Top 5 Best Lesson Plans for 'Xúy Vân giả dại' from the Kết nối tri thức Vietnamese Literature 10 Textbook

Before reading Question 1 (page 127, Literature textbook, Grade 10, Volume 1): - If someone asked me to spend time watching a traditional cheo play, I would agree if I had time. Question 2 (page 127, Literature textbook, Grade 10, Volume 1): - I have heard of the name of this cheo play, but I have never had the chance to watch it. *Reading the Text Suggestions for answering the questions in the reading: - Imagine how the actor would perform this dialogue. What kind of actions would they do? - The actor would move in sync with the music, with decisive gestures, stumbling movements, etc. - What psychological state of the character is revealed in this dialogue? - It expresses deep sorrow and despair. The character’s scream, full of reproach, leads to tears of frustration. - The act of praying with hands folded symbolizes a call for empathy and understanding from society. Pay attention to how the character introduces themselves to the audience: - The character presents their background, personal details, family life, and personality in a brief introduction. What is the meaning of the image of a couple clinging to each other here? - The couple symbolizes Xúy Vân’s simple wish for a peaceful, loving family life in the future. It represents her longing for a life of mutual care, where the husband works in the field, and the wife prepares food. Consider the character’s self-awareness: - This reflects the inner conflict of a woman whose love has slipped out of reach, leaving her filled with sorrow and confusion. - She compares herself to a small fish trapped in a muddy pond, struggling with the fate she cannot escape. - The sense of being lost, uncertain, and entangled in life’s traps is poignant. Pay attention to the unusual language and references used by the character, who may be pretending to be mad: - The things described seem illogical and reversed: - The egg hatches a crow, perched on a tree. - The night and the temple are intertwined in strange ways. - The hat, the beam, the pillar... - Under the river, selling bowls. - On the sea, cutting wood and building houses. - Riding a chicken to fight enemies. *After reading Main content: The text portrays Xúy Vân, whose songs are a blend of madness and clarity, reflecting her unfulfilled life and the crushing disappointment of dreams. The passage continues her monologue, revealing her bitterness over the disparity between her hopes for happiness and the harsh reality. Suggestions for answering questions after reading: Question 1 (page 131, Literature textbook, Grade 10, Volume 1): - After marrying Kim Nham, the man immerses himself in studying for the exams, leaving Xúy Vân in loneliness and sorrow. In the village, she is courted by Trần Phương, who offers sweet promises. She pretends to be mad to escape Kim Nham and follow Trần Phương. Question 2 (page 131, Literature textbook, Grade 10, Volume 1): - In the cheo play, Xúy Vân feigns madness. The dialogue that most clearly illustrates her ‘mad’ language is the final part, where she sings in reverse from “Chiếc trống cơm, ai khéo vỗ nên bông” to “cưỡi con gà mà đi đánh giặc”. - The unusual imagery in her speech seems nonsensical and illogical: - The egg hatches a crow on a tree. - The temple at night, the strange things happening. - The hat, the pillar, and other strange references. - All these reflect a chaotic, confused mind. Question 3 (page 131, Literature textbook, Grade 10, Volume 1): - In the opening, Xúy Vân appears with erratic movements and half-conscious songs. She sings a lament to bà Nguyệt about her unfulfilled love, using the image of a boat to describe her life as a woman waiting for her husband, with her happiness lost in the flow of time. - Her songs express a deep yearning and the frustration of watching her youth slip away while waiting in vain for love to come. Question 4 (page 131, Literature textbook, Grade 10, Volume 1): - Between the images of the chicken and the peacock, the stark difference in their nature highlights a societal contradiction and the unfair treatment Xúy Vân faces: - “Bông bông dắt, bông bông díu” (flowers entwined) - These images evoke a sense of emotional conflict, the struggle between moral expectations and genuine love. Question 5 (page 131, Literature textbook, Grade 10, Volume 1): - The character uses self-narration, presenting their identity, commenting on their actions and character. - The interaction between the actor and the audience creates a connection, inviting the audience to engage with the performance. Question 6 (page 131, Literature textbook, Grade 10, Volume 1): - The language in cheo is characterized by familiar poetic forms, often with rhythmic patterns: - Free verse: “Painfully pleading, Crying to bà Nguyệt, Lying down in agony, Wishing for death.” - Lục bát (6-8 syllable verse): “Wind and moon, let them drift, Keep our promise, never break it.” - The use of folk songs and rhymed forms enhances the expression of emotions. Question 7 (page 131, Literature textbook, Grade 10, Volume 1): - The strict marriage system, where parents decide the fate of their children. - The concept of ‘tam tòng tứ đức’ (three obediences, four virtues). - Rural life is self-sufficient, with little external influence. Neighbors live in harmony, supporting each other when needed. Question 8 (page 131, Literature textbook, Grade 10, Volume 1): - To be with Trần Phương, Xúy Vân decides to feign madness to justify divorcing Kim Nham. - Xúy Vân is a beautiful, diligent woman, but in the feudal system, she has no right to choose her own happiness or love. Her marriage to Kim Nham was arranged by her parents without love. - Her dream of a happy family life with her husband, “he plows, she harvests,” is shattered when she is left alone while Kim Nham focuses on his studies. Question 9 (page 131, Literature textbook, Grade 10, Volume 1): - The long time spent on stage in a cheo performance compared to reading the text reflects how the performance adds layers through the actors’ movements, singing, and dancing. The story’s plot is supplemented by these elements, creating a richer, more immersive experience on stage. Reading and Writing Connection Throughout the play, we witness the deep beauty of human empathy and the burning desire for love that never fades in the heart of a woman. The longing for love naturally shines through, evoking understanding and compassion for Xúy Vân. The play serves as a critique of forced marriages and promotes true love. “Women are noble creatures, they suffer but create the beauty of the divine in our mundane world.” The emotional resonance of a woman’s longing for love creates a timeless melody in the folklore of literature, echoing through the ages, stirring the soul of humanity.

I. Understanding the play 'Xúy Vân giả dại' Genre: Chèo is a traditional Vietnamese theatrical art form. It flourished in northern Vietnam, particularly in the Red River Delta, with extensions to the northern midlands and the North Central region. This form of theatre is highly developed, deeply rooted in national culture, and known for its populist nature. Chèo performances are characterized by rich, multi-layered language and metaphorical expressions that blend storytelling with lyrical elements. Origin: 'Xúy Vân giả dại' is a prominent excerpt from the Kim Nam style of Chèo and is considered one of the finest excerpts in classical Vietnamese Chèo. Mode of Expression: Narrative + Expressive Summary: In the text, Xúy Vân’s songs shift between madness and clarity, expressing the frustration of a broken, lonely, and meaningless life. Her monologues explore the deep disappointment that arises from the conflict between her hopes for happiness and the harsh reality of her circumstances. Content Value: It highlights the legitimate desire for happiness in Xúy Vân, which remains unfulfilled due to the patriarchal feudal system. Artistic Value: - The portrayal of the complex psychological development of the character Thúy Vân - The narrative technique of blending mad and rational speech to express inner conflict - The use of diverse vocal styles and melodies to reflect the shifts in the character's emotions and psychological state II. A Detailed Study of 'Xúy Vân giả dại' a) The Songs: All the lines sung are by Xúy Vân. While many of her lyrics appear nonsensical, there are moments of profound clarity that subtly reveal her true emotional state. b) Xúy Vân’s Emotional Journey: Her emotions are multi-faceted, reflecting various stages of despair: - Feeling incomplete and forsaken: 'I wait for the boat that never comes.' 'I shouldn't wait. My friends mock me.' This illustrates her sense of unfulfilled expectations and failure. - Feeling lost and meaningless in her marriage: 'The wild chicken doesn't care...' This shows her frustration with her situation. - The disappointment between dreams and reality: 'When will the rice bloom...' She wishes for a simple life, but her husband remains absorbed in his scholarly ambitions, leaving her with no shared connection. - A sense of hopelessness, loneliness, and frustration: 'The fish swims in a narrow stream...' This metaphor conveys her isolation, unable to share her burden even with neighbors. - A complete lack of direction, evident through her chaotic speech: 'Rats climb the fence, preparing for battle.' This is an illustration of her inner disorientation. c) The Tragic Character of Xúy Vân: Her marriage was arranged hastily by her parents, without love. Despite being a diligent, hard-working woman who dreams of a simple life ('waiting for rice to be harvested and bringing meals'), Xúy Vân finds herself trapped in an unfulfilled relationship with Kim Nham, a man obsessed with his own scholarly pursuits. Her tragic fate is deepened by her emotional conflict, as she yearns for love and freedom, especially after meeting Trần Phương. However, her idealistic hopes are crushed, leading her to madness and despair. d) The Artistic Expression of Xúy Vân’s Emotional State: The excerpt effectively captures the tumultuous and tragic inner life of Xúy Vân. Her calls for a boat symbolize her futile search for a way out. The songs, especially those in the style of the wild chicken, express her frustrations with her role in the marriage and her isolation. The back-and-forth between reason and madness in her speech reveals the internal conflict she struggles with. The play portrays the life of Xúy Vân as a tragic reflection of the plight of women in a feudal society, constrained by rigid norms and unable to pursue personal happiness. Pre-reading Questions Q1, page 126 of Literature 10 Textbook: Response: Students should explain based on their personal preferences and opinions. Q2, page 126 of Literature 10 Textbook: Response: The title 'Xúy Vân giả dại' piques curiosity, especially regarding the plot and whether it portrays a woman who is truly mad or if there is a deeper lesson behind her apparent insanity. During Reading Questions Q1, page 126 of Literature 10 Textbook: Response: The actor should express feelings of sorrow and regret on their face, accompanied by self-blaming actions, such as pounding their chest or pulling their hair, to convey the emotional weight of the character. Q2, page 128 of Literature 10 Textbook: Response: This line expresses Xúy Vân’s regret and sorrow for betraying Kim Nham in favor of the deceptive Trần Phương. Q3, page 128 of Literature 10 Textbook: Response: The characters introduce themselves humbly and with a sense of self-awareness, emphasizing their talents and unique qualities, such as 'talented,' 'a rare singer,' etc. Q4, page 129 of Literature 10 Textbook: Response: The image of a close-knit couple reflects Xúy Vân’s desire for marital happiness, which only deepens her sense of sorrow and regret. Q5, page 129 of Literature 10 Textbook: Response: This line highlights the character's realization of their solitude and regret, as well as their sense of betrayal and heartbreak. Q6, page 130 of Literature 10 Textbook: Response: This passage illustrates Xúy Vân's madness, as she speaks irrationally, unable to distinguish between truth and fiction, demonstrating her mental deterioration. Answering the Questions Q1, page 131 of Literature 10 Textbook: Response: Xúy Vân's madness stems from the loneliness she feels waiting for her husband, only to be tempted by the promises of Trần Phương, leading her to feign insanity in hopes of escaping her marriage to Kim Nham. Q2, page 131 of Literature 10 Textbook: Response: The dialogue from 'Nên tôi phải lụy đò' to 'Ai ơi giữ lấy đạo hằng chớ quên' clearly portrays Xúy Vân’s madness, her lament for her mistakes, and the pain of being ridiculed by society for her actions. Q3, page 131 of Literature 10 Textbook: Response: This passage represents the internal conflict of Xúy Vân, as she acknowledges her beauty and talent, yet feels the weight of her choices that have led to her current torment. Q4, page 131 of Literature 10 Textbook: Response: The wild chicken song illustrates Xúy Vân’s bitterness and frustration with her situation, trapped in a loveless marriage and the harsh judgment of society. Q5, page 131 of Literature 10 Textbook: Response: The introduction of Xúy Vân on stage, where she humbly presents herself and interacts with the audience, is typical of Chèo theatre, establishing a connection between the performer and the audience. Q6, page 131 of Literature 10 Textbook: Response: The seamless blend of speech and song throughout the performance is a hallmark of Chèo, where various musical styles enhance the emotional depth and complexity of the character’s state of mind. Q7, page 131 of Literature 10 Textbook: Response: Chèo reflects the cultural and societal values of rural Vietnamese life, such as belief in spirituality, close-knit community ties, and a deep connection to family. Q8, page 131 of Literature 10 Textbook: Response: Xúy Vân feigns insanity to hide her affair with Trần Phương and to escape her marriage to Kim Nham. Her actions, though morally questionable, reflect the limited options available to women in a patriarchal society, where they had little agency in choosing their path to happiness. Q9, page 131 of Literature 10 Textbook: Response: Chèo performances require more than just the script; they involve physical performance, choreography, and musical elements that enrich the original text and extend the length of the play on stage. Connecting Reading and Writing Q1, page 131 of Literature 10 Textbook: Response: In the play, Xúy Vân appears as a woman torn between guilt and despair, caught in a tragic cycle of unfulfilled desires. Her madness reflects the societal limitations placed on women in feudal Vietnam, where they had little control over their own destinies. The play serves as a poignant commentary on the struggle for self-determination and love in an oppressive society. Summary of 'Xúy Vân giả dại': The excerpt from 'Xúy Vân giả dại' tells the story of Xúy Vân’s feigned madness, an act she takes in an attempt to escape her marriage to Kim Nham and pursue a forbidden love with Trần Phương. Her songs, delivered through various traditional vocal techniques, convey her inner turmoil and the pain of her unfulfilled desires. Her dramatic cries and lamentations serve to underscore the tragic nature of her plight, reflecting the rigid constraints of feudal society that stifled women's autonomy.

The passage focuses on the event of Xúy Vân pretending to be insane in order to escape from Kim Nham. This excerpt is taken from the Vietnamese traditional opera 'Kim Nham', where Xúy Vân, in her attempt to flee from her husband Kim Nham and follow her lover Trần Phương, feigns madness. She continuously complains, acts irrationally, and expresses her supposed lunacy through various opera techniques such as distorted speech, sing-song tones, and reversed lyrics. Her goal is to convince others that she is truly insane, hoping that this will free her from her marriage and allow her to be with her lover.Before reading, the first question asks: In the age of modern entertainment, where countless media and forms of amusement abound, how would you feel about watching a traditional opera performance? The answer involves personal reflection and reasoning based on one's own experiences and preferences.The second question invites curiosity about the title 'Xúy Vân Pretending to Be Insane'. It urges students to reflect on the intrigue such a title might evoke, and suggests either seeking out the performance or reading the entire play 'Kim Nham'.While reading, the first question prompts reflection on how an actor might portray a specific line from the play, with guidance to imagine what physical actions would best complement the dialogue. The suggested response is that the actor should convey sorrow and remorse, perhaps by engaging in self-reproaching actions such as slapping their chest or pulling at their hair.The second question asks about the emotional state conveyed in a particular line. The detailed answer reveals that Xúy Vân’s words express guilt, sorrow, and regret for betraying her husband Kim Nham in favor of the deceitful Trần Phương.The third question directs attention to how the characters introduce themselves on stage, highlighting their humble and modest self-references, such as ‘I’ and mentioning their talents and personal traits, often in a self-deprecating or exaggerated manner.The fourth question concerns the symbolic meaning of the image of the close-knit couple, which reflects Xúy Vân’s longing for a happy family life, contrasting sharply with her regret and pain.The fifth question delves into Xúy Vân’s self-awareness, suggesting that her lines reflect a deep understanding of her situation—she feels isolated, remorseful, and betrayed.The sixth question examines the language of madness or feigned madness, emphasizing how Xúy Vân's dialogue becomes nonsensical, irrational, and disconnected from reality as she spirals into perceived insanity.The analysis continues with a set of questions focused on the motivations behind Xúy Vân’s actions, including why she feigns madness, what specific lines highlight her madness, and the contradictions within her emotions as she struggles with guilt and shame for betraying Kim Nham.The closing part reflects on the nature of traditional Vietnamese theater, observing how a short passage in text can stretch to a much longer performance when acted out, due to the addition of physicality, musicality, and visual expressions that enrich the theatrical experience.Finally, the conclusion provides a personal reflection on Xúy Vân’s emotional conflict, emphasizing her internal struggles and the broader social context of women in traditional Vietnamese society, who were often trapped by rigid societal expectations and limited autonomy, leading to tragic consequences when seeking personal happiness.

Category: Cheo is a traditional Vietnamese performing art form, popular among the masses, often associated with festivals. It is characterized by its use of rich, multi-layered language and figurative speech that combines storytelling with lyrical expression. The art of Cheo began in the 10th century during the reign of King Dinh Tien Hoang. Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh, is considered the birthplace of Cheo, where it was founded by Pham Thi Tran, a talented dancer and singer from the royal court who was appointed as a mentor in performing arts by the king. Famous Cheo plays include 'Luu Binh - Duong Le' and 'Quan Am Thi Kinh'. Origin: The play 'Kim Nham' tells the story of a scholar named Kim Nham. After marrying Xuy Van, he moved to the capital to continue his studies, leaving Xuy Van at home. There, she was seduced by Tran Phuong, who promised her a better life. In an effort to escape him, Xuy Van feigned madness. When this did not work, she allowed herself to be free, but when she went to find Tran Phuong, he turned against her, and from pretending to be insane, she actually became mad. The play highlights family relationships and the struggles within marriage, showing empathy for women trapped in a patriarchal society. Kim Nham is regarded as a masterpiece of Cheo, blending tragedy and humor with performances that showcase the talent of various artists over time. There are several variations of the Kim Nham legend, which differ slightly in details such as the background of Xuy Van's family and the reasons behind her feigned madness, as well as the tragic end she faces. Excerpt: 'Xuy Van Fakes Madness' - A peak moment in Cheo, not only in 'Kim Nham' but for the entire genre of traditional Cheo theatre in Vietnam. Several performers have cemented their reputations with this role, including Dieu Huong, Diem Loc, and Thuy Ngan. Structure of 'Xuy Van Fakes Madness': Part 1: From the beginning until the phrase 'Who knows who?': Xuy Van introduces herself to the audience. Part 2: From the next part until 'I will lament for a while': Xuy Van's tragic current situation, her desire for a harmonious and happy family life. Part 3: The remaining part: Xuy Van’s regret, sorrow, and self-blame. Thematic Value of 'Xuy Van Fakes Madness': The excerpt successfully portrays Xuy Van's madness through her words and actions. It also allows readers to visualize the difficult lives of women in a patriarchal society and the many injustices they faced. It reflects traditional views on marriage and family ethics. The excerpt evokes empathy for women who lived under patriarchal rule. Artistic Value of 'Xuy Van Fakes Madness': The piece exemplifies Cheo’s unique characteristics, including its language and audience interaction. The text is rich in various vocal styles, including unique forms such as 'le', 'via', 'hat qua giang', 'de', and 'dieu con ga rung'. It is filled with tragic beauty. Before Reading: Question 1 (Page 127, 10th Grade Literature): If someone offered you the chance to watch a traditional Cheo play, would you agree if you had the time? Question 2 (Page 127, 10th Grade Literature): Have you heard of this play but never had the chance to see it? While Reading: Suggested Answers for the Questions in the Text: 1. How do you think the actor will perform the dialogue? The actor will dance to the music, their movements will be sharp, and they may stagger. 2. What emotions does this dialogue express? Sadness and despair. The words shift from an angry cry to tears of regret. 3. Pay attention to how the character introduces themselves to the audience in Cheo. The character introduces their background, origin, and personality in a brief yet detailed manner. 4. What is the significance of the image of a close-knit couple in this scene? It reflects Xuy Van's simple and sincere hope for a peaceful and harmonious family life, a dream for the future. 5. Notice the character's awareness of their own situation. The dialogue expresses the sorrow of a young woman who has lost love and the longing for a happiness that is out of reach. 6. Pay attention to the language used by the 'mad' character. The surreal and illogical nature of the objects mentioned highlights Xuy Van's mental turmoil: a chicken egg laying a crow, or trees growing in the water. After Reading: Main Ideas The text reveals Xuy Van’s internal struggle, expressed through nonsensical lines that convey her broken state. Despite the madness, there is a genuine sadness beneath the surface. The piece shows how Xuy Van yearns for true love but is trapped by the harsh realities of her life. Suggested Answer for After Reading Question: Question 1 (Page 131, 10th Grade Literature): After marrying Kim Nham, Xuy Van is left alone while he pursues his studies, and she is subjected to the unwanted advances of Tran Phuong, eventually pretending to be mad to escape her situation. Question 2 (Page 131, 10th Grade Literature): The lines where Xuy Van sings backwards, from 'The rice drum, who can play it well?' to 'riding a chicken to fight wars', are the most clear expression of her 'mad' language. The surreal imagery reflects her chaotic internal state, lost in confusion, unable to find her way. Question 3 (Page 131, 10th Grade Literature): In the beginning, Xuy Van is introduced with wild gestures and confusing songs that reflect her internal conflict. The song 'I am a boat, the boat never has a good trip' captures her feelings of waiting and loss. In other songs, Xuy Van expresses how her marriage traps her and her longing for a new life of freedom. Question 4 (Page 131, 10th Grade Literature): The comparison between the rooster and the peacock highlights the societal injustice Xuy Van faces, trapped in an unfulfilled marriage. Question 5 (Page 131, 10th Grade Literature): The character's self-introduction and interactions with the audience make the play more engaging and personal. Question 6 (Page 131, 10th Grade Literature): The song lyrics express the feelings of loss and longing, showcasing the variety and emotion in Cheo's use of rhythm and rhyme. Final Thoughts: Xuy Van's journey embodies the universal human desire for love, freedom, and happiness amidst societal constraints.

Preparing the Lesson Plan for 'Xuý Vân Pretending to Be Mad'

Question 1 (page 127 of the 10th-grade Literature textbook, Volume 1)

Prompt: With the explosion of countless audio-visual media and exciting entertainment activities, how would you feel if someone asked you to spend a little time watching a traditional Vietnamese opera performance?

Answer

If someone suggested I take some time to watch a traditional Vietnamese opera, I would be quite interested as it is a form of art with a rich history.

Question 2 (page 127 of the 10th-grade Literature textbook, Volume 1)

Prompt: Would you be curious about the name 'Xuý Vân Pretending to Be Mad'? How would you take advantage of your current situation to watch this play or the entire performance of 'Kim Nham'?

Answer

I would indeed be curious to learn more about the play 'Xuý Vân Pretending to Be Mad.'

Understanding the play 'Xuý Vân Pretending to Be Mad'

Answer the questions in the middle of the play:

Question 1 (page 127 of the 10th-grade Literature textbook, Volume 1)

Prompt: Imagine how the actor would perform the dialogue in this scene. What corresponding actions would they take?

Answer

Imagining the scene: the actor would likely express a sorrowful facial expression, striking themselves to show regret and self-blame.

Question 2 (page 128 of the 10th-grade Literature textbook, Volume 1)

Prompt: What mental state of the character is expressed in this dialogue?

Answer

This reflects a sense of shame and self-reproach for abandoning Kim Nham in favor of the flirtatious Trần Phương.

Question 3 (page 128 of the 10th-grade Literature textbook, Volume 1)

Prompt: Pay attention to how the character introduces themselves to the audience in the opera.

Answer

The character introduces themselves as: 'I, Xuý Vân, the one who betrayed Kim Nham, loves Trần Phương, of unmatched talent, a beautiful singer, yet foolish.'

Question 4 (page 129 of the 10th-grade Literature textbook, Volume 1)

Prompt: What is the significance of the image of the couple being close together in this scene?

Answer

It suggests Xuý Vân’s longing for a happy married life, although it is now impossible to achieve.

Question 5 (page 129 of the 10th-grade Literature textbook, Volume 1)

Prompt: Notice the character’s self-awareness. What does it tell you about their understanding of their own situation?

Answer

The character, Xuý Vân, is aware of her faults, feeling both embarrassed and remorseful, while also sorrowful about her life.

Question 6 (page 130 of the 10th-grade Literature textbook, Volume 1)

Prompt: Pay attention to the language and unusual connections made by a mad or feigned-mad person.

Answer

Due to the sweet words of Trần Phương, Xuý Vân pretends to be mad to make Kim Nham leave her. After gaining freedom, Trần Phương no longer cares about her, causing her to truly go mad. The language in this scene becomes harder to understand, showing that Xuý Vân may be losing her sanity.

Answer the final question:

Question 1 (page 131 of the 10th-grade Literature textbook, Volume 1)

Prompt: What is the reason behind Xuý Vân’s act of pretending to be mad?

Answer

Xuý Vân, waiting for her husband Kim Nham to focus on his studies while living a lonely married life, longs for a passionate love. Upon meeting the charming Trần Phương, she is swayed by his words and pretends to be mad to escape Kim Nham and pursue happiness with Trần Phương.

Question 2 (page 131 of the 10th-grade Literature textbook, Volume 1)

Prompt: Which dialogue from 'Xuý Vân Pretending to Be Mad' clearly demonstrates the character’s 'mad language'? Why do you identify it as such?

Answer

Dialogue: 'I must suffer by the boat… / … Oh, hold on to the righteous path and do not forget.' This is the passage where Xuý Vân reveals her feelings of self-pity, regret, and shame for her actions.

Question 3 (page 131 of the 10th-grade Literature textbook, Volume 1)

Prompt: Analyze one dialogue excerpt to reveal the inner conflict and emotional turmoil within Xuý Vân.

Answer

In her self-introduction, Xuý Vân’s internal conflict is clearly revealed. She is a beautiful, talented woman who betrayed her husband to follow her heart. Sadly, her heart led her to Trần Phương, a charming yet unworthy man. Her loneliness in her marriage led to this mistake. Now, she is burdened with shame, not only for herself but for her family, and is the subject of gossip. In the end, she is left with no choice but to pretend to be mad to escape her shame.

Question 4 (page 131 of the 10th-grade Literature textbook, Volume 1)

Prompt: What do the 'wild chicