Top 11 Essays Analyzing the Work 'The Heroic Ambition' Extracted from 'The Tale of Kiều' by Nguyễn Du

Nguyễn Du is a great poet of our nation, and when we talk about his success, we cannot overlook his masterpiece, 'The Tale of Kiều.' This work is filled with profound humanitarian values and has become an endless topic of discussion and study. In this masterpiece, besides the characters Thúy Vân and Thúy Kiều, there is another character who leaves a strong impression on the readers, despite appearing in just a brief section: Từ Hải, featured in the excerpt 'The Heroic Ambition.'

As we know, after falling into a trap and suffering greatly, Kiều was rescued from her suffering by Từ Hải, who saw her noble qualities. Despite the love between Từ Hải and Thúy Kiều, their ambition to build a career could not be hindered. Thus, six months later, Từ Hải continued his journey to establish his fortune:

“Nửa năm hương lửa đương nồng

Trượng phu thoắt đã động lòng bốn phương

Trông vời trời bể mênh mang

Thanh gươm yên ngựa lên đường thẳng rong”

After half a year, despite the fiery love and passion between them, it could not prevent Từ Hải’s ambition. The phrase “trời bể mênh mang” symbolizes a vast and extraordinary vision, one that shows a man who cannot be deterred by love, family, or anything else. The image of the sword and the horse “on the straight path” reflects Từ Hải’s calm and determined demeanor.

The farewell scene between Kiều and Từ Hải is depicted starkly differently from other farewells in the tale, such as those with Kim Trọng or Thúc Sinh. At this point, Từ Hải is in a completely different situation, ready with his sword on horseback, prepared to leave, with the whole world as his home. He might wander, but he is undeterred. Kiều understands this but still asks to accompany him to care for him:

“Nàng rằng: Phận gái chữ tòng

Chàng đi thiếp cũng quyết lòng xin đi”

Through the concept of 'tòng phu,' Thúy Kiều does not ask for anything but merely wishes to follow her husband, sharing in his duties. For Kiều, Từ Hải is not just a husband but also the benefactor who saved her. However, Từ Hải has already made his decision:

“Từ rằng: Tâm phúc tương tri

Sao chưa thoát khỏi nữ nhi thường tình

Bao giờ mười vạn tinh binh

Tiếng chiêng dậy đất, bóng tinh rợp đường

Làm cho rõ mặt phi thường

Bấy giờ ta sẽ rước nàng nghi gia.”

Từ Hải responds with a gentle rebuke, saying that while Kiều is of noble character, she is still bound by “nữ nhi thường tình” (the usual emotional concerns of a woman). He assures her that once he has built his fortune, with an army of ten thousand soldiers and resounding triumph, he will come back for her, not only giving her a position but also elevating her status.

This is the moment that most clearly reveals Từ Hải’s heroic spirit. He is not bound by love or emotional ties but is resolute in his mission to build his career. He does not express sorrow or longing during the farewell but instead asserts his path to success. Yet, despite his resolve, he subtly shows concern for Kiều:

“Bằng ngay bốn bể không nhà

Theo càng thêm bận, biết là đi đâu

Đành lòng chờ đó ít lâu

Chầy chăng là một năm sau vội gì”

Fully aware of the hardships that lie ahead, Từ Hải urges Kiều to stay behind as following him would only bring her distress. His promise to return within a year reassures her that the wait will not be long. The excerpt concludes with Từ Hải’s unwavering decision:

“Quyết lời dứt áo ra đi

Gió mây bằng đã đến kì dặm khơi”

Từ Hải’s determination is at its peak, and nothing can stop him. Through this, Nguyễn Du masterfully portrays the heroism of Từ Hải, a character who embodies idealism and noble aspirations in a society that was still constrained. This passage strengthens the character’s image, making him a heroic and virtuous figure in the masterpiece 'The Tale of Kiều.'

The Tale of Kiều is one of the greatest masterpieces in Vietnamese literature, written by Nguyễn Du. With his talent and heart, Nguyễn Du creatively employs language and artistry, coupled with a deep understanding and empathy, to portray the turbulent life of Thúy Kiều and the loves she experiences, filled with sorrow. Among them is the hero Từ Hải, portrayed in the excerpt 'The Heroic Spirit'.

Thúy Kiều lived in the confines of a brothel, but fate smiled upon her when she met Từ Hải, who rescued her and took her as his wife. After six months of blissful love, Từ Hải, eager to build a grand career, bid farewell to Thúy Kiều, and his departure is depicted in the following four lines:

Half a year of fragrant love fading,

The hero quickly stirred, his heart drawn far and wide.

Gazing at the vast sky and sea,

With his sword sheathed and his steed prepared, he rides away.

As we know, a 'hero' is someone with a great ambition, with plans and talents that encompass the entire universe, someone with a will as immense as the sky and earth. When he decisively leaves, leaving behind the brief joy of their married life, he carries with him his lofty goals and is driven by a mission that cannot be stopped. The hero stands facing the vastness of the sky and sea, in control of all, majestic and determined: 'the sword sheathed, the steed ready'. His posture is a strong and resolute one. The image of Từ Hải evokes memories of the heroic figure of a warrior:

His red robe is like the sunset's glow,

His white steed as pure as snow.

Indeed, Từ Hải is a hero with a vision that cannot be confined to a narrow space; he must go on a journey to free himself. In the scene of Từ Hải's departure, the author subtly suggests that he must be ready with his sword and steed before saying farewell to Kiều. Knowing that her husband will wander far and wide, living a life under the open sky, Thúy Kiều remains steadfast and supportive, willing to share in his burdens as a loving wife. She persuades Từ Hải with the traditional values of marital devotion, expressing her sincere feelings, showcasing a deep understanding of the situation. However, the hero, Từ Hải, gently speaks to Kiều with the wisdom of a soulmate:

He said: 'My true confidante, do you understand?

