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1. Essay reference number 4
2. Sample Essay Number 5
3. Reference Example 6
The Tale of Kieu by Nguyen Du is a masterpiece that reflects the author's prominence. Within it, the author skillfully depicts a number of characters with intense vitality, leaving a lasting impression on readers, such as Thuy Kieu, Hoan Thu, So Khanh, Ma Giam Sinh, Tu Hai...
The excerpt 'Kieu Meets Tu Hai' was written after Thuy Kieu escaped from Hoan Thu, but unfortunately fell into the hands of Bac Ba. This time, Thuy Kieu was sold into the brothel again, which caused her deep sorrow and pain. However, fate smiled upon her when she met the hero Tu Hai. Before the heroic Tu Hai, Thuy Kieu was truly moved.
'A woman's heart can sway even a hero.' When Tu Hai met Thuy Kieu, he was genuinely moved by her stunning beauty, her talent, character, and personality. Tu Hai did not hesitate to redeem her and marry her. At that moment, Thuy Kieu transformed from a brothel girl to a respected wife. This excerpt portrays the romantic encounter between Thuy Kieu and Tu Hai, skillfully illustrated by Nguyen Du, with Tu Hai being an extraordinary hero with both magnificent appearance and chivalrous spirit.
Tu Hai is truly a hero—his physical appearance and personality reflect the valor and courage of a hero. When Tu Hai meets Thuy Kieu under the moonlit autumn night, the setting is serene and romantic. Tu Hai is depicted as having a mighty appearance, which expresses the grandeur of a hero, captured through vivid verses. Nguyen Du’s language emphasizes Tu Hai’s heroic qualities:
With tiger’s beard, swallow’s jaw, and brows like a lord,
With shoulders wide as five spans, a body ten feet tall.
A true hero in the world,
Martial skills beyond measure, strategic talent at its best.
Initially, the introduction describes his appearance and skills, while later verses reveal his name and origin. The writing style both “conceals” and sparks curiosity, enhancing the mysterious and extraordinary nature of Tu Hai as a hero: audacious, unyielding, free-spirited, and indifferent to fame:
Under heaven, treading the earth in life,
Tu Hai, born in the East of Vietnam.
Familiar with the ways of the wild,
With sword and lute, controlling the land alone.
Tu Hai exudes the bravery of a man who stands tall and unbowed, one who fears neither heaven nor earth. His stance is resolute, grounded, showing his unwavering spirit. Through Nguyen Du’s description, we can sense the author’s deep respect for Tu Hai as a hero.
In every verse, Nguyen Du conveys his admiration and affection for his character. Tu Hai embodies the ideal hero, representing the desire for freedom, an adventurous spirit, and a quest for perfection in life. Tu Hai is truly a remarkable figure in The Tale of Kieu.
Tu Hai is also a man of integrity, which is why he does not judge Thuy Kieu for her past as a brothel girl. He recognizes her pure heart, wisdom, and virtue, and immediately redeems her and marries her.
She was brought to the red tower,
With a glance exchanged, mutual feelings were stirred.
In the first meeting, both of them had very different outward expressions. When Thuy Kieu met Kim Trong, she was shy and hesitant, embodying the innocence of a young girl who is just beginning to experience love, 'Her feelings inside were clear, but her exterior shy.' However, when Thuy Kieu met Tu Hai, 'Both exchanged glances, and their hearts were drawn to each other.'
Each verse by Nguyen Du captures the mutual understanding between the two, symbolizing their connection. Their first encounter was not one of romantic desire but rather a meeting of kindred spirits. Thuy Kieu, after enduring numerous hardships and unfulfilled relationships, longed for a strong, understanding companion, and Tu Hai provided that support, creating a new sense of happiness.
When a word reaches the heart,
All things and places feel the same.
Tu Hai’s decision to redeem Thuy Kieu and take her out of the brothel is a noble act, showing his honor and upright character. He marries Thuy Kieu, seeing her as his soulmate, and thus she transforms from a brothel girl into a respected lady.
She truly becomes a virtuous and responsible wife, always concerned for Tu Hai, maintaining the honor and loyalty of their marriage. Their union is romantic and full of affection, with two talented and beautiful people perfectly suited for each other:
A hero’s son and a talented beauty,
Sworn to be together, riding the dragon's wings.
This passage, with its formal tone and respectful language, reflects Nguyen Du’s deep admiration for the couple. Thuy Kieu, now a graceful woman, and Tu Hai, a hero with a tender heart, come together in a perfect union. For Thuy Kieu, this marks a turning point, transforming her from a girl in a brothel to a lady of influence, gaining the opportunity to repay her debts and seek justice for those who helped or harmed her.
Nguyen Du holds great esteem for the love between Thuy Kieu and Kim Trong, and in this work, he uses beautiful words to immortalize Tu Hai as a heroic, chivalrous figure, always aspiring to freedom.
Through this excerpt, we can see Nguyen Du’s humanitarian spirit toward his character Thuy Kieu. He consistently shows compassion and kindness toward her, writing each verse with deep empathy for a girl of great talent and beauty who endures immense hardship.
4. Reference Example 7
This excerpt consists of 48 lines from the *Truyện Kiều* by Nguyễn Du, spanning from line 2165 to line 2212. The 12 lines between 2183 and 2194 have been omitted, leaving 36 lines. After escaping from the clutches of Hoạn Thư, Kiều falls into the hands of Bạc Bà, Bạc Hạnh, marking the second time she is sold into a brothel. However, luck is on her side as she meets Từ Hải. His admiration for her beauty and virtues is evident as he rescues Kiều from the brothel and marries her. This passage vividly portrays the romance and fateful connection between Kiều and Từ Hải, celebrating Từ Hải as a remarkable hero, a passionate and noble man.
Từ Hải is a true hero, with a mysterious background: "biên đình guest", from a distant borderland... He meets Kiều under a serene moonlit night. Unexpectedly, this is no ordinary man; his striking appearance is described through five vivid metaphors:
With a tiger’s beard and swallow’s jaw,
Broad shoulders and a towering figure.
Possessing exceptional martial skills and strategic acumen, Từ Hải is an undeniable hero:
He is a true hero,
With the strength of his fists and the wisdom of his tactics.
Initially, only his appearance and skills are introduced, but as the poem progresses, we learn his name and background. This writing style, both subtle and intriguing, emphasizes the extraordinary and mysterious nature of Từ Hải’s character: rebellious, unyielding, and free-spirited, indifferent to fame and fortune:
He defies the heavens and walks the earth,
He is Từ Hải, a man from the East.
In the world of martial heroes,
With his sword and lute, he fights for the nation.
Từ Hải embodies the ideal hero, filled with a yearning for freedom. Along with Kiều and Kim Trọng, he represents the inspiring human spirit in *Truyện Kiều*. Từ Hải is also a passionate man, falling for Kiều at first sight. Just hearing her name, his heart is taken: "Even heroes can be captivated by a woman’s heart". His immediate affection for her is evident:
She was named and brought to the red pavilion,
They exchanged glances, both hearts admiring one another.
Despite the similar initial meeting, the emotions and expressions vary: When Kiều meets Kim Trọng, she is shy and reserved, while with Từ Hải, it is mutual admiration. These lines convey the different flavors of love and the romantic tension between Kiều and both men.
When Từ Hải meets Kiều, it is not a fleeting attraction but the discovery of a soulmate. Their bond is deepened by their shared values and aspirations. Từ Hải recognizes Kiều as his true companion, and he assures her of his commitment, no matter their circumstances. Their connection is rooted in mutual respect and love:
Once we know each other,
We are bound by fate, in every moment and forever.
In a dignified manner, Từ Hải rescues Kiều from the brothel. He marries her, bringing her into a life of peace and happiness, far from the chaos of the world. The once-heroic warrior finds contentment in a quiet life with Kiều:
He’s a warrior used to battle,
Now he settles in a home of love and peace.
Từ Hải is a hero with a passionate heart. Kiều, once a woman of the brothel, is now a refined lady of virtue. Their union symbolizes the romanticism in *Truyện Kiều*. Together, they make a beautiful pair:
A hero and a beautiful maiden,
Destined to be together, their love soaring high.
The tone of the poem is respectful and noble. Từ Hải’s marriage to Kiều reflects both his heroic nature and his deep affection for her. For Kiều, this love marks a life-altering change—she moves from her previous, constrained existence to a new life full of freedom and happiness. The story of Từ Hải and Kiều illustrates not only love but also the values of loyalty, courage, and compassion.
Nguyễn Du cherishes the love between the hero and the maiden, and praises Từ Hải for his remarkable qualities. This passage is filled with profound humanism and contains many unforgettable lines that stay with readers for years to come.
5. Reference Example 8
When people discuss *Truyện Kiều* by Nguyễn Du, they often focus on the themes surrounding Kiều’s life and fate, or the depiction of characters like Thúy Kiều, Thúy Vân, and Kim Trọng, rarely touching on others. Among them, Từ Hải stands out as an important figure, a hero whose noble actions aid Kiều, granting her brief yet profound moments of happiness. Through Từ Hải, we glimpse a different kind of beauty in *Truyện Kiều*.
The purpose behind crafting Từ Hải’s character goes beyond saving Kiều’s life. He represents the heroic ideals of his time, embodying the strength and virtue of those who defied the challenges of their world. By studying this character, we delve into both his outward appearance and his heroic inner qualities.
First, Từ Hải’s physical appearance is presented in a grand and iconic manner, reminiscent of the heroes of ancient tales. His form is described as towering and robust, with the lines of Nguyễn Du underscoring the magnitude of his figure: "Broad shoulders five spans wide, a body ten spans high." These descriptions evoke the image of a truly legendary hero. Từ Hải’s physicality is portrayed as larger than life, fitting the heroic ideal of the age. Further, Nguyễn Du elaborates on his external features with these striking lines:
"With a tiger's beard and a swallow's jaw, Broad shoulders and a towering form."
These lines reflect the grand, timeless qualities of ancient heroes. But Từ Hải’s character extends beyond physical strength. He demonstrates a profound compassion for Kiều, a woman of unmatched beauty and grace. Like many heroes in ancient epics, his love for Kiều transcends her circumstances, and his affection is expressed through these words:
"For long, I've heard of this beauty, Her blue eyes, unattainable by all men. How many true heroes meet in a lifetime? What does it matter if she's confined?"
Từ Hải’s deep love for Kiều leads him to rescue her from her confined life. Together, they experience true happiness as a couple, a contrast to her previous relationship with Thúc Sinh. In aiding Kiều, Từ Hải not only helps her seek revenge but also becomes the embodiment of an indomitable spirit:
"Half a year of passion burned bright, Yet the hero’s heart yearns for the four corners of the world."
Although love is crucial to a hero, it does not bind him. Despite his love for Kiều, Từ Hải’s ambitions push him to leave, with the goal of building a legacy for her future. Even as Kiều bids him farewell, Từ Hải departs with unwavering resolve, sword in hand:
"With sword drawn, on horseback, he rides toward destiny."
Từ Hải’s heroism is further demonstrated in his martial prowess. On the battlefield, he remains steadfast and unafraid, even in the face of failure. His resolve is epitomized in these lines:
"When the divine spirit arrives, He stands resolute, unwavering in battle."
Thus, Từ Hải becomes the very symbol of a heroic figure, both in physical form and moral character. Nguyễn Du succeeds in portraying a hero whose presence enriches *Truyện Kiều*, adding depth to the narrative’s allure and timelessness.
6. Reference Example 9
After six months of living together, Kiều and Từ Hải had built a home, and their love for each other was at its peak. Yet, in the midst of this, Từ Hải’s heart was drawn towards the world beyond, his ambitions pulling him in all directions. As the saying goes, a hero’s aspirations span the four corners of the earth, and Nguyễn Công Trứ once wrote: "The ambition of a man should stretch across the north, south, east, and west, to freely roam the vast world." A true man’s duty is to honor his family and legacy, and to live in a way that brings glory. Perhaps it was this very feudal system that separated Từ Hải from Kiều, imposing upon him the ideals of masculinity that eventually drove him to leave. Nonetheless, it was also these same ideals that motivated him to protect her and define his own path.
"Six months of burning passion, Yet the hero's heart yearns for the world beyond."
Từ Hải was always prepared—his sword in hand, his horse ready. He knew that, sooner or later, he would depart. He had steeled himself not to linger, for he was a man of resolve, someone who would rather shed blood than tears.
"The vast sky and sea before him, With sword drawn and horse ready, he rode on without hesitation."
The surrounding vastness—endless and infinite—mirrored his own decisive, unyielding spirit. He seemed to merge with the heavens and earth, becoming monumental in his ambition, reaching for the farthest reaches of the universe.
"Determined, he tore his cloak and set out, The winds and clouds signifying the time had come."
Từ Hải transcended ordinary men—Nguyễn Du portrayed him almost as a celestial being, riding the wind and clouds, crossing mountains, seas, and overcoming countless obstacles. His resolve remained unbroken, his words clear, as he left:
"A man is born to challenge fate, Sworn to make the heavens and earth bend to his will."
He wanted to provide Kiều with a life of happiness, confident in his own abilities, much like Đào Uyên Minh, who had confidence in his youthful vigor.
"When I command an army of a hundred thousand, With the sound of drums shaking the earth, flags filling the streets, I will show my true worth, And then I will return to bring Kiều to her rightful place."
Từ Hải was certain he would realize his dreams of becoming a general, leading an army, and one day bringing Kiều to his mansion with grand ceremonies. He envisioned her as a lady of high status, while those who had wronged her would tremble in fear. He believed this would happen soon—"It’s only a matter of time, perhaps a year or so."
"She said: A woman’s fate is to follow her man, If you go, I will follow you."
Từ Hải was both concerned and frustrated by Kiều’s response, still not fully understanding why she had not freed herself from the constraints of traditional femininity:
"If the world is vast and without home, Where will I take you?"
Từ Hải wanted his wife to be strong, independent, and adventurous, like the legendary Mộc Lan, who had followed her army, braving the hardships of war. Yet, at the same time, he did not want her to suffer. He wanted her to live a life of luxury and ease, rather than endure hardship. This inner conflict showed his deep care and affection for her.
Nguyễn Du skillfully portrayed Từ Hải as both a man of extraordinary ambition and power, as well as a devoted and loving husband. His complex character revealed the tensions between personal aspirations and the desires to care for loved ones, showcasing the depth of human emotion and heroism. John S. Mill once remarked, "The truth always triumphs over the falsehoods that are repeated until they become commonplace." *Truyện Kiều* illustrates this truth, as Từ Hải, despite his heroism and idealism, is ultimately defeated by darker forces. However, his brief appearance serves to highlight the hope for justice and happiness that Nguyễn Du wove into his work.
7. Reference Example 10
8. Reference Paper No. 11
9. Reference Paper No. 12
Nguyen Du is one of the most prominent and talented figures in Vietnam's medieval literature and the country's literary tradition as a whole. His literary contributions, in both Nom and Han characters, include many exceptional works, among which "The Tale of Kieu" stands as a masterpiece of national literature. In this work, readers repeatedly witness Thuy Kieu bidding farewell to her loved ones, yet the farewell that leaves the most lasting impression is that between Kieu and Tu Hai. The excerpt "Heroic Spirit" vividly depicts that farewell, showcasing the boldness and beauty of the hero Tu Hai.
At the outset of the excerpt, Tu Hai appears as a man with a strong desire to set out and a yearning to conquer and roam freely across the world.
As the incense burns bright,
The heroic man’s heart stirs to journey far.
Gazing towards the vast skies and seas,
With sword in hand, steed ready, he heads off without hesitation.
The opening verses of the excerpt set the stage for Tu Hai’s departure. The phrase "as the incense burns bright" represents a time when Kieu and Tu Hai's love and life are at their peak of warmth and happiness. Yet, even in this tender moment, Tu Hai’s desire to embark on his journey becomes clearer than ever. The word "suddenly" used by the poet highlights the decisiveness and swift action of Tu Hai. What moves him to leave is the call of the "four directions," symbolizing the vast, boundless universe and his ambition to establish a name and career, to roam the world. Moreover, Tu Hai's departure is symbolized by his sword, horse, and the direct path ahead, which paints a vivid image of a hero setting off alone, resolute in his mission. This is a portrayal of a man with a noble stance, free of hesitation, equal to the vastness of the universe. Thus, through these four lines, the poet conveys Tu Hai’s heroism and his powerful desire to journey and conquer the world, unstoppable by anything.
Not only is Tu Hai driven by the ambition to roam freely across the lands, but he is also portrayed as a hero with a sense of honor and a deep, unbreakable bond with his confidante. This beauty of his character is evident in his response when Thuy Kieu expresses her wish to accompany him.
He said: "My true confidante, do you still cling to the common desires of a woman?"
Upon hearing Thuy Kieu express her desire to follow him and care for him, Tu Hai gently reproaches her, suggesting that she has not yet risen above the usual longings of a woman. He then skillfully refuses her request, citing the philosophy of a true confidante and urging her to stay behind. Tu Hai considers Thuy Kieu as his true confidante, someone who understands his every feeling and decision. He hopes that she can rise above the ordinary wishes of a woman and truly embody the role of a loyal companion to a hero. This refusal demonstrates Tu Hai’s commitment to his lofty goals, prioritizing them over personal emotions.
Furthermore, Tu Hai is a man confident in his own abilities, as evidenced by the promise he makes to Thuy Kieu.
"When I command ten thousand elite soldiers, the sound of drums will shake the earth, and the silver light will flood the roads. Only then will I bring you to my side as my wife."
This line signifies Tu Hai’s determination and belief in his own capabilities. The images of "ten thousand soldiers," "the sound of drums," and "the silver light flooding the road" invoke a sense of grandeur and ambition that mirrors the vastness of the universe. His desire to "show his extraordinary face" speaks to his wish to establish a prestigious reputation across the world, excelling above all. This is a declaration of his unwavering confidence in his own abilities. He promises Thuy Kieu that once he has achieved his goals, he will return for her and offer her a life of happiness. This highlights his concern for her, as well as his belief in his success. Thus, Tu Hai’s departure is not only a pursuit of his ideals but also an aspiration for a life of extraordinary happiness, a partnership between a heroic man and a noble woman.
Moreover, the poet subtly foreshadows the hardships Tu Hai will face in his journey to success.
"The vast world holds no place for me,"
"I know not where my path leads, yet I shall wait, for I will return."
The imagery of "the vast world holding no place for me" subtly hints at the challenges and difficulties that the hero will encounter as he embarks on his journey to establish his name and honor. Tu Hai’s promise to return after "one year" further reflects his confidence in overcoming these obstacles and achieving his great aspirations.
Additionally, Tu Hai’s character is shown to be resolute and full of determination as he leaves without hesitation or attachment.
"With a final decision, I shall leave,"
"The wind and clouds have come, and the time has come to set sail."
Through just two lines, the poet vividly portrays Tu Hai’s unyielding resolve to leave. The repeated use of words like "decide," "leave," and "set sail" emphasizes his firm stance, showing that no personal attachments can sway his will. The metaphor of the "giant bird" further symbolizes the vast ambitions of this hero, whose ideals reach beyond the bounds of the earth.
In conclusion, through idealizing the character of Tu Hai and using symbolic and allegorical imagery, the excerpt "Heroic Spirit" successfully establishes the image of a heroic figure. Through Tu Hai, Nguyen Du expresses his vision of the ideal hero and the pursuit of justice.
10. Reference Example 1
Nguyễn Du's writing is remarkable in its ability to create vivid and authentic characters in 'Truyện Kiều', leaving a lasting impression on readers. His characters are multifaceted, with both universal and unique traits, particularly in terms of psychology and personality. With just a few carefully chosen lines, Nguyễn Du unveils the essence of his characters. The excerpt 'The Heroic Spirit of Từ Hải'—where Từ Hải sets out to establish his legacy and bids farewell to Thúy Kiều—beautifully demonstrates Nguyễn Du's art of character portrayal.
Từ Hải is a romantic, yet first and foremost, he is a brave man with strong resolve. His grand aspirations are matched by the determination to achieve them. In Từ Hải, the desire for freedom and power, symbolized by the vast expanse of the heavens and earth, becomes an unstoppable force of nature. Living in the warmth of domestic bliss, he is suddenly stirred by the call to adventure, focusing his mind on the boundless world ahead. His call to action is not just an ordinary thought—it's a powerful urge to conquer the four corners of the earth. In the first two lines, we see that Từ Hải is no ordinary man but someone with the ambition of a great hero. The imagery in the next lines—the vast sky and sea, his readiness with just a sword and steed—underscores his heroic resolve.
Từ Hải's words as he bids farewell reflect his heroic nature. He is a man driven by an extraordinary mission and cannot remain confined to a life of domestic happiness. Although surrounded by love and comfort, the call to greatness stirs him, placing his ambition above all else. For Từ Hải, his mission is the essence of life itself, and it is through this mission that he can fulfill the hopes placed upon him by his dearest friend. As a result, there is no lingering sadness in his farewell. Moreover, in his gentle reproach to Kiều for still being attached to conventional female desires, he encourages her to rise above such emotions and become the wife of a true hero. Thus, Kiều's future longing for Từ Hải is not just for the man she loves, but also for his future success.
Từ Hải exudes confidence and self-reliance. Even in the harshest of times, he saw himself as a hero, with his future glory already within his grasp. Now, embarking on his journey with nothing but his sword and steed, he confidently declares that within a year, he will return with vast power and riches.
Từ Hải is a character created through Nguyễn Du’s idealizing style. In this passage, the language and artistic imagery depict Từ Hải as a man of extraordinary character.
A hero is someone with immense resolve. The term 'suddenly' reflects the decisiveness of Từ Hải. The phrase 'stirred by the four corners of the world' emphasizes that Từ Hải is not just a man of one family, town, or village—he belongs to the world. The phrase 'tear off his robe' in the line 'Decidedly tear off his robe and leave' illustrates the character’s dramatic and resolute departure.
Furthermore, Từ Hải’s departure is not just like that of an ordinary man. The image of 'the wind and clouds are ready for the journey' symbolizes the grand ambition of this great man. Từ Hải departs with only his sword and steed, but he confidently promises that, within a year, he will return with an army of one hundred thousand soldiers. While the exact means of achieving this are not explained, Kiều believes in him, and the reader has no reason to doubt his ability.
Nguyễn Du successfully uses language, imagery, and idealized character portrayal to transform Từ Hải into a heroic, extraordinary figure, full of life and specific, vivid details.
11. Reference Example 2
The heroic spirit excerpted from the second part 'Gia Biến và Lưu Lạc' (Family Transformation and Wanderings) in Nguyễn Du's 'Truyện Kiều' is an original creation of the author and does not appear in the Chinese text. This passage vividly captures the image of the hero Từ Hải, while conveying profound messages through his character.
The text describes the farewell between Thúy Kiều and Từ Hải after six months of passionate love. Từ Hải departs to pursue his grand ambitions, embodying the determination of a hero with lofty, noble aspirations. Before this excerpt, Nguyễn Du introduces Từ Hải as a hero, emphasizing his striking appearance:
With a tiger's beard and a swallow's jaw
Broad shoulders and a towering frame
Or his talent in skill:
A true hero in every sense
With martial prowess and strategic acumen.
The first four lines highlight his vast aspirations and noble dreams:
"Half a year of love now fading
The hero’s heart swiftly stirs across the world
Looking towards the vast skies and seas
With sword in hand, he sets out boldly."
At the peak of their love, Từ Hải decides to leave and pursue his grand goal. While it is difficult for most men to abandon personal happiness, Từ Hải is different. Despite being in the happiest phase of his life, the burning desires and ambitions in his heart compel him to act. His decision to depart is swift, marked by the word “thoắt,” signaling his quick, resolute change.
His aspirations drive him to leave immediately. His gaze into the distance reflects his confidence and determination. Nguyễn Du’s choice of words like “hero,” “stirring his heart,” and “vast skies and seas” paints a picture of the expansive space where Từ Hải can realize his greatness.
Through these first four lines, Nguyễn Du sketches the image of an ideal hero with immense dreams, who embraces the vast world. Từ Hải’s heroism is further revealed in his dialogue with Thúy Kiều. His words show his love for her, his understanding of her concerns, and his desire to reassure her. He affirms their deep bond and chides her for being bound by conventional feminine thoughts:
Từ said: A true confidante understands
Why are you still caught in the usual feminine ways?
Từ Hải, a man of great determination, believes his wife, his confidante, must be a strong, understanding woman, not someone trapped in the usual roles. To comfort Thúy Kiều, he promises:
When I have ten thousand elite soldiers
The sound of drums will shake the earth, the sight of my army will cover the sky
Then, I will return to marry you in glory.
These words demonstrate Từ Hải’s deep affection for Thúy Kiều, his desire to protect her. He also explains to her that her wish to follow him is impractical: the world is vast, and following him would only bring confusion. Yet, he promises to return in a year to bring her back with great honor. His speech reflects his love and his ambition to build a powerful army capable of shaking the world. His mission is greater than personal attachment.
Từ Hải’s great ambition is also evident in his claim that he will complete his goals within a year. For a man with such lofty ambitions, one year is an incredibly short time to build a legacy, yet it reveals his confidence in his own abilities. Through his dialogue with Thúy Kiều, the reader can see both Từ Hải’s grand aspirations and his deep love for her.
The final two lines emphasize Từ Hải’s resolve: "With firm words, I leave, my journey set." The use of words like “firm,” “cut,” and “leave” highlights his decisive, unshakable will. The image of a mythical bird soaring high above the sea illustrates the noble ideals and lofty ambitions of the hero.
Through symbolic and allegorical language, Nguyễn Du successfully portrays Từ Hải as a hero with great aspirations, yearning to soar across the seas. The image of Từ Hải embodies Nguyễn Du's belief in justice and his personal vision for the future.
12. Sample Essay Number 3
Through Nguyễn Du's writing, Từ Hải emerges as a heroic figure, someone who stands strong with the sky above and the earth beneath him. When he rescues Kiều from the brothel, it is out of duty and his deep regard for Kiều as a soulmate. However, when he marries Kiều, Từ becomes a man of deep affection. Yet, even with his love, he never forgets his larger purpose as a warrior. In feudal society, a man must have aspirations to conquer the vast world. Từ Hải embodies a great hero with the resolve to achieve his noble goals. Even though he lives a happy life with Kiều, he remains focused on his mission. In the midst of their bliss, his heart is moved, and his thoughts turn toward the vast world and the mission ahead, symbolized by his sword and steady steed.
The author depicts Từ Hải as mounting his steed and setting off on his journey before he and Kiều bid farewell. Is there any inconsistency here? No, because the phrase "thẳng rong" can be interpreted as a "hurried farewell," meaning it was not illogical for Từ Hải to mount his steed before speaking. This part of the departure is unique compared to the previous farewells of Kiều with Kim Trọng and Thúc Sinh. When Kiều parts with Kim Trọng, it is to send him back to his hometown for a family funeral, full of longing for her first love. The farewell with Thúc Sinh is tinged with uncertainty, as they know Hoạn Thư’s nature makes it hard for them to reunite. But the farewell to Từ Hải is one to a hero setting out to conquer the world. Therefore, the nature of these farewells is different. Từ Hải's words to Kiều reflect his extraordinary character. First, Từ Hải is a man of remarkable resolve. When Kiều says:
She said: "A woman's fate is to follow her husband,
If you go, I too wish to follow you."
Từ Hải replied:
He said: "A true confidant understands,
Why are you still trapped by the typical concerns of a woman?"
In his response, Từ Hải conveys both advice and trust in Kiều. He hopes Kiều will understand him, that being true soulmates means sharing everything in life, while also encouraging her to overcome the typical hesitations of a woman and embrace being the wife of a great hero. He dreams of achieving success and returning to Kiều with honor:
When I have ten thousand elite soldiers,
The sound of war drums will shake the earth, and the banner will fill the sky.
My success will prove my greatness,
Then I will return and take you as my noble wife.
Indeed, this is the farewell of a man of great ambition, not weakly clinging to the moment like Thúc Sinh. For Từ Hải, his heroic journey gives meaning to life itself. Moreover, he believes that achieving his lofty goals will prove worthy of Kiều’s trust and admiration. Second, Từ Hải is a man who exudes great self-confidence:
I’ll wait, just a little while,
A year will pass quickly, what’s the rush?
From his thoughts to his actions and words, Từ Hải’s departure demonstrates his strong self-assurance. He believes that within a year, he will accomplish his goals and return with a great fortune. In this passage, the author skillfully combines classical Chinese and colloquial language, blending symbolic imagery and historical references. Notably, Nguyễn Du has idealized the character of Từ Hải. Every word and image used serves this purpose perfectly.
Regarding language, the author uses the term "trượng phu" only for Từ Hải, signifying a man with great resolve. Another key term is "thoắt" in the couplet:
Half a year of love in bloom,
The hero suddenly feels the pull of distant lands.
Had Từ Hải lacked resolve, he would have forgotten his mission during their happy moments. But he, unlike others, immediately remembers his purpose. His resolve fits his nature, and he believes that achieving greatness is the only way to earn Kiều's trust and love. The phrase "động lòng bốn phương" expresses Từ Hải’s ambition to serve the world beyond just his home and village. The phrase "dứt áo ra đi" captures his firm decision to leave, emphasizing the strength of his character in this farewell.
In terms of imagery, the phrase "Gió mây bằng đã đến kì dặm khơi" is a beautiful and meaningful comparison, likening Từ Hải to a great bird soaring through the sky. The image conveys not just the hero’s physical journey, but his emotional freedom as he ventures into the world. This does not mean Từ Hải is not saddened by leaving Kiều, but it reinforces his determined spirit. The line "Thanh gươm yên ngựa lên đường thẳng rong" shows that Từ Hải mounted his steed before speaking his farewell, a symbol of his heroic and noble spirit in feudal society.
The dialogue and descriptions also have special significance. Kiều knows Từ Hải leaves with nothing but still wishes to follow him. Her words "tòng" not only reflect the Confucian view of a woman’s duty to follow her husband, but also her commitment to share the hardships of his life. Từ Hải’s comment about Kiều not being free from the usual feminine concerns isn’t a criticism, but a wish for her to be strong enough to be the wife of a hero. Từ Hải’s promise of a return with ten thousand soldiers shows his confidence and the deep connection between them, proving their true understanding of each other.
This excerpt celebrates Từ Hải’s heroic spirit, his extraordinary resolve, and once again emphasizes the deep, soulful bond between Kiều and Từ Hải, not merely a typical marital love.
