemy’s guns may shake the earth, but the people's spirit will resonate with the heavens. Through this juxtaposition, he conveys the people's anger at the invasion of their homeland.

Furthermore, he compares the fame gained from ten years of hard farming to that of a single battle against the Western invaders. The latter’s glory is so profound that it spreads far and wide, like the sound of a mighty drum, symbolizing valor.

This battle between life and death, combined with love for the country and hatred for the invaders, stirs an intense anger among the peasants, so much so that they yearn to devour the enemy’s heart and throat. They sympathize with the sentiment of “lost country, ruined home,” which fuels the revolutionary spirit within the peasantry.

These peasants, who had only ever used hoes and plows, had no prior military experience. Yet, without waiting for orders, they volunteered to fight, even before being formally enlisted as soldiers.

They were courageous peasants, fighting without regard for life or death. They rushed forward fearlessly, acting as if the enemy did not exist. They showed no fear of the enemy’s bullets and charged into battle, throwing their lives into the fray without hesitation.

Despite their rudimentary weapons—such as bamboo spears, knives, and hats—they fought relentlessly, attacking the enemy with all their might. Their bravery was unwavering as they sacrificed everything to defend their homeland. This is the essence of the second section of the poem.

The third section expresses Nguyễn Đình Chiểu’s sorrow for the fallen peasants, whose heroic yet tragic devotion to their country never wavered. He laments: “A battle on the field, that is destiny; who knows when the horse hides behind the body; a hundred years in the afterlife is the end, not waiting for the sword of a tiger to hang over the grave.” His depiction of the grieving mother, the wife searching for her husband, and the flickering lamp in the hut captures the collective grief felt by Nguyễn Đình Chiểu and the people of Cần Giuộc.

The conclusion again stresses the importance of honoring the king and defending the nation in times of war, as exemplified by the Cần Giuộc warriors. Though they have fallen, their spirits will forever remain with the nation, continuing the fight to protect the land.

In conclusion, 'Văn tế nghĩa sĩ Cần Giuộc' by Nguyễn Đình Chiểu is a tragic yet heroic cry for a painful yet glorious period in Vietnamese history. It stands as an immortal tribute to the peasants of Cần Giuộc and the people of the South, who fought courageously and sacrificed their lives for the nation. The work is also a significant achievement in creating vivid character portraits, blending lyrical qualities with realism, using simple yet clear and dynamic language.

Nguyễn Đình Chiểu is a prominent poet and writer from the South during the medieval period of Vietnamese literature, regarded as a shining star in the national literary landscape. His extensive body of work reflects his deep ideals of human compassion and patriotism. Among his many contributions, one of the most outstanding works is 'Văn tế nghĩa sĩ Cần Giuộc'.

'Văn tế nghĩa sĩ Cần Giuộc' was written during the French colonial invasion of Vietnam, as the Cần Giuộc insurgents rose up and initially achieved victory. Afterward, the enemy launched a brutal counterattack, resulting in the death of 20 insurgents. At that time, the Gia Định governor, Đỗ Quang, requested Nguyễn Đình Chiểu to compose an elegy for the fallen heroes to be read at their memorial ceremony.

The work begins with Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's reflections on life and death: “Súng giặc đất rền; lòng dân trời tỏ/ Mười năm công vỡ ruộng, chưa ắt còn danh nổi như phao; một trận nghĩa đánh Tây, tuy là mất tiếng vang như mõ”. The author sets the scene of a tumultuous era, with the enemy armed with advanced weaponry, having slaughtered countless innocent people in the South. It is in this dire situation that the true spirit of the people toward their country is tested.

The people of the South did not hesitate to face death, offering their lives in battle against the invaders. They were willing to forsake their most precious possessions (wealth and life) in exchange for everlasting fame. This illustrates the truth of the age: it is better to die with honor than to live in disgrace.

In the next part of the work, the image of the peasant-hero emerges, humble yet incredibly courageous and resilient. Before the foreign invaders arrived, they were simple, unpretentious farmers, living peaceful, modest lives with the countless concerns of day-to-day survival. Their world revolved around their small village, and they knew little of the outside world.

Year after year, these farmers toiled with agricultural work: “việc cuốc, việc cày, việc bừa, việc cấy, tay vốn quen làm”, while they were oblivious to military training: “tập khiên, tập sung, tập mác, tập cờ mắt chưa từng ngó”. But when the invaders arrived at their doorstep, their perspective and emotions underwent a profound transformation.

First, there was a change in their emotions. They had been aware of the approaching invasion long before it reached their shores: “tiếng phong hạc phập phồng hơn mươi tháng”. Not only had they heard rumors, but they could also sense the impending struggle: “Mùi tinh chiên vấy vá đã ba năm”. Finally, they saw the brutal reality of the invasion: “Bữa thấy bòng bong che trắng lốp, muốn tới ăn gan; ngày xem ống khói chạy đen sì, muốn ra cắn cổ”.

By this point, their understanding had shifted. Initially, some of these farmers still held hope in the imperial court, waiting for military intervention “like waiting for rain in a drought.” But now they had come to fully comprehend the need for independence and the honor of their nation. They also realized their personal responsibility to protect their homeland: “Nào đợi ai đòi ai bắt, phen này xin ra sức đoạn kình, chẳng thèm trốn ngược trốn xuôi, chuyến này dốc ra tay bộ hổ”. Their proactive stance was awe-inspiring and courageous.

During the battle against the French, they were not equipped with military strategies or martial arts training. Their weapons were rudimentary tools used in daily life: “Ngoài cật có một manh áo vải” “trong tay cầm một ngọn tầm vông” “hỏa mai đánh bằng rơm con cúi”. In contrast, the enemy was armed with the latest weaponry and had undergone rigorous military training: “đạn nhỏ đạn to” “tàu đồng súng nổ”.

The disparity between the two sides was stark, yet the peasant-heroes “đạp rào lướt tới”, “coi giặc cũng như không”, “xô cửa xông vào liều mình như chẳng có”, “Đâm ngang chém ngược làm cho mã tà ma ní hồn kinh”. They showed no fear of the enemy's superior force. Using strong verbs and rapid, urgent rhythms, the author paints a vivid picture of a fierce battlefield, showcasing the bravery, perseverance, and indomitable spirit of the peasant-heroes.

But the modern weapons of the enemy eventually claimed many lives, leaving the nation to mourn the loss of these valiant souls. The author's grief, shared by the families and the entire nation, mourns the sacrifice of these brave individuals, while also lamenting the fate of their families, now enslaved by the invaders.

The author expresses profound admiration for the Cần Giuộc peasant-heroes: “Thà thác mà đặng câu địch khái, về theo tổ phụ cũng vinh; hơn còn mà chịu chữ đầu Tây, ở với man di rất khổ”. This verse not only conveys the sorrow for the fallen but also affirms the immortality of their deeds, looking toward the future generations. Thus, the verse, though filled with sadness, is not weak or lamenting, but rather emphasizes strength and continuity.

The final verses assert the immortality of the Cần Giuộc peasant-heroes, as their sacrifice and valor are remembered and honored by the surviving generations. The poem also praises their selflessness and devotion to a greater cause, especially in the line: “Nước mắt anh hùng lau chẳng ráo, thương vì hai chữ thiên dân; cây hương nghĩa sĩ thắp thêm thơm, cám bởi một câu vương thổ”, which not only expresses sorrow and remembrance but also exalts their contributions in comparison to the imperial court.

The language is simple, close to everyday speech, and imbued with the distinct tone of the South. Through this, the author creates a vivid, sincere, and lively portrayal of the peasant-hero, who for the first time is depicted as noble and dignified. The emotional depth in the writing adds a lyrical quality to the elegy, making it easily resonate with readers.

Through simple yet powerful language, 'Văn tế nghĩa sĩ Cần Giuộc' successfully immortalizes the tragic heroism of the peasant-heroes, while Nguyễn Đình Chiểu also expresses his deep respect and sorrow for their unyielding sacrifice and courage.

“In the sky, there are stars with an extraordinary light... our eyes must focus intently to see them, and the more we look, the brighter they shine.” This is the description by the late Prime Minister Pham Van Dong about the life and poetry of Do Chieu. Nguyen Dinh Chieu, the blind poet, had a heart that remained luminous. When his name is mentioned, one cannot forget his masterpiece 'Văn tế nghĩa sĩ Cần Giuộc,' the most remarkable and successful work in the genre of the funeral poetry, leaving a profound impression on readers.

The work expresses gratitude, sorrow, and admiration for the brave and self-sacrificing farmers of Cần Giuộc who fought for the country’s independence. To analyze the poem in the most comprehensive and unique way, we choose to look at it from the perspective of the farmers’ patriotic spirit.

The farmers were originally simple rural folk, but their profound love for the nation and deep hatred for the invaders transformed them into fearless warriors who sacrificed their lives during the battle in November 1861, a crucial period of the early resistance against the French colonizers.

Why did this happen? Because 'The gunfire of the enemy shakes the earth; the hearts of the people are clear as the sky'—a succinct phrase that encapsulates the state of the country at that time. In 1858, the French colonizers invaded Vietnam, occupying the land and imposing oppressive policies that pushed the people to the brink of despair. This phrase illustrates the brutality of the colonizers. They had advanced weaponry with devastating power, their guns roaring across the land. This recalls the crimes committed by the French in the poem 'Chạy giặc' (Fleeing the Enemy):

'The market collapses upon hearing the French gunfire,

A game of chess ruined in an instant,

Leaving behind children fleeing in panic,

Birds scatter in confusion.'

The mindless gunfire of the invaders left no one untouched, and no place was spared. Everything became desolate and chaotic after the 'French gunfire.' The enemy was far superior to us in terms of weaponry, material resources, and the number of soldiers, while we only had our hearts filled with patriotism and the unyielding spirit of the Vietnamese people.

The technique of parallelism was skillfully employed: ten years – one battle, material – spirit, victory as fleeting as foam – defeat as silent as the sound of a bell, showing the resolve to fight the enemy, paving the way for the emergence of the farmers. The familiar cry of 'Alas!' at the beginning of the funeral poem conveys sorrow and mourns the souls of the heroic fallen soldiers.

The poet reflects on and portrays the image of the farmers of Cần Giuộc—simple countryfolk with an unwavering spirit of patriotism. The phrase 'Remembering the old spirit' captures their essence. They were initially humble farmers, 'struggling to survive in poverty,' as Hoai Thanh once observed, 'So much love is embodied in the phrase 'struggling.'' The poet expresses deep sympathy for these hardworking, humble people.

They were honest, simple folk, familiar only with the work of the farm. Their world was confined to 'the village fields,' where daily tasks such as plowing, tilling, and sowing consumed their time. They had no knowledge of warfare, swords, or spears: 'Unfamiliar with the bow and horse, never having attended a military school,' and 'no experience with shields, guns, spears, or flags.' Despite these inabilities, when the enemy invaded, they rose to defend the nation with heroic determination.

Initially, they looked to the imperial court for help, hoping for a counterattack, but faced with the court's weakness, the people expressed their despair: 'The sound of the wind and crane's cry grows louder with each passing month, waiting for news from the authorities as one waits for rain during a drought.' The 'wind and crane's cry' refers to the anxiety and fear of the impending attack by the enemy.

As citizens, they could only rely on their government to bring peace, but after months of waiting, they could not stand by and watch the country fall to the invaders. Before, they only despised the French for their 'stinky oils'—an evocative metaphor for the vile nature of the colonizers—'like the way farmers despise weeds.'

This feeling was only amplified when they saw the French forces: 'The sight of the white smoke rising from the chimneys,' 'the sight of the black smoke from the factory chimneys,' leading to an intense desire for revenge, 'wanting to eat their livers,' 'wanting to bite their necks.' Their hatred reached a boiling point, culminating in the following phrases: 'A massive letter from afar, should we allow anyone to strike the snake and chase the deer? Two blazing suns, should we allow the wolves to sell the goat?'

The use of literary references and idiomatic expressions, particularly the phrase 'selling goats to hang dogs,' emphasizes their resolve to resist the French invaders. The mask of 'civilization' and 'missionary work' imposed by the French was unveiled, revealing their true intent to conquer Vietnam.

The farmers' strong sense of nationalism and the brutality of the French were the driving forces behind their rebellion. The poet admires their courage and determination, which stands in stark contrast to the limited resources of the farmers. They did not wait for orders; they fought on their own accord: 'Now they will fight with all their might, unwilling to flee, determined to face the enemy like warriors.' The poet vividly expresses their bravery through energetic verbs and phrases: 'Pushing through the barricades,' 'busting down doors,' 'striking from the side, slashing from behind.' These convey a spirit of relentless resolve and determination, reminiscent of the heroic age of the Tran Dynasty.

They 'rose from the mud, shining bright'—fighting with only crude tools of labor, like a tattered shirt, bamboo poles, straw hats, and sickles. They were not trained soldiers, lacked organization, discipline, or weapons. Yet, their 'lack' made their 'strength' all the more remarkable. They fought because of their unwavering resolve and patriotic spirit, a hatred of the enemy so deep that they charged ahead without fear of their weapons or bullets. They attacked with such ferocity that the enemy was left terrified.

The poem’s tone shifts from triumphant to sorrowful. The opening phrase 'How sad' in the third section and the exclamation 'Alas!' at the conclusion express the poet's deep grief and compassion. The poet mourns the hardships endured by the farmers: 'eating snow and lying on bones,' 'swaying in the storm.'

The poet emphasizes that the spirit of the people will endure, asserting that 'to follow our ancestors is to be honored,' but to bow before invaders is to be enslaved. Behind the mournful cries of sorrow is the poet's wish for peace and the liberation of the people from suffering.

Though blind and unable to join the battlefield, Nguyen Dinh Chieu remained a key figure in the resistance against the French, working alongside the leaders of the insurgents to devise strategies for fighting the enemy. Even when the French occupied the southern region, they tried to bribe and coerce him, but the steadfast poet rejected their offers and remained loyal to the Vietnamese people.

'Văn tế nghĩa sĩ Cần Giuộc' stands as Nguyen Dinh Chieu’s most accomplished funeral poem. The work made significant contributions to Vietnamese literature, with its innovative portrayal of Vietnamese farmers and the unique literary techniques employed. Firstly, the poem introduced the image of the Vietnamese farmer for the first time in literature, capturing their humble demeanor, character, emotions, and clear sentiments. Secondly, the subject matter reflected the real-world situation of the country at that time. Notably, the poem marks a shift in the author's mindset, moving from loyalty to realism and reducing idealized expressions. The work became a weapon for resistance, combating both the invaders and the traitorous forces that sought to undermine the country.

Furthermore, the poem is written in the traditional 'phú' form, using rhyme and a distinctive tone. The language is simple and vivid, with a rural flavor, incorporating evocative imagery: 'struggling,' 'smelly,' 'straw hats,' 'sickles,' and many more. The poem also utilizes idiomatic expressions, allusions, and symbolism to convey its message. The contrast between the contrasting tones, such as the triumphant and sorrowful, is a hallmark of the work’s power.

All these elements contribute to the creation of the image of the Cần Giuộc farmers—brave people who sacrificed everything for the great cause of independence. Their spirit became an immense force, sweeping away all obstacles, overpowering all difficulties, and drowning the enemies who sold out the nation. This powerful image has left a lasting mark on Vietnamese literature and remains a shining example for future generations of Vietnamese youth.

Before the French invasion, Do Chieu's works were primarily narrative poetry, such as the epic of Lục Vân Tiên, which conveyed moral lessons. However, after 1858, his poetry became a powerful force in the anti-French resistance, promoting patriotism. 'Văn tế nghĩa sĩ Cần Giuộc' played a crucial role in establishing Nguyen Dinh Chieu as a national literary star, radiating brilliance in his unique way in the sky of Vietnamese literature.