Why are you still bound by the emotions of a woman?

When will you see ten thousand soldiers,

With the sound of war drums shaking the earth and stars filling the sky?

Only then will you understand what it means to be extraordinary,

And I will return to bring you home as my wife.'

'For now, the four corners of the world offer no home,

But come along, you will only increase my burdens. Where shall we go?'

'Be patient, it will only be a short wait,

A year is but a short time.'

Từ Hải's words, 'My true confidante, do you understand?' express his respect for Kiều, hoping she will comprehend his reasoning. With his sharp intellect and compassionate heart, Từ Hải seeks to achieve a grand victory, one that will bring love, trust, and respect to Thúy Kiều. His success will bring him the happiness he has always desired—a fulfillment of both his career and love, a happiness truly worthy of a hero.

Từ Hải, both in the past and present, continues to carry a deep confidence that he will master everything. With only his sword and steed, and an unshakable will, Từ Hải believes he will possess 'ten thousand soldiers,' their arrival heralded by the sound of 'war drums shaking the earth,' bringing glory and happiness to the woman he loves. The certainty of his words, 'next year,' instills a firm belief in Thúy Kiều. Everything about Từ Hải—his will, posture, actions, and talents—embodies an extraordinary essence. This is what makes the author admire and respect him, calling him a 'hero, a man of extraordinary stature,' and places the hero in a vast, expansive space, praising him without reserve.

In the excerpt from 'The Heroic Spirit,' Từ Hải embodies the heroic ideal of Nguyễn Du: to overcome the ordinary and mundane to strive for the extraordinary, to possess extraordinary qualities to become an ideal person, a model for generations to come.

Nguyễn Du is a great Vietnamese writer and poet, often referred to as a national literary genius. Throughout his life, Nguyễn Du created numerous valuable works, with his most outstanding being the epic "The Tale of Kiều." The excerpt from "The Heroic Spirit" is one of the more prominent excerpts, in which Nguyễn Du vividly describes the portrait and ambition of the hero Từ Hải, who strives to build a great career.

In this excerpt, Nguyễn Du emphasizes and highlights the willpower and virtues of Từ Hải. Compared to the character Từ Hải in the novel "Kim Vân Kiều" by the same author, Từ Hải here is portrayed as a true hero, not just a bandit as in the original depiction. This Từ Hải is a man with extraordinary strength, courage, and determination, a figure who embodies the ideal traits of a traditional hero.

When Thúy Kiều was sinking in despair and trapped in the corrupt and painful world of the brothel, Từ Hải appeared and rescued her. Through Từ Hải's efforts, Thúy Kiều was able to exact revenge and find happiness in a normal marriage. Though the life of a couple was blissful, it could not conceal Từ Hải's larger aspirations. Thus, despite his deep love for Thúy Kiều, Từ Hải had to leave her to pursue his ambitions:

“Half a year of warm incense, flourishing

Yet the hero's heart stirred toward distant lands”

Looking out at the vast sky and ocean

With a sharp sword and steadied horse, he rides off.”

Thúy Kiều and Từ Hải had a peaceful half-year together, but Từ Hải's heroic ambition led him to "stir toward distant lands." The use of symbolic language highlights Từ Hải's desire to make his mark and build a lasting legacy. Despite his love for Thúy Kiều, the ambition of the hero could not be ignored, and he knew he must leave to achieve his larger destiny, with a future that remained vast and uncertain but filled with promise.

For Thúy Kiều, Từ Hải was not just a loving husband but also the man who saved her from the brothel. When he decided to leave, although she knew she could not stop him, she still wanted to go with him to take care of him and assist him in his endeavors:

“She said: A woman's place is to follow her husband

Where you go, I will also choose to follow.”

Thúy Kiều upheld the Confucian belief of "a wife must follow her husband" and desired to accompany Từ Hải to care for him. Từ Hải, deeply moved by her sincerity, declined because he feared for her well-being in such a harsh life. As a consolation, he promised that once he had achieved greatness, he would return to marry her in a grand manner:

“Từ said: My dear, you still don’t understand

You have not yet risen above the typical female role

When I have ten thousand soldiers

The sound of drums will shake the earth, the sky will be covered with banners

Then I will bring you back in grandeur.”

Từ Hải saw that Thúy Kiều had not yet risen above the typical feminine role, and his refusal was as much for her protection as for his own determination. As a true hero, Từ Hải was determined to achieve greatness and, once victorious, he would return for her in a grand procession. This conversation highlights the hero's ambition and determination, as well as his love and care for Thúy Kiều.

Through Từ Hải's words, we see the scale of his heroic ambition. Though he tells Thúy Kiều that her following him might complicate things, the main reason for his refusal was his desire to shield her from hardship. He feared she would not adjust to the life of a wandering hero:

“In the vastness of the world, there is no place to call home

Following me would bring more trouble, who knows where we would go?”

To put her mind at ease, Từ Hải assured her that his journey would only last a year. He comforted her with the promise of a future filled with victory and glory, saying he would return to her in triumph:

“Wait for me, it won’t be long

It will only be a year, what’s the rush?”

The farewell between Từ Hải and Thúy Kiều is not one of tearful words, but rather a pledge for a victorious future. Through this, we see Từ Hải’s heroic spirit, a man who expresses his love through actions rather than words.

The excerpt "The Heroic Spirit" successfully portrays the image of Từ Hải, the hero who defies the heavens and treads the earth, a man of deep emotions, yet with a colossal ambition and an unyielding will to succeed. His spirit and determination are what set him apart as a true hero.

The Tale of Kiều is one of Nguyễn Du's masterpieces, and is a pinnacle of Vietnamese literature. The work not only illustrates the tragic fate of Kiều, who suffers many injustices, but also highlights the one person who truly loves and protects her—Từ Hải. His character is best embodied in the excerpt "The Heroic Spirit".

After enduring numerous hardships, Thúy Kiều finally meets Từ Hải, a hero of exceptional stature, "head touching the sky, feet treading the earth" at that time. Upon meeting Kiều, Từ Hải deeply values her and expresses his feelings with the words: "One word, we know each other/ From then on, we are one". Thúy Kiều lives with him in marital bliss for half a year, but then Từ Hải, driven by ambition, decides to leave to build a monumental career. The poem begins with the lines:

Half a year of love, the flames still burning

The heroic heart quickly stirred to travel the world

At the start of their marriage, their love was at its most passionate and beautiful. If they were ordinary people, they would have been content to live in such bliss. But Từ Hải was extraordinary, as evident from his appearance: "A tiger's beard, a swallow's jaw, broad shoulders, and a tall body". His intellect and physical strength far surpass others, and thus he is not satisfied with a peaceful life. Determined to leave, he takes action.

The "heart of four directions" refers to his ambition to build a career and establish a name in the world, which was expected of a man in feudal society. In this society, a man had to create a significant legacy that would last through the ages. The "four directions" also represent the entire world, signifying Từ Hải's ambition to conquer all. Nguyễn Du skillfully uses the word "quickly" to convey the hero's swift decision to act once his resolve is made, showing his strength and will to embrace the world.

Gazing out at the vast, endless sky and sea

The sword at his side, riding his steed, heading straight on

Từ Hải's action is decisive, without hesitation: he moves straight ahead, with calm composure, embodying the spirit of a true man. His unhesitating departure is also evident in his conversation with Thúy Kiều, where she expresses her desire to follow him as part of the traditional role of a wife: "As a woman, I am bound to follow my husband/ Where you go, I will go". Thúy Kiều wishes to accompany Từ Hải, hoping to support him and share the burdens of life. However, Từ Hải, while understanding her desire, responds: "You have yet to overcome the common ways of women".

Từ Hải's reproach shows his wish for her to rise above the ordinary expectations for women, encouraging her to strive to be the true companion he needs. Behind this remark lies Từ Hải's confidence in his own greatness and his belief that anyone accompanying him must be extraordinary.

Before departing, Từ Hải promises Thúy Kiều: "When I have ten thousand soldiers/ The sound of drums shaking the earth, the sight of soldiers flooding the streets/ I will return and take you as my wife". The use of large numbers, such as ten thousand, and powerful verbs like "shake the earth" and "flood the streets", shows Từ Hải's confidence in his future success. He promises that after a year, he will have built his great career and will return to bring Thúy Kiều into a life of honor and happiness. This is not only a promise to Kiều, but also a display of Từ Hải's self-assurance and recognition of his own potential. Furthermore, Từ Hải reassures Kiều with: "For now, the four seas have no home/ Going along would only make things more difficult and uncertain".

His final departure is expressed with a sense of certainty and clarity: "The wind and clouds have gathered, it's time to set sail". The vastness of the scene reflects the hero's grand aspirations, akin to the soaring bird, the "giant bird" that symbolizes Từ Hải's ambition to build a great legacy. The imagery of the bird soaring with the wind mirrors Từ Hải setting off on his journey.

The success of the work lies in the artful development of Từ Hải's character. He is depicted as a symbolic figure, whose actions and gestures express his larger-than-life stature. Từ Hải stands as a man of tremendous ambition, representing both the individual and the hero's journey to greatness.

The excerpt from "The Heroic Spirit" successfully portrays Từ Hải as a hero with an immense spirit and a profound sense of purpose. Through Từ Hải, Nguyễn Du conveys a longing for freedom and justice in the old society.

Reunions and farewells—these are two sides of the same process. They are natural laws in human life, as well as the unspoken emotional rules that are hard to articulate. That is why farewells have become timeless, an endless source of inspiration for poets and writers. From the familiar folk verse: "Who divides the moon in two; Who draws the winding path, oh, my love?" to the line from *The Tale of Kiều* by Nguyễn Du: "The moon, who divides it in two; Half in my pillow, half in the distant journey" and even in *The Red Farewell* (Nguyễn Mĩ), we encounter the sparkling, burning tears of those who stay and those who leave. Yet, there is one farewell that leaves a lasting impression on readers through its heroic spirit, filled with optimistic, bright faith, unlike the one that reads:

The man mounts the horse, the other parts the robe,

As the maples in autumn dye the imperial battlefield.

This is the farewell between Từ Hải and Thuý Kiều as he sets off to lead a rebellion. The passage *Chí khí anh hùng* (from *The Tale of Kiều*) is part of a tragic tale of misfortune and exile spanning fifteen years. After her second fall into the brothel, Thuý Kiều meets Từ Hải, a hero who will rescue her from the painful life of a courtesan. He embodies the ideals of justice and morality that Nguyễn Du imparts in the work. He represents the author’s complex emotions and unsolvable contradictions.

After this special meeting, in such extraordinary circumstances, Thuý Kiều and Từ Hải find harmony in their souls. There is both a genuine understanding and mutual empathy between them. The emotional gaps in their hearts are filled and shared through love. This matching of spirits creates a fairy-tale ending when:

Heroic men and graceful women

Swear to match phoenixes and ride dragons in beauty.

Before we explore this excerpt, we must first understand what makes Từ Hải so special, why Nguyễn Du chose to create him as an ideal hero. With a single horse and sword, Từ Hải wields the sword of justice to save the oppressed and elevate their dreams to soar high and far. The appearance of this new character in the story of Thuý Kiều’s fate holds significant artistic value. Từ Hải’s image reflects not only a novel and free approach to romantic relationships but also the figure of a hero who transcends societal conventions.

One life, how many heroes

Is it worth playing in a cage and a birdcage?

This simple and sincere remark from Từ Hải to Thuý Kiều serves as a subtle confession, breaking down the barriers that often arise between heroic figures and ordinary people like Kiều. Nguyễn Du has an exceptional talent for creating and vividly developing the personality of each character, particularly Từ Hải. More than any other figure in the work, Từ Hải reflects the yearning for freedom, a freedom that goes beyond traditional ethics and the established political order of the feudal system.

The image of Từ Hải—someone who dismantles injustices and defends the oppressed through courage and personal talent—forms a rich and profound theme in *The Tale of Kiều*. Từ Hải appears to break the chains that feudal society uses to constrain people. He challenges the king’s authority and values freedom above all else:

He stirs the heavens and stirs the waters,

He knows not who rules over the skies and earth!

With this bold spirit of freedom, he is not like the scene:

The silken robes bind them together,

What use is the pursuit of power and titles?

Instead, Từ Hải stands boldly between heaven and earth, fulfilling his heroic desires:

The rivers and lakes know the ways of resistance

With one sword, I row through the country alone.

The imagery of the bow and sword creates a new dimension in Từ Hải's character. Like Kim Trọng, Từ Hải possesses a noble and poetic soul. But unlike other characters in the work, Từ Hải captivates the readers with his rebellious and generous nature. Nguyễn Du portrays him as an extraordinary hero with a remarkable character, yet when standing before Kiều, "The woman's heart also sways the hero." However, Từ Hải always stands firm in his principles and the greater good. His emotions and ideals are united, but they are not identical. Thus:

Six months of warm affection,

The hero’s heart moves in all directions,

Looking out over the vast sky and sea,

His sword and horse are ready for battle.

Living in the warmth of love, at the height of marital bliss, Từ Hải still does not forget his great mission. As Nguyễn Công Trứ said:

The ambition of a man stretches across the north, south, west, and east,

To unleash his power in all four seas.

This ambition in Từ Hải aligns with his bold personality—he stands tall in life. His departure is firm, without the reluctance seen in Thúc Sinh’s farewell to Thuý Kiều. There is no sentimental attachment between them; rather, Từ Hải's departure marks the beginning of something greater. The ideal hero in *The Tale of Kiều* stands against the vast universe, symbolizing the hero’s magnitude with lines like "His sword and horse are ready for battle".

In just four short lines, Nguyễn Du masterfully sketches the image of a hero made of flesh and blood. His language conveys admiration and respect. The description is distinct, expanding the space and time to match the character’s grandeur. The hero does not want to be burdened by feminine attachments, nor is he swayed by the pleading words of his wife.

She said: "A woman's duty is to follow."

"You go, I will follow you with all my heart."

Though Thuý Kiều is deep and perceptive, she cannot escape the pull of marital affection. She wishes only to accompany Từ Hải to fulfill her duty as a wife, without understanding his larger mission. Thus, Từ Hải gently chides her for her misunderstanding, implying that they know each other’s hearts so well that there is no need for her to worry about following him as tradition dictates. He reassures her to wait at home for good news:

When the army of ten thousand soldiers arrives,

The sound of bells shaking the earth will fill the streets.

Then, I will come back to marry you properly.

For now, between heaven and earth, there is no home. If you go with me, you will only add to my worries. We do not even know where we are going. So, be patient and wait just one or two years.

Then, Từ Hải:

Firm in his resolve, he took off his robes and left,

The wind carried his departure as he sailed away.

The image of the giant bird drawn from the fable represents a great hero who stirs the waters across three thousand miles, symbolizing those with extraordinary abilities and ambitions. Nguyễn Du likens Từ Hải to this mythical bird, soaring with the wind and clouds. A person who always longs for the open sky, free from the confinements of ordinary life.

When depicting Từ Hải, Nguyễn Du emphasizes the powerful, decisive actions and words: "Swiftly, directly, unyielding, extraordinary, hurried, firm resolve, leaving..." He uses classical references, cultural allusions, and constructs expansive time and space: half a year, the four directions, the vast sky and sea, and the giant bird...

In conclusion, with just a short passage, the image of Từ Hải emerges as a hero from a grand dream, a dream cherished by millions of oppressed souls. Thus, Nguyễn Du applied unique artistic methods to express his aspirations and the spirit of his time—a longing for freedom, justice, and righteousness. Through a farewell, he conveys the heroic spirit of Từ Hải.

The Tale of Kiều is not only remarkable for its artistic language but also for its unique and profound content. Nguyễn Du reflected an unjust and cruel social reality, trampling on human rights, particularly those of women. This imbued the Tale of Kiều with a deep sense of humanitarian spirit. By introducing Từ Hải – a hero with the world under his feet – as a creative element in the plot, Nguyễn Du expressed his vision of a fair and free society. The heroic qualities and dignified character of Từ Hải are vividly portrayed in the excerpt 'The Heroic Spirit.' After being trapped in the brothel for the second time, Thúy Kiều’s life seemed utterly hopeless.

In the midst of rising despair, Từ Hải unexpectedly appears. Từ Hải approaches Thúy Kiều as if seeking a kindred spirit, someone who understands him. In the murky depths of the brothel, Từ Hải perceives the noble character of Thúy Kiều with his discerning eyes. From their first encounter, Kiều silently affirms that Từ Hải is the only one who can help her overcome the injustices she has suffered. After their special meeting, Kiều and Từ Hải discover a deep spiritual connection. The two emotional voids are filled, and they share their love. This mutual harmony creates a hopeful ending:

The hero and the delicate maiden
Vowed to be together, like the phoenix with its beautiful mate.

Just as their love is blossoming after 'half a year,' Từ Hải leaves to fulfill his grand mission:

Half a year in fragrant smoke, still fresh
The heroic man stirs the hearts of the four directions
Looking out towards the vast heavens and oceans
With a sword in hand, he embarks on his journey without delay.

Though their love is still strong after six months, 'half a year in fragrant smoke, still fresh,' Từ Hải’s heart is set on achieving greater goals, on building a remarkable career. Thus, his departure to 'stir the hearts of the four directions' makes perfect sense. The 'four directions' here symbolically represent Từ Hải's ambitions, which elevate him to a truly extraordinary stature. No matter what, love or anything else, nothing can hold him back. In 3,254 verses of Kiều, Nguyễn Du uses the word 'heroic man' only once for Từ Hải, highlighting his admiration and respect for him. Nguyễn Du presents Từ Hải’s image alongside the grandeur of the heavens and earth.

When thinking of Từ Hải, one is reminded of the vastness of the universe. The use of expressive words emphasizing size and height further enhances Từ Hải’s imposing stance. His gaze is not ordinary but rather 'looking afar,' symbolizing insight and extraordinary thinking. The image of 'the sword at rest, the steed ready to gallop' portrays the hero's confident, unburdened demeanor as he embarks on his journey to establish his career. For Thúy Kiều, Từ Hải is not just a husband but also a benefactor, a soul mate. Thus, when Từ Hải decides to leave to fulfill his mission, Thúy Kiều expresses her desire to follow him and support him:

She said: As a woman, I must follow
If you go, I too shall go.

Kiều knows that Từ Hải is leaving in a world 'without a home,' but still, she is determined to follow him. The word 'follow' is not just a simple Confucian notion of women following their husbands, but carries the deeper meaning of sharing the burden and supporting Từ Hải in his endeavors. In response to Kiều’s plea, Từ Hải rebukes her:

Từ said: You are my confidante
Why haven’t you transcended the usual feminine concerns?

Từ Hải’s words are both a reprimand and a reminder for Kiều to be stronger. He believes that, as his 'confidante,' Kiều must understand, encourage, and share in his mission. She must rise above the typical emotional attachment that binds women and allow Từ Hải to embark on his journey with peace of mind. Someday, Từ Hải will return in triumph, bringing Kiều back with honor:

When the ten thousand soldiers arrive
The sound of gongs will shake the earth, and the shadow will cover the path
To reveal extraordinary achievement
Then I will bring you home as my bride.

Through his promise to Thúy Kiều, Từ Hải’s grand ambitions are revealed. Nguyễn Du uses terms like 'ten thousand soldiers' and 'the sound of gongs shaking the earth' to evoke the hero’s vast and cosmic aspirations. The desire to 'make a mark of extraordinary achievement' represents his ambition to create a renowned career, one that surpasses all others. This success will serve as the 'dowry' for Từ Hải to bring his soulmate, 'his bride,' to his home.

The words of Từ Hải in this farewell scene further highlight his heroic spirit. Rather than expressing sorrow or reluctance, he speaks of dreams and a firm belief in his inevitable success. Từ Hải also shows his heroic nature by asserting that Kiều’s accompanying him would only 'add to the burden,' though deep inside, he worries about the hardships she might endure. Nonetheless, he believes in his success:

Though the world is without a home
Following me will add to the burden, but where will we go?
Wait patiently, it will be only a year, there’s no rush!

There is no hesitation or sorrow in Từ Hải’s departure; instead, his farewell is marked by a resolute promise, a firm belief in victory in the near future. The final two lines further reinforce this determination:

With a firm resolve, I leave
The wind and clouds will take me to new heights.

Nguyễn Du draws on the image of the eagle in classical literature, symbolizing the extraordinary ambition of heroes. Từ Hải’s sudden departure, the firm farewell, and his unwavering faith in success reveal his heroic spirit. It’s as though he is ready to soar into the heavens, riding the winds and clouds. This image is inspired by Zhuangzi’s description of the eagle flying across the sky, traveling nine thousand miles without rest, in contrast to smaller birds that hop on branches. This symbolizes the exhilarating moment of triumph for an extraordinary person as they depart from the farewell scene.

Nguyễn Du’s use of language, imagery, and idealized descriptions successfully transforms Từ Hải into an extraordinary figure, full of noble qualities and vibrant character. Từ Hải emerges as a heroic figure, resolute, swift, dignified, and with grand aspirations. His image is perfectly aligned with the ideals of the hero in the masterpiece, The Tale of Kiều, representing Nguyễn Du’s dream of a free and just society.

Parting is a timeless theme found across both Eastern and Western literature, one of the four great human tragedies: birth, death, separation, and reunion. In the excerpt from "Heroic Ambition," the great poet Nguyễn Du masterfully portrays the separation between Thúy Kiều and Từ Hải without invoking the sorrow often associated with such farewells. Instead, it highlights Từ Hải’s heroic image, a man with grand aspirations, indomitable spirit, and a desire to achieve extraordinary feats. The first four lines of the excerpt depict Từ Hải’s departure:

"Half a year of warm, fragrant smoke
The hero’s heart stirs to the four directions.
Gazing at the vast heavens and seas,
With a sword at rest and steed ready, he departs without hesitation."

The first line introduces Từ Hải’s situation just before leaving: "Half a year of warm, fragrant smoke." The poet cleverly uses the metaphor "fragrant smoke" combined with the time frame of "half a year" to evoke the warmth of a love that is at its peak. Nguyễn Du places Từ Hải’s departure in the setting of family, rather than war, which underscores the extraordinary nature of the character. After all, the sweetness of love is both a motivation and, at times, a weakness that has caused many heroes to be lost to beauty throughout history.

In such a moment, Từ Hải’s ability to depart reflects his resolve and strength as a man of great will. In the entire work, Nguyễn Du uses the word "hero" only once to describe Từ Hải, highlighting and celebrating his grand spirit. The hero in Nguyễn Du's poetry, even when immersed in love’s happiness, can decisively turn away when faced with a greater destiny. The word "swiftly" conveys the forceful, determined action, awakening Từ Hải’s inner hero, marking the end of a love song and the beginning of an epic.

Images like "heart to the four directions" and "the vast heavens and seas" symbolize the ambition to achieve fame and fortune, painting Từ Hải as a figure of extraordinary stature with a bold, unyielding spirit. It can be said that nothing, not even love, can halt his path. "The sword at rest and steed ready" symbolizes the hero’s composed, dignified manner, representing his journey to build his career, affirming himself with a sword and steed, charging into battle. Upon Từ Hải’s decision to depart, Kiều does not try to stop him but instead expresses her desire to follow him, fulfilling the Confucian principle of "tòng":

"She said: As a woman, I must follow
If you go, I too shall go."

These lines beautifully express Kiều’s reasoning and emotions: from a moral standpoint, as a wife, she must follow her husband; from an emotional standpoint, as a couple, they must be united, sharing both the joys and burdens of life. Kiều’s words reflect their deep, inseparable bond.

In response to her unwavering wish to accompany him, Từ Hải, as a true confidant, advises her not to follow the conventional path of a typical woman. Understanding each other deeply, Từ Hải promises a bright future filled with success and a powerful army, a time when he will "reveal his extraordinary face" and claim victory as his "dowry" to bring Kiều home as his bride. The moment he achieves success will be the moment he restores Kiều’s honor:

"I will reveal my extraordinary face
Then I will bring you home as my bride."

After this promise, Từ Hải gently advises Kiều, warning her of the hardships that come with his mission. Deep down, his concern reflects his love for Kiều, not wanting her to endure the hardships of wandering the world, "with no home in sight." The closing lines of the excerpt show Từ Hải’s firm resolve to leave, accompanied by the image of a majestic bird soaring high amidst the wind and clouds:

"With a firm resolve, I leave
The wind and clouds will carry me to new heights."

This reflects the hero’s desire for freedom, and he will only return once victorious, having achieved his dreams.

In this excerpt from "Heroic Ambition," Nguyễn Du has created a hero with a completely new ideal, showcasing his unique literary talent and profound ideas. Từ Hải is portrayed not only with grand ambitions and cosmic dreams but also with a compassionate heart, deeply caring for his confidante.

To thoroughly analyze the "Heroic Ambition" excerpt from Nguyễn Du's "The Tale of Kiều," we can focus on the following points:

1. General Introduction:

• Author Nguyễn Du: Briefly introduce the biography and literary career of Nguyễn Du.
• "The Tale of Kiều": Summarize the content, structure, and significance of "The Tale of Kiều."
• Position of the "Heroic Ambition" excerpt: Place this excerpt in the context of the entire work and explain its importance within the story.
  
  

2. Character Analysis of Từ Hải:

• Heroic image: Từ Hải is depicted as a figure with grand ambitions, setting him apart from other characters in "The Tale of Kiều."
  • Từ Hải symbolizes freedom, refusing to submit to fate and the feudal society.

• Bravery and determination: Analyze the lines that reflect Từ Hải's courage, resilience, and determination.
  • Từ Hải possesses a great ambition, seeking to build a monumental legacy and is unafraid of facing challenges and hardships.
• Desire for freedom: Từ Hải yearns for a life of liberty, not constrained by the rules of feudal society.
  • He is willing to abandon his current life to pursue his ideals.

3. Analysis of Love and Loyalty:

• Love for Thúy Kiều: Từ Hải is not only a hero but also an ideal lover, who constantly cares for and protects Thúy Kiều.
• Từ Hải's love for Thúy Kiều is pure, noble, and complete.
• Loyalty: Từ Hải remains loyal to his ideals and love, never betraying Thúy Kiều despite facing any challenges.

4. Artistic and Literary Techniques:

• Refined language: Nguyễn Du uses exquisite and refined language to portray Từ Hải's image.
  The words and vivid imagery allow the reader to feel the character's courage and spirit.
• Metaphors and rhetorical devices: Nguyễn Du employs metaphorical language, similes, and literary techniques to emphasize Từ Hải's character and ambitions.
• Concise and profound verse: The poem's concise, impactful words deeply convey Từ Hải's thoughts and heroic spirit.

5. Humanistic Significance and Value:

• Reflection of societal reality: This excerpt criticizes the feudal system, its injustices, and societal constraints.
• Spirit of freedom: It celebrates the yearning for freedom and the human spirit of resistance against oppression.
• Humanistic values: It upholds loyalty, noble love, and the unyielding courage of individuals.

6. Conclusion:

• Summary of key ideas:
  • Reaffirm the major aspects of Từ Hải's character and the significance of the excerpt.
• Practical application:
  • Draw lessons and current-day relevance from the work, relating it to contemporary life.

The excerpt from "Heroic Ambition" (lines 2213 to 2230) in "The Tale of Kieu" by the great poet Nguyen Du focuses on Tu Hai, an idealized character who embodies a romantic vision of a hero with extraordinary qualities. After falling into the brothel for the second time, Thuy Kieu lives in despair and frustration:

Knowing that escaping fate is impossible,

She risks her painted face, letting the day slip away.

Then, Tu Hai suddenly appears. Tu Hai comes to Thuy Kieu like a soulmate. In the dirty, murky world of the brothel, Tu Hai sharply recognizes the noble character of Thuy Kieu, and with sharp perception, Kieu quietly believes from the first meeting that Tu Hai is the only one who could rid her of her troubles. She humbly expresses:

The grass in the field, though humble, is cherished,

A fragile being, I humbly ask not to trouble you further.

One is a woman of the streets, the other a rebel, both of whom are the most despised by feudal society, yet they come together as kindred spirits in a deep connection. Tu Hai holds Kieu in high regard, while Kieu recognizes Tu as a true hero. However, love cannot hold Tu Hai back for long. It is time for him to leave and continue his great mission. This excerpt reveals a Tu Hai full of heroic ambition, but also tinged with a sense of loneliness in his journey.

Nguyen Du maintains a respectful and admiring tone towards Tu Hai throughout, portraying him as a man whose every action exudes the qualities of a hero. His brief marriage to Thuy Kieu is merely a brief rest on his path to greatness, not a permanent detour, and their union is filled with happiness. Yet, just six months into their marriage, Tu Hai is already moved to pursue his greater goals:

After half a year of joy,

The noble heart stirs, reaching for the vast world.

Gazing at the vast sky and sea,

With sword drawn, on horseback, he sets forth.

Tu Hai is portrayed as a man with deep emotions, yet above all, he is a warrior with strong ambition. The word 'chí' signifies a noble purpose, while 'khí' refers to the willpower needed to achieve it. In Tu Hai, the desire to spread his wings in the vast sky and earth is an innate, uncontrollable yearning. Before meeting and marrying Thuy Kieu, Tu Hai had already proven himself as a great hero: He boldly traversed the frontiers. His ambition to build a career is vast, and nothing can stop him.

Although Nguyen Du does not specify what Tu Hai sets out to do, readers can infer from the narrative and the words he speaks to Thuy Kieu that a glorious future awaits him. Tu Hai is not a man driven by common desires, but by the pursuit of heroic achievements. Living in the sweetness of love, he is suddenly stirred by a call from the world, and immediately, his thoughts turn toward the vast sky and sea, ready to embark on his mission with sword in hand and horse beneath him.

The term 'trượng phu' in "The Tale of Kieu" is used only once, specifically to describe Tu Hai. This signifies Nguyen Du's view of Tu Hai as a man of great ambition. The word 'thoắt' indicates his quick, decisive actions. The phrase 'động lòng bốn phương' expresses that Tu Hai is not confined to one place, but is a man of the world, a person destined for greatness (as Hoai Thanh comments).

'Động lòng bốn phương' signifies the deep yearning in Tu Hai's heart to roam freely across the vast earth. Such an extraordinary man cannot be contained in a narrow space. His thoughts are swift, and his decisions even swifter. With sword and steed, he hurriedly sets off. This reflects the hero's innate longing for freedom. Hoai Thanh observes that in this line, the image of the 'sword and horse' seems to fill the sky and earth.

During their farewell, the author portrays Tu Hai with his sword and horse, setting off on his journey before any parting words between him and Kieu. Some may question how Kieu could speak if he is already on his way, but perhaps the author wishes to create a farewell scene distinct from those between Thuy Kieu and Kim Trong or Thuy Kieu and Thuc Sinh. Tu Hai is ready to depart, sitting on his horse while bidding farewell to Kieu. Whether this is a true representation or not is uncertain, but the depiction highlights Tu Hai's determination and extraordinary character.

Thuy Kieu knows well that Tu Hai's departure means he will face a life without a home, but she still desperately asks to join him. She says: 'As a woman, I must follow, wherever you go, I will follow too.' Though short, her words reveal great resolve. The term 'tòng' here not only refers to the traditional concept of a woman following her husband but also implies supporting and sharing his mission, wanting to take on the journey together. Tu Hai's farewell speech further reveals his heroic nature:

Tu Hai says: “You understand me well,

But have you not yet transcended the usual nature of a woman?

When the ten thousand soldiers march,

The sound of drums will shake the earth, the banners will cover the road.

Only then will I bring you home as my true wife.

For now, the world is open, yet I cannot take you along,

I will return soon, perhaps in a year or so.”

As a soulmate, we understand each other deeply, but you still seem bound by conventional female emotions. You should be stronger to match the wife of a hero. Tu Hai's idealistic vision is evident in his words. When he speaks to Kieu, he does not express longing or sentimentality, as that would distract from his greater mission. Had he truly been sentimental, Tu Hai would have accepted Kieu's request to join him.

Tu Hai, driven by his ambitious nature, cannot remain in the domestic sphere. While living in the sweetness of love, the call of his mission stirs him from within. Tu Hai resolves to leave, for his career is his top priority. To him, it is not only the meaning of his life but also the means to fulfill the dreams entrusted to him by his soulmate. This is why he does not lament during the farewell. Moreover, his remark 'Why have you not yet transcended the usual nature of a woman?' suggests that Kieu should rise above ordinary emotions to be worthy of a hero's wife. Later, in her longing, Kieu's dreams of a 'rose soaring in the sky' and her longing for Tu Hai indicate both her hope for his success and her belief in his future glory.

Tu Hai is a man of great confidence. Once he boldly saw himself as a hero in the world, and now he believes that all his ambitions are within his grasp. Although he starts with only his sword and horse, Tu Hai is certain that he will return with ten thousand soldiers, victorious in battle, his banners waving triumphantly, to show Thuy Kieu his extraordinary greatness. Tu Hai confidently declares that, at the latest, within a year, he will return with great achievements.

Without hesitation, without sorrow, and with no lingering attachment, Tu Hai's farewell is filled with the unwavering conviction of a hero. His words are a promise, solid and unyielding, a firm belief in his imminent success. The final two lines of the poem reinforce this determination:

With a resolute word, he leaves,

The eagle and clouds are ready to fly high.

Nguyen Du uses the imagery of the 'eagle' in classical literature to symbolize the heroic aspirations of those with extraordinary abilities, who aim to achieve great things. The sudden departure, the decisive farewell, and the confidence in victory all reveal Tu Hai's heroic spirit. It is time for the eagle to take flight with the winds, soaring high above the clouds. The phrase 'eagle and clouds' draws on Zhuangzi's imagery of the eagle soaring nine thousand miles before resting, contrasting with the small birds that only hop from branch to branch. This represents the heroic spirit of Tu Hai as he leaves the farewell scene in a triumphant haze.

The image of the hero Tu Hai is a brilliant creation by Nguyen Du, both in terms of inspiration and artistic depiction. It showcases the poet's talent in expressing the hero's ambition and longing for freedom. Tu Hai embodies the suppressed desire for justice within the confines of a feudal society. His departure is not only to fulfill his own dream of freedom but also to seek justice for the wrongs inflicted upon people like Thuy Kieu. Tu Hai's quest is not to establish a petty throne of power, but to fight for a noble cause. This message is clear: his pursuit of justice and freedom defines his heroic nature.

Nguyen Du successfully uses language, imagery, and idealized depiction to transform Tu Hai into an extraordinary figure, rich in both character and vitality. Although the excerpt is brief, it carries profound meaning, highlighting the character of Tu Hai as the ideal hero, the most noble figure in the masterpiece "The Tale of Kieu" by the great poet Nguyen Du.

When we mention the great national poet Nguyễn Du, we cannot forget his masterpiece "Truyện Kiều" – a work that encapsulates a deep humanistic spirit, elevating the value of human dignity and denouncing the decaying feudal society. The excerpt "Heroic Spirit" from "Truyện Kiều" portrays Từ Hải – a noble hero with extraordinary qualities, embodying idealism and strength.

In this passage, Nguyễn Du created a completely new image of Từ Hải compared to his character in the "Kim Vân Kiều truyện" by Thanh Tâm Tài Nhân. In Nguyễn Du's version, Từ Hải is not depicted as a mere bandit but as a magnificent, extraordinary hero. This portrayal blends the allegorical nature of Nguyễn Du's distinctive artistic style with the image of a larger-than-life figure, emphasizing cosmic greatness.

After being trapped and falling into the brothel for the second time, Kiều lived in constant despair and torment. In the midst of this, Từ Hải appeared as a savior, helping Kiều escape the filthy environment. However, their love, while intense, could not overshadow Từ Hải's greater ambition to build a significant career. This is why, after only "half a year" of their blossoming love, Từ Hải left to pursue his burning desire for success:

Half a year of passionate affection

The hero quickly felt the call to roam far and wide

He gazed at the boundless sky and sea

With his sword and steed, he ventured forth

Though their love was fiery for those six months, Từ Hải's great ambitions and thirst for glory led him to "feel the call to roam far and wide." The phrase "the boundless sky and sea" symbolizes his vast and extraordinary aspirations. These symbolic images elevate Từ Hải's character, highlighting his larger-than-life nature.

It can be said that love, or any other emotion, was powerless to halt his journey. In this entire work, Nguyễn Du uses the word "hero" to emphasize Từ Hải's great resolve. The image of "the sword and steed set forth" conveys the calm and composed demeanor of a hero on his quest to establish a legacy.

For Thúy Kiều, Từ Hải was not only her husband but also a great benefactor who saved her from the brothel. Thus, when her husband decided to leave for his great mission, Thúy Kiều requested to accompany him, to support him:

She said: A woman's duty is to follow

If my husband departs, I too shall follow

She asked to accompany him to fulfill the duty of a wife, for according to her belief, "a wife must follow her husband." However, Từ Hải, resolute in his mission, responded in a way to reassure her:

Từ said: My heart knows your devotion

But why are you still bound by the traditional thoughts of a woman?

When I have an army of a hundred thousand

The sound of drums will shake the earth, banners will fill the sky

Then, I shall return and claim you as my bride

Từ Hải, upon hearing Kiều's plea, seemed to chastise her: "Why are you still bound by traditional female duties?" It was a gentle admonition, encouraging her to set aside personal emotions for his greater mission. With unwavering determination, Từ Hải spoke of his future success, promising to return with an army of a hundred thousand warriors, and then, he would claim her as his true love and give her a proper status.

These words from Từ Hải, at the moment of parting, further reveal his "heroic spirit". Instead of expressing sorrow or attachment, he spoke of his inevitable success and future victory.

Từ Hải also displayed his heroic resolve by suggesting that Kiều would be more burdened by following him, yet he deeply cared for her and feared that the wandering life would be too harsh for her:

In the vastness of the world, there is no home

Accompanying me would only add to your burdens, you won't know where to go

He confidently promised to return in about a year. Từ Hải advised Kiều to stay behind and wait for his triumphant return:

Wait here for a while

It won't be long, just a year or so

Unlike a typical farewell, Từ Hải's words were not filled with sentimentality but rather with promises of a future victory and a resolve for the journey ahead.

With firm resolve, Từ Hải declared his departure:

The winds and clouds have come, the time for departure has come

He left decisively, like a soaring bird, knowing that only after achieving victory would he return to her.

In this passage of "Heroic Spirit", Nguyễn Du constructed a new, idealized image of the hero. He succeeded in creating this character through his unique artistic talent and passionate devotion to literature.