Top 12 Best Essays Analyzing the Image of Farmers in "The Funeral Oration of the Cần Giuộc Heroes" by Nguyễn Đình Chiểu (Grade 11)

Nguyễn Đình Chiểu was a talented writer who depicted the image of farmers in literature through the work "The Funeral Oration of the Cần Giuộc Heroes", a subject that had not been explored in previous times. In this oration, the image of the farmers is vividly illustrated. The poor farmers, who quietly work hard, are depicted as individuals who spend their lives focused on their fields, cultivating crops, and working tirelessly. They are clear in their emotions, filled with hatred and a fierce determination to fight against the French colonizers. They fought heroically, and their sacrifice was heart-wrenching, though not a tear was shed. This is the beauty of Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's poetry.

The "Funeral Oration of the Cần Giuộc Heroes" was written in 1858, during the French colonial invasion of Vietnam. After capturing Gia Định in early 1859, the French forces began expanding their attacks to surrounding regions such as Tân An, Cần Giuộc, and Gò Công. On November 15th of the Year of the Rooster, the local farmers, outraged by the foreign invaders, courageously attacked the French garrison in Cần Giuộc, killing several of their troops and a Vietnamese collaborator. Around fifteen of the local heroes sacrificed their lives. These sacrifices deeply moved the people. On the request of the Gia Định prefect, Đỗ Quang, Nguyễn Đình Chiểu wrote the "Funeral Oration of the Cần Giuộc Heroes" to be read at the memorial for those who had fallen in battle.

As we know, "The Funeral Oration of the Cần Giuộc Heroes" is a rare artistic masterpiece. It is "tragic-heroic" in both its grandeur and emotional depth: heroic in its depiction of the fight for a noble cause and tragic in the portrayal of sacrifice. The grandeur comes from the fighting for a great cause, from the heroic qualities and the willingness to sacrifice everything. It also captures an era of intense struggle for the country and the nation. The oration begins with the mournful exclamation "Alas!", a cry of grief from the poet for the fallen heroes, symbolizing the perilous state of the nation:

"The enemy's guns roar, the earth shakes; the people's hearts are clear as the sky"—signifying that the nation is in danger, with the enemy's guns thundering across the land. In this time of national crisis, the people rose up to shoulder the historical mission of driving out the invaders. And the farmers, who had quietly labored in the fields, stood up courageously to reclaim independence for their beloved country. Their bravery stemmed from a deep love for the homeland, a love that was evident in their every action. The main image in the oration is that of the Cần Giuộc heroes, who were poor farmers living isolated lives behind village fences. They were simple, kind, hardworking, and lived alongside their buffaloes, plowing the fields. They were far removed from the world of horses and battlefields:

"They lived in isolation, working the land in quiet hardship."

The phrase "living in isolation" signifies the solitary, quiet nature of their labor, often enduring in silence without anyone knowing their struggles. They worked tirelessly, and though exhausted, they persevered without complaint. The life of the Vietnamese farmer is encapsulated in this phrase: they toil relentlessly, knowing nothing of luxury or warfare. They were simply farmers, living their lives in peace, until war came to their doorstep.

"They had never known the life of soldiers, but only their buffaloes and village fields."

Their lives were simple, centered on agricultural work, with no knowledge of war or weapons. Yet, when their homeland was invaded, these farmers, who had never seen a soldier's life, rose up to fight against the French invaders to defend their land, their livelihoods, and their freedom:

"When they saw the enemy, they were determined to fight with all their might."

Their stance toward the French invaders was clear: "They would fight with all their might." Despite being poorly equipped, with only rudimentary weapons like bamboo poles or knives, they still achieved victories, such as burning down enemy houses and decapitating officials. The oration vividly recounts the brutal battles fought by these local heroes:

"The drums beat, the soldiers charged, storming through enemy lines without fear of the enemy's small or large bullets, breaking down doors and fighting valiantly."

The sounds of the battlefield were deafening, with drums urging the soldiers forward and gunfire ringing out. The Cần Giuộc heroes fought fearlessly, charging at the French troops with great courage. Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's writing emphasizes their unwavering bravery, depicting them as fearless warriors willing to sacrifice their lives for their country. This is the first time such an image of the farmer-soldier has been captured in literature.

The "Funeral Oration of the Cần Giuộc Heroes" also conveys the grief of the families left behind: the mourning mother waiting for her son, the wife grieving for her husband, the children yearning for their father. Many heroes fell in battle, leaving their families behind in sorrow:

"The grief of the old mother crying for her child, the faint light of the lamp flickering in the hut; the wife searching desperately for her husband as the day fades into night."

These farmers fought bravely and sacrificed heroically for their homeland. Their sacrifices are a lesson to us all, showing that no nation should ever be subjugated. They are shining examples of courage and patriotism:

"Oh! A smoke-filled battle, but a thousand years of glory remain!"

The sacrifice of the Cần Giuộc heroes is a precious lesson, reminding us that it is better to die with honor than to live in disgrace. They are an inspiration for the Vietnamese people, a beacon of courage for generations to come. Their legacy lives on in the hearts of the people of Vietnam, as a shining example of selflessness and devotion to the independence of the nation.

"The tears of a hero cannot be wiped away, for the love of the people is eternal."

In conclusion, "The Funeral Oration of the Cần Giuộc Heroes" affirms Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's deep love for his people. It is a tribute to the Cần Giuộc heroes and a reminder of the sacrifices made for the independence of the nation. Their courage, patriotism, and sacrifice will always be remembered, and their legacy will inspire future generations to continue building a prosperous and strong nation.

In literature, it wasn't until the 19th century that Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, a patriotic scholar, painted the image of the farmer through his work, "The Funeral Oration of the Cần Giuộc Heroes". This marked the true emergence of the farmer's image in literary history. The farmer in this poem is depicted as a beautiful, authentic, and tragic figure, both heroic and sorrowful, in the struggle for national independence and freedom.

These farmers were not born to be heroes like Gióng, Lê Lợi, or Quang Trung. They wore the simple brown robes of the land, living humble and hard lives. But they emerged amidst the turmoil of their time: "Oh, the guns of the enemy thunder and the hearts of the people shine with clarity". They were unaccustomed to the sound of gunfire, a sound that shattered their peaceful lives, lives spent working the land from dawn to dusk, struggling against poverty. Poverty made them small, endlessly toiling without hope for a better future. With just one line, Đồ Chiểu captures the cycle of endless struggle for these farmers, who toil and live with little prospect of escape. Behind the village's bamboo fences, they had no concept of "horses and chariots" or "battlefields"; all they knew were their "plows and buffaloes".

They seemed destined to suffer forever. But when the invaders began to trample their land, desecrating their homeland, their poverty was no longer the only worry. Now, anxiety and fear clouded their thoughts:

"The wind howls like a crane’s cry, more than ten months of waiting, and news from the officials is like waiting for rain during a drought…"

They couldn't sit idly by. Although abandoned by the ruling class, the deep love for their country surged within them. The invaders had stolen their flesh and blood, broken their peaceful lives, and how could they not feel rage? This seething anger transformed these ordinary people into giants, like the legendary Gióng. When the nation was in distress, they stood ready to fight, fueled by a love for their homeland that turned into a burning hatred for the invaders:

"One day, I see the white fog rising and wish to tear out their hearts.

When I see the black smoke rising, I want to tear their throats out.

A vast letter, should we let anyone cut the snake and chase the deer?

Two suns shining bright, how can they tolerate the treacherous scum?"

This deep love for the homeland, born from their hearts, made them shine with beauty. The blood of the Lạc Hồng flowed within them, their fury stronger than weakness, stronger than death. Their desire to fight for their land, to protect their home, drove them, regardless of the fact that they had no proper weapons or training. The 19th-century Gióngs had arrived, "trampling the gates" and ignoring the enemy as if they were nothing.

Alas, "one piece of cloth", "a bamboo spear", "a sickle", "a homemade matchlock", could they possibly overcome "iron ships" and "cannon fire"? This is the tragedy of the Cần Giuộc heroes, or perhaps the tragedy of their harsh time. They were farmers, yet they astonished the battlefield. Perhaps this is why their epic song was sung through sobs. The battlefield may have stolen their lives, but their spirit of sacrifice compensated for their lack of numbers, outshining their enemies.

"The official blows the horn, the drum beats, and the guns roar"

The image of the common farmers in their humble clothes is etched in the smoky backdrop of the battlefield: the resounding sounds (front and behind...), the fierce actions (burning, slashing...). These farmers became the heroes of a memorable era. In their defiant posture, the portrait of those who carried the nation's fate on their shoulders shone brightly. They knew they were nameless in the eyes of the nation, but the greatest thing they left behind was a philosophy of life that would endure for generations:

"Better to die for a just cause than live as slaves to the West, for even in the afterlife, we would still bring glory to our ancestors." This spirit and resolve still shine brightly in every Cần Giuộc citizen. To live as a slave or a puppet of the West is unbearable; one must fight for their land and nation. "Oh, alas!" - A cry full of sorrow, a cry that twists the heart, as we bid farewell to the sons of Cần Giuộc who fell on the battlefield. They lay forever in the land they loved. Their sacrifice still lingers, as the old mother and the flickering candlelight remind us of their undying legacy.

"Oh, how painful! The old mother sits crying for her child, the night candle flickers in the hut.

The weak wife runs to search for her husband, her shadow barely seen at the gate."

The fallen heroes are now with the ancestors, leaving behind an old mother, a weak wife, and orphaned children. What will become of them when poverty still clings to them, when the debt to the nation is not yet repaid? "The tears of heroes will never dry, for the love of the people is eternal. The incense of the heroes will burn brighter, with every word of gratitude to the earth."

Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, with his compassionate heart, saw and heard the suffering of these people and created a monument that was grand yet simple, full of love. In the history of our literature, the image of the farmer has been mentioned many times, but before Đồ Chiểu, no one had openly praised the heroism of the common farmer, who became a soldier for the cause. By infusing folk elements into his work, "The Funeral Oration of the Cần Giuộc Heroes" became a piece of writing that was both grand and heroic, yet familiar and humble.

Đồ Chiểu, a blind poet, a "folk singer of the people", gave us an unforgettable portrayal of the revolutionary farmer. Proud of these small yet unwavering people who stood tall in the face of tyranny. Proud of the nameless soldiers, the heroes who died to protect the integrity of the nation. They are immortal statues, remembered for eternity.

"The Funeral Oration for the Cần Giuộc Heroes" by Nguyễn Đình Chiểu is a grand, tragic monument to the farmer-heroes. For the first time in literary history, the image of the farmer was fully depicted, both in form and beauty. Through this work, Nguyễn Đình Chiểu completed the portrayal of the heroism and courage of the common farmer.

In 1858, French colonial forces began their invasion of Vietnam. By February 1859, they had captured Gia Định and launched attacks on surrounding areas (Gò Công, Cần Giuộc). On December 14, 1861, the Cần Giuộc uprising achieved an initial victory: they beheaded a French officer and several colonial soldiers, taking over a military post. However, on December 16, 1862, the French retaliated, killing twenty of the rebels. In response, the Gia Định governor, Đỗ Quang, requested Nguyễn Đình Chiểu to write a funeral oration for the fallen Cần Giuộc fighters.

The image of the farmer had appeared in classical literature before, as in Nguyễn Trãi's "Bình Ngô Đại Cáo", where he wrote: "Yết can vi kỳ, manh lệ chi đồ tứ tập" (Making a staff as a flag, gathering people from all directions). However, this was the first time the farmer was presented in such a full and clear form in literature. Nguyễn Trãi’s purpose was more about asserting the farmers' role in the resistance, rather than deeply portraying their image.

In contrast, Nguyễn Đình Chiểu’s "Funeral Oration for the Cần Giuộc Heroes" was the first to capture a complete portrait of the farmer, in both their physical appearance and inner spirit. It depicted their daily life, from their humble, hard-working existence to their bravery and resolve to defend the homeland. This was a revolutionary discovery by Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, who highlighted the farmers' essential role in every resistance movement, a role often overlooked in history.

The author begins by outlining the historical context, asserting the significance of the farmer-hero: "The enemy’s guns shake the earth; the people's hearts are as clear as the sky. Ten years of working the fields, but no fame as resounding as a drumbeat; one battle against the French, though quiet, echoes like a bell." This era was one of both great hardship and greatness, producing farmers with passionate patriotism. The brief yet powerful lines—"enemy's guns/people’s hearts, the earth shakes/sky clears"—evoke the intense, charged atmosphere of the people’s fight against foreign invaders, setting the stage to appreciate the heroism of the farmer-heroes.

Before the invasion, the farmer-heroes lived lives full of toil and struggle: "Diligently working, facing poverty." Their world revolved around the village and the fields: "Only knowing the fields, within the village limits," "Used to plowing, planting, sowing, unfamiliar with war: "Practicing shields, guns, spears, banners, never having seen them before." Their life was bound to the land, so when news of the invasion came, they placed their full trust in the government: "Waiting for the officials' orders as one waits for rain in a drought," and they harbored a deep hatred for the enemy: "Seeing the white smoke, desiring to eat their hearts; seeing the black smoke, desiring to bite their necks." Furthermore, they were deeply responsible for their homeland, willing to sacrifice their lives for the peace of the country, despite lacking military training.

These farmers, who once held only the plow and the hoe, rose up as heroic warriors in the fight against the French: "In the battle against the French, they stood tall as brave heroes." No longer the simple villagers with limited perspectives, they quickly matured into warriors, filled with a burning desire to resist the invaders. Their weapons were rudimentary, mostly everyday tools like bamboo poles, straw, and sickles, but their spirit burned brightly, and they charged into battle: "Breaking through fences, treating the enemy as if they were nothing," "Smashing doors and rushing in, risking their lives without fear." Their fierce actions were captured in vivid detail: "Stabbing sideways, slashing upward, causing chaos; those in front, those behind, disregarding the enemy’s iron and steel." The use of action verbs—breaking, rushing, smashing, stabbing—captured the heroic, decisive actions of those fighting for a greater cause.

When creating the image of the farmer-hero, the author employed a realistic style, capturing their true essence—from their outward appearance to their daily, grueling labor. Nguyễn Đình Chiểu used various artistic techniques, such as comparisons (like how farmers hate weeds). Particularly effective were the contrasts used: charging forward/rushing in, stabbing sideways/slashing upward, simple clothing and bamboo poles/weapons of war. These artistic methods helped highlight the courageous, tragic beauty of the farmer-heroes.

The "Funeral Oration for the Cần Giuộc Heroes" is a heroic song that praises the brave, unyielding, and resilient farmer-heroes. Their image and sacrifices stand as a testament to their deep patriotism and to the enduring philosophy of our ancestors: "It is better to die in glory than to live in shame."

Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, a patriotic blind poet, had a deep love for the people and their struggles. He left behind many valuable literary works, with "Lục Vân Tiên" being famous, but it is "Funeral Oration for the Cần Giuộc Heroes" that stands as the pinnacle of his expression of love for the country and the common folk. With deep admiration and sympathy, the author created an immortal monument to the farmer—simple, humble people who embody the heroism of the nation, volunteering to fight and sacrifice for the survival of the country.

Initially, these farmers were just simple rural people. They "worked diligently to overcome poverty," their lives confined to the village, toiling on the land with their oxen, doing manual labor like plowing, planting, and harvesting. They were strangers to weapons, unaccustomed to military drills, and knew nothing of war. The Cần Giuộc farmer-heroes were pure, rustic individuals, living in the poverty and hardship of rural life.

However, when the enemy invaded and the government struggled to resist, these farmers, who had long been devoted to their homeland, willingly took up arms. When their land and livelihoods were taken, they did not wait for orders or leaders to act. They fought with the same spirit of the East A Dynasty from the Trần era: "We won’t wait for anyone to call or force us; we will fight now and give all our strength." Despite the overwhelming might of the enemy, with modern weapons and vast numbers, these humble farmers did not fear. They fought on, even though the odds were against them, bravely confronting the enemy with the spirit of warriors.

These farmer-heroes fought with unwavering resolve, ready to die for their country. Armed with nothing but the love of their homeland and hatred for the invaders, they did not hesitate. Despite knowing the risks and the probable sacrifice, they fought with passion, wielding only rudimentary weapons such as bamboo poles, straw, and sickles, in contrast to the enemy's advanced arsenal. Yet their resolve and heart made them formidable opponents.

They fought until the very end, their bodies becoming an enduring symbol of resistance and patriotism. The vivid portrayal of their bravery can be seen in Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's words: "The soldiers beat their drums, charge forward as if the enemy was nothing; they do not fear the French with their guns, rushing forward without hesitation. Some strike sideways, others chop upwards, causing chaos; the enemy at the front and rear are helpless before them." The use of powerful verbs and the intense rhythm of the sentences captures the fierce determination of the farmer-heroes, who fought with all their might to preserve the nation’s independence. Their image stands tall, forever etched in the hearts of the Vietnamese people, as a symbol of courage and heroism.

The image of the farmer had appeared in literature before, in works like "Dụ chư tỳ tướng hịch văn" and "Bình Ngô Đại Cáo". However, it is in "Funeral Oration for the Cần Giuộc Heroes" that the Vietnamese farmer was fully depicted in all their physicality, character, emotions, and actions. Written during the early days of the French resistance, this work not only honors the fallen heroes but also condemns the French colonial atrocities and critiques the passive attitude of the Nguyễn Dynasty's rulers. It also serves to motivate the people to continue the struggle against the enemy.

By using vivid language, a flexible tone, and expressions familiar to the rural people, Nguyễn Đình Chiểu created an image of the humble, hard-working, and deeply patriotic farmer-hero. This portrayal remains one of the most beautiful and powerful representations of the farmer in Vietnamese literary history.

The Vietnamese farmers' patriotic resistance against foreign invaders has existed for over a thousand years. However, in literature, the image of the patriotic farmer truly emerged only in the late 19th century, with Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's "Funeral Oration for the Cần Giuộc Heroes." It can be said that with this work, Nguyễn Đình Chiểu created the first artistic monument to the Vietnamese patriotic farmer. This image is a beautiful and true depiction of both sorrow and heroism, symbolizing the struggle of the Vietnamese people in the second half of the 19th century to protect their independence and homeland.

Although the tone is mournful, the poet never gives in to despair. With unshakable faith in the eternal strength of the nation and the love for their country, he remains hopeful for a brighter future. The land will eventually be freed from invaders, and the shame of losing the country will be washed away:

“When the divine emperor’s grace shines through,

A rain of blessing will cleanse the land.”

(Listening to the Eastern wind)

This is a deeply moving and powerful belief. Perhaps before Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, no poet had ever written with such clarity of purpose:

“No matter how many rivers my boat must cross,

I shall strike down any evil that comes my way.”

His sense of duty is none other than a deep love for the people. This is the source of the emotional resonance in his poetry, the foundation of Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's renowned place in Vietnamese literature. He was absolutely right and insightful in opening his mournful ode with:

“Oh! The cannons shake the earth,

The people's hearts are laid bare.”

Indeed, through this battle and the severe trials faced, the true essence of the farmers' patriotism and the beauty of their souls is revealed to the world. They existed before, but no one knew of them. They lived quietly, unnoticed. Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, with his deep empathy, recognized the hardships of their lives:

“Remembering the old days:

Living humbly,

Struggling with poverty.”

The weight of those eight short words speaks volumes about the plight of the Cần Giuộc farmers, the hardworking farmers of Vietnam at the time. Their existence, small and solitary in the world, tirelessly toiling in the fields, burdened by life's hardships and natural disasters, is vividly captured through every line. It seems that these struggles should have been enough for them; they lived only for the "worries of poverty," too great a concern to bear.

Yet, when foreign invaders arrived, they stood up. Those who had been bent under the weight of their burdens suddenly rose, towering like the legendary Gióng from ancient tales, only this time, the call to arms did not come from the royal palace, but from the very hearts of the Cần Giuộc farmers. Their hatred for the invaders fueled a desire to protect their land:

“The stench of the invaders has lingered for three years,

Despised like a farmer hates the weeds.

When we saw their banners fluttering, we wanted to tear their hearts out;

When we saw their smoke, we wanted to bite their throats.”

This intense hatred birthed a high, natural aspiration: the desire to fight the invaders. It was a completely voluntary wish:

“We don’t wait for orders, we’ll fight with all our might;

Not afraid of retreating or hiding, we’ll charge forward like tigers.”

Nguyễn Đình Chiểu’s farmers are vastly different from those who, not long ago, "stepped onto a boat, tears like rain," forced into service to defend the king's borders. These farmers chose to fight, driven by a sense of duty that was fundamental to their character. Perhaps this was the same spirit that had once driven the heroic Lục Vân Tiên to battle bandits:

“To forget the duty of the common good

Is to live without honor.”

In every noble cause, none is greater than the cause of defending the country. When it is a righteous cause, one must act without hesitation, without expectation of gain, and without waiting for the perfect conditions. This is the tragedy of the Cần Giuộc farmers, but it is also the grandeur of their heroism. Their tragedy lies in the fact that:

“The wind howls for months,

We wait for the news like waiting for rain in drought.”

They began the struggle when the royal court should have long ago begun the fight, but instead, they "sat idly," a mysterious inaction. The tragedy is also evident in the fact that they were farmers:

“Unfamiliar with weapons, never seen war,

Only knowing the plow, in the village,

Familiar with the hoe, plow, and sickle...”

They entered battle with only basic tools for farming: a worn shirt, a bamboo spear, and a sickle, facing off against professional soldiers with modern weaponry. The difference was clear! It was an unequal fight, and the outcome was inevitable. This was the tragedy of the Cần Giuộc heroes, and it mirrored the tragic era in our nation's history, which led to the loss of the country for a century.

Yet within this tragedy, the anthem of life rises. It is first seen in the indomitable will of those determined to fight on, transcending the fear of defeat, fighting with spirit, and laying down their lives for their country:

“Through the fog, the drum calls,

We charge forward, the enemy seems as nothing;

Not afraid of the enemy’s bullets,

We break through their gates, fearless...”

Such courage, such spirit! Truly, they fought like brave soldiers. In this moment, their mental strength exceeded all, demonstrating its effectiveness despite the overwhelming advantage of the enemy's superior tactics, weapons, and armor:

“The fire from a simple torch scorched the invaders’ homes,

A sickle cut off the head of the officer.”

“... Striking sideways, striking back, causing chaos and fear among the enemy.”

In Vietnamese literature, no one had ever depicted such a heroic image of the farmer-soldier until Nguyễn Đình Chiểu. The farmer’s image here is the culmination and highest expression of their inherent nature. In those heroic moments, the Cần Giuộc farmers achieved immortality.

Indeed, Nguyễn Đình Chiểu sculpted a monument to the Cần Giuộc farmers—heroes whose names remain unknown, but their collective heroism shines through. Without these farmers, there would have been no victory, no overwhelming spirit to face the dangers and defeat death with such fierce determination.

The monument to the Cần Giuộc heroes, created by Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, is not just the monument of one person, but of a collective of heroes. Without this collective, there would be no beautiful harmony, no powerful spirit to charge forward and fight. Their monument bears the name “The Cần Giuộc Heroes,” and though each individual hero is anonymous, their collective sacrifice is immortalized forever.

In the end, Nguyễn Đình Chiểu engraved a final message for them under their monument: a philosophy of life:

“Death with honor is better than life in disgrace.

Better to die for a noble cause than live under the foreign rule.”

Having completed his monument, Nguyễn Đình Chiểu left space for praises, sympathy, and respect for the fallen:

“The tears of heroes will never dry, their sacrifice honored for eternity.”

The attack by the Cần Giuộc fighters in 1863 was the first assault by the Vietnamese people against the French colonizers. While the material losses they inflicted were minimal, the true impact of their resistance was enormous. Their deep, selfless patriotism, unyielding bravery, and unwavering spirit made them deserving of immortalization in a monument. Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, the people's poet, fulfilled his noble role as an artist by sculpting this eternal tribute.

The life of Nguyễn Đình Chiểu is a shining example of patriotism, compassion for the people, and determination in the face of adversity. This is vividly illustrated in his work "The Eulogy of the Heroes of Cần Giuộc," where he immortalizes the image of the farmer as a timeless symbol of bravery and perseverance. The eulogy begins with the sorrowful exclamation, "Alas!"—a mournful cry from the poet to the fallen heroes, echoing the dire state of the nation. These farmers, born into poverty and hardship, were concerned only with survival, their thoughts focused on finding enough food to eat and warmth to endure:

“Plowing, harrowing, and sowing, their hands accustomed to work;

They practiced with shields, guns, spears, and flags, though they had never seen such things.”

These farmers understood their lowly status and never imagined themselves involved in national affairs—these matters were for the court and rulers. However, when the Lang Sa invaders arrived to ravage the country, "spreading foul stench for three years, while the faces of the officials remained absent"—this exposed the cowardice of the government and its officials. Unable to ignore the sight of their country being overrun, their deep patriotism drove them to rise up and resist the invaders:

“We do not wait for orders, we will fight and strike back;

We will not flee, but stand firm and fight with all our strength.”

They took on the difficult task ahead—disregarding their own lives, only hoping to restore peace to the land, even though the enemy was better armed and more powerful. These simple, humble farmers banded together to fight. Leaving their modest homes behind, they rushed into battle, armed with no weapons and no experience in combat. Their courage grew even more as they faced the crude tools they had for weapons: straw mats, sickle blades, and bamboo poles. Despite the crude nature of their weapons, their love for their country and their resolve to defeat the enemy were sharper than any blade. The poet describes the heroism of these farmers on the battlefield:

“Fire attacks with straw mats, burning down the missionary house;

Swords made from sickle blades decapitate enemy officers.

Some strike sideways, others cut upwards, sending the enemy into disarray,

The cries of the people front and back drown out the sound of enemy guns.”

No longer were these farmers the humble, simple figures they once were. In battle, their sole aim was to defeat the invaders. These heroic figures dominated the battlefield, overwhelming the enemy. Their sickle blades and bamboo poles cut through the air, asserting control over the battlefield, leaving the invaders in fear. The sound of their cries drowned out the booming cannons. “Straw mats, sickle blades—they burned down the enemy’s fort, and decapitated their officers.” In the face of their might, the once-feared invaders were reduced to pitiable figures.

They fought with valor and sacrificed their lives with dignity. The sacrifice of the heroes of Cần Giuộc leaves behind a valuable lesson: "Better to die with honor than to live in shame." The farmers' deep connection to their land made them feel the pain of foreign invaders desecrating their homeland. Their resolve was to fight and die rather than live in disgrace before those who would steal their country. They serve as an example for the Vietnamese people to follow, lighting the way for future generations.

“Live to fight the invaders, die to fight the invaders,

Our spirits will follow to aid the army, and for eternity, we vow to seek revenge…”

Nguyễn Đình Chiểu affirms the contributions of the heroes of Cần Giuộc:

“The tears of heroes will never dry, for the sake of the people;

The incense of the heroes will continue to burn, forever cherished for their deeds.”

Their deeds will be forever recorded in history. Future generations must remember, respect, and honor them. These small, anonymous farmers made a significant contribution to the defense of their nation.

In conclusion, as illustrated in this analysis, "The Eulogy of the Heroes of Cần Giuộc" is a monumental tribute to the heroism of farmers. They truly embody the enduring patriotism of the Vietnamese people.

The beauty of farmers has long been celebrated in folk songs, proverbs, and literature. This beauty has been explored from various perspectives. In "The Eulogy of the Heroes of Cần Giuộc," we encounter the image of the farmer-hero, a symbol of grandeur and courage. This is an exceptionally noble image, evoking love and the strength to fight for generations to come.

The farmers of Cần Giuộc endured tremendous hardships, toiling day and night in the fields. They relied on the peaceful sky and calm seas for a good harvest, living honestly and diligently despite their material poverty. Their spirits, however, were rich in energy and fervor. This inner strength enabled them to overcome all adversities. With unwavering patriotism and hatred for the invaders, they rose to fight. When the enemy came, they didn’t wait for royal decrees or try to escape—they bravely fought with an unyielding and determined spirit.

Their weapons were rudimentary, their thin garments served as armor on the battlefield. Yet, they were ready to face the challenges posed by enemy guns, spears, and arrows. Lacking swords and heavy axes, they fought with the fury of the injustice they faced, embodying the motto "Fight for the nation, even to death." Their bravery stood tall in the face of death, and they faced the battlefield with unwavering courage. They fought with the spirit of "Better to die with honor than to live in shame," refusing to surrender or kneel before the enemy. They gave everything for the love of their homeland. Every battle has sacrifices, losses, and grief.

"How painful it is, the old mother weeps for her child, the dim light of the night lamp flickers in the hut,
How sorrowful it is, the weak wife searches for her husband, and the orphaned child lingers at the door."

Despite the immense losses, as so many widows mourn and children grow up without fathers, they remained steadfast in the face of it all, accepting their fate for the greater cause. The enemy had modern weapons, while our farmers fought with primitive tools, yet they achieved remarkable victories. The farmers of Cần Giuộc fought bravely and sacrificed their lives in the battles. Even in death, they thought of the people and the country, continuing the fight for their homeland:

"Live to fight the invaders, die to fight the invaders,
Our spirits will follow to aid the army, and for eternity, we vow to seek revenge.
Live to serve the king, die to serve the king,
The words of the king, clear as day, will reward our service."

The image of these farmers in "The Eulogy of the Heroes of Cần Giuộc" stirs within every heart, especially among the youth, a deep love for the homeland. Their spirit of patriotism and civic duty, always ready to rise when the country is threatened, shows that the youth are passionate and resolute, willing to fight for the noble values of the nation. This is the image of the heroic farmer, a model that will stand immortal for a thousand years.

Independence, freedom, and happiness are fundamental needs for every nation and the world as a whole. Vietnam, having endured thousands of years of struggle for national liberation, has faced countless challenges, hardships, and sacrifices from heroes whose blood and sweat have contributed to the peace we now enjoy. The contributions of these warriors are commemorated through monuments, memorial days, and more importantly, preserved in history to celebrate their triumphs. Nguyễn Đình Chiểu is one of the writers who used his talent and passion to honor the contributions of the peasant soldiers. His eulogy 'Văn tế nghĩa sĩ Cần Giuộc' was written during the early days of the resistance against the French colonizers, paying tribute to the farmers' heroic efforts. Through this work, we see the heroic image of these soldiers. When the sound of the enemy’s gunfire echoed, the farmer-soldiers rose to defend their homeland:

“Alas! Gunfire shakes the land; the people's hearts are clear…”

The opening of the eulogy expresses a deep sense of hatred for the enemy and sorrow for the suffering people. The author uses contrasting elements, 'enemy’s gunfire' and 'people's hearts,' to highlight the conflict between the invading forces and the loyalty to the nation. The line 'Ten years of plowing the fields' in contrast with 'One battle to fight the French' emphasizes the farmers' resolve to defend their homeland. At first glance, one might think these warriors are trained soldiers of the empire, but they are, in fact, simple, humble peasants living modest lives:

“Remembering the old days; Toiling away in poverty…”

The farmers, dressed in simple cloth, led hard-working lives to make a living. They were deeply connected to the land and their villages, not professional soldiers. Before picking up weapons to fight, they had no experience with battle, their lives focused solely on tilling the soil and working the fields. They were innocent, unaware of military strategies, and had no knowledge of weapons of war, horses, or armor. Yet when the French colonized, they quickly transformed into brave warriors, rising to defend their nation.

When news of the enemy spread, the peasants were filled with rage but could not expect help from the imperial court. They took it upon themselves to defend their country. Nguyễn Đình Chiểu skillfully used vivid, relatable language that reflected the people's speech and understanding. The circumstances of their fight were starkly different. These noble warriors fought with rudimentary tools: 'ragged clothes, bamboo sticks, machetes, and sickles.' Yet these crude weapons did not deter their spirit. The enemy's advanced weaponry, 'steel ships, brass ships, large and small shells,' could not stop them. Nguyễn Đình Chiểu used strong verbs such as 'stabbed sideways,' 'sliced upwards,' 'pushed,' and 'shoved' to convey the warriors' fighting spirit. They fought valiantly, embracing death with the fearless mindset of 'the storming attack like a whirlwind, death as light as a feather.' These peasant warriors sacrificed their lives for the greater good of the nation and for the future of the country.

These soldiers died for their people, leaving behind their mourning families—elderly parents and young children. Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, like their loved ones, mourned their sacrifice. Yet, the grief did not bring defeat but continued to praise the courage of the soldiers, urging future generations to carry on their legacy. Through his writing, Nguyễn Đình Chiểu successfully portrayed these warriors as heroic figures, imbuing them with both sorrow and greatness. The tone of the eulogy is somber but full of pride, celebrating the noble farmers of Cần Giuộc.

“Văn tế nghĩa sĩ Cần Giuộc” is a masterpiece that honors the sacrifices of the peasant soldiers, a work that will endure through time. The brave, courageous warriors of Cần Giuộc will forever be an inspiring symbol and a shining example for future generations to follow.

Nguyễn Đình Chiểu (1822-1888), a passionate patriot and scholar, harbored a deep hatred for the French invaders. His life was marked by numerous tragedies and hardships, perhaps explaining his intense connection to the suffering of his homeland during the French colonization. In 1859, when the French forces seized the Gia Định fortress and advanced along the Bến Nghé River, Nguyễn Đình Chiểu sought refuge in his wife’s hometown in Thanh Ba, Cần Giuộc. As the French expanded their occupation, Cần Giuộc soon became a battleground. The farmers, clothed in simple garments, with mud-covered hands and feet, rose up to resist. Many of them joined the insurgent forces, ready to sacrifice their lives for the greater cause. The bravery and sacrifices of these soldiers deeply inspired the local people. The governor of Gia Định, Đỗ Quang, entrusted Nguyễn Đình Chiểu with composing a funeral oration for more than twenty martyrs who fell in battle on the night of December 16, 1861. With profound grief and admiration, Nguyễn Đình Chiểu wrote the "Văn tế nghĩa sĩ Cần Giuộc" (Funeral Oration for the Cần Giuộc Heroes). This work not only reflects the profound sorrow and admiration of the author and the people for the fallen soldiers but also immortalizes the true, tragic, yet heroic image of these peasant patriots fighting the French invaders.

"Alas! The guns of the invaders shake the land; the hearts of the people are clear as the sky."

When the nation is in peril, the sound of gunfire echoes throughout the land. From this danger and suffering, the deep love for the country of ordinary farmers emerges, revealing their true, unspoken devotion to their homeland. The profound love and patriotism of these simple farmers becomes more apparent as Nguyễn Đình Chiểu uses contrasting comparisons in his verses to highlight their noble hearts.

"Remember the old times:

They worked hard, struggling with poverty,

Unfamiliar with the horse and bow, far from the royal courts;

Only knowing the plow and ox in their village fields."

They worked tirelessly, with hands accustomed to labor; they were unfamiliar with weapons, shields, or flags.

These farmers led a quiet life, focused on their daily struggles for survival. Their concerns were simple: earning a living, cultivating the fields, and tending to their oxen. They had never encountered the weapons of war, nor the splendor of the royal courts. Yet, when the enemy invaded, these humble farmers stood up to fight, driven by love for their land and a deep hatred for the invaders. At a time when they were waiting for orders from a weak and indecisive court, their resolve could not be contained.

"The smell of burnt rice has lingered for three years, and the hatred for the invaders grows as deep as a farmer’s hatred for weeds..."

"When they saw the white banners of the enemy, their hearts burned with fury; when they saw the black smoke rising, they longed to tear the invaders apart."

The image of these patriotic farmers is one of courage and grandeur. Their love for their country, rooted deeply in their hearts, made them shine with an undeniable, radiant beauty. The overwhelming hatred for the invaders transformed into a resolute, heroic action against the French forces.

"No one asked for permission, no one commanded; this time, they would fight to the death:

They would not flee, they would not hide, but would march forward with all their strength."

Unlike earlier literary works where farmers reluctantly left home to fight for distant kings, these farmers, portrayed by Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, willingly took up arms to defend their land and people. This self-driven action defines the most beautiful aspect of their character. With deep love for their nation, they fought with honor, turning the tide of battle with a pure, selfless spirit.

Not waiting for orders, they fought with what little they had: "a simple piece of cloth, a bamboo spear, a machete in hand, and their bare hands to defend the country." These peasants did not have sophisticated weapons, but their determination and unity made up for this deficiency. They faced a well-equipped enemy with only crude tools, yet their spirit and passion gave them the strength to succeed.

Despite facing superior forces with "big and small bullets," "metal ships," and well-trained soldiers, they fought with only "a piece of cloth" and "a bamboo spear." Against such odds, they stood strong, proving that the power of the people’s will was greater than the strength of any weapon. The tragedy of their situation was heartbreaking, as they fought with nothing but the will to protect their land.

But it is precisely from this tragedy that the grandeur of the heroes emerges. Despite overwhelming odds, their spirit of sacrifice and fierce patriotism created extraordinary feats. These farmers, as heroic soldiers, not only fought for their homeland but became symbols of resilience and defiance. Their victories, though small, were monumental in the fight for independence.

Their simple weapons were enough to ignite the flames of resistance. "The fire ignited by straw and bamboo could burn down foreign churches; the sword, fashioned from a machete, could sever the head of the enemy officer." This contrast between the crude weapons and the heroic spirit of the people highlights the indomitable will of the Vietnamese farmers.

The image of these peasant patriots, standing tall with the fierce glow of nationalism, overshadowed the dark period of Vietnam’s history in the late 19th century. The funeral oration is like a monumental statue carved in words, immortalizing the heroes who stood for the love of the nation, hatred for foreign invaders, and the spirit of self-sacrifice. It symbolizes not just a tragic era of lost sovereignty but the unwavering spirit of the people of Southern Vietnam and the nation as a whole, ready to fight for independence, no matter the cost.

In Vietnamese literature, until Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, no depiction of the common people was as authentic and moving as the image of the peasant heroes in his "Funeral Oration for the Heroes of Cần Giuộc." Before him, ordinary people appeared in literature, but they were either distant figures like fishermen or woodcutters fleetingly present in the poems of Bà Huyện Thanh Quan, or a faceless, chaotic crowd in works like "Hoàng Lê Nhất Thống Chí." The farmers in Nguyễn Đình Chiểu’s work are entirely different. They are real, humble folk, living in their villages with only a simple cloth covering them. Their nature is kind and simple, working all year round in poverty, with little concern beyond their daily survival. Within the bamboo fences of their village, their lives are centered around their fields and livestock, perfecting their agricultural skills:

"Digging, plowing, harrowing, sowing, hands accustomed to the labor."

As poet Thanh Thảo later wrote, "The farmers, with their muddy hands, entered Đồ Chiểu’s poetry. Though Nguyễn Đình Chiểu’s heart was bright enough to discover them, it is also because, despite not wearing robes of rank, their traces of mud honored the poetry." This love for their country and their sense of duty is embodied in the peasant heroes.

When news of the enemy’s arrival reached them, the farmers, though civilians, were filled with anxiety. In old society, national matters were primarily the concern of officials, and the people followed them. Thus, they waited eagerly for news from their leaders as one would wait for rain in a drought. But even as they waited, their hearts had already made up their minds:

"When they saw the white flags fluttering, they longed to tear the invaders apart;"

"When they saw the black smoke rising, they wished to bite their enemies’ throats."

Love for the country was not exclusive to any particular class. For these simple farmers, after three years of suffering under the invaders, they hated the enemy as much as a farmer hates weeds. Thus, even with nothing but bamboo sticks in their hands, they were ready to sacrifice everything:

"Even with straw-fired firecrackers, they burned down foreign churches;"

"With machetes as swords, they beheaded enemy officers."

The farmers, though outnumbered and poorly equipped, fought with a fierce resolve. They faced overwhelming odds, armed only with cloth and bamboo, while the enemy had steel ships, guns, and ammunition. Yet, the love for their land and their hatred for the invaders drove them to face death head-on. They knew the consequences:

"In battle, the horse’s hide cannot save you;"

"In death, the grave cannot shield you from fate."

The farmers who fought for their country became "heroes of the fallen who stood tall." (Phạm Văn Đồng). This image of the barefoot hero first appeared in Vietnamese literature, embodying both tragedy and heroism. It is like a monument carved into time and space, forever etched in history, saying: "Though I die, I return the debt of the land; my name will be honored throughout the six provinces;"

Nguyễn Đình Chiểu immortalized the image of the Cần Giuộc heroes, embedding it in his poetry as a symbol of both the pain and love of a nation. These heroes "fought the invaders in life, and even in death, they fought." The poet erected this monument "for a thousand years" in the hearts of future generations through his words.

"The Funeral Oration for the Heroes of Cần Giuộc" represents the pinnacle of Nguyễn Đình Chiểu's literary work, embodying his deepest thoughts on patriotism and love for the people. With sincere compassion and admiration, the poet crafted an immortal artistic monument to the peasant hero during the nation's struggle against foreign invaders. This oration is, in essence, a tragic anthem about these farmers who, despite their humble origins, sacrificed everything for the survival of their homeland.

The first beauty in their image is their voluntary commitment to fighting the invaders. These farmers, who had spent their entire lives working the fields in solitude, with daily concerns centered on survival, now faced a moment of national crisis. They knew their place in society—peasants who had no ambitions beyond paying their taxes. Yet when the Lang Sa invaders flooded in and the officials failed to act, the farmers could not turn a blind eye. Their patriotic spirit, forged over generations, compelled them to rise up and fight for their country:

"No need for orders or commands, this time we fight with all our might;

we will not flee, we are ready to charge forward."

They took on an incredibly difficult task: challenging an enemy far stronger than themselves. Their courage and spirit were remarkable; they were ready to risk their lives, to fight not as soldiers of the royal court but as a self-organized force of villagers. Armed with nothing but bamboo sticks and crude weapons, they went into battle without any formal training. Their weapons, though rudimentary, were powerful because they were driven by a fierce love for their land:

"With straw torches, they burned the enemy’s strongholds down;"

"With machetes as swords, they severed the enemy officer’s head."

Their bravery in battle was stunning. Their simple, yet symbolic weapons—bamboo sticks and machetes—became instruments of destruction in their hands. The noise of their charge drowned out the sound of enemy cannons, and their sheer willpower made the enemy tremble. Their fierce battle cries overshadowed the roar of metal warships. Despite their crude arms, they took down enemy strongholds and decapitated their leaders. The scene was full of powerful verbs, painting a picture of a heroic, fiery struggle, where the enemy seemed small and defeated in comparison to the indomitable spirit of the peasant fighters.

Indeed, the peasant heroes of Cần Giuộc emerged as towering figures in the heat of battle, commanding the battlefield and overwhelming the enemy. The image of these farmers, with their machetes and bamboo sticks, carved their place in history as symbols of courage and patriotism. The poem itself is a masterpiece, with a resounding and urgent rhythm, capturing the intensity of the battle and the greatness of the sacrifices made. The author’s pen truly honors the grand ideals behind the farmers’ voluntary action to defend their land. The tragic deaths of the farmers, fighting an unfair and brutal battle, left the nation mourning. Their sacrifice was felt deeply by the people and the land:

"Looking to the Cần Giuộc river, the sorrow drapes over the land; watching Trường Bình market, the old and young weep together."

The artistic monument of the peasant hero is deeply tragic. It was built from the tears and sorrow of both the poet and the people. This poem serves as an immortal tribute to the heroic peasants of Southern Vietnam, an enduring symbol of the working people’s eternal brilliance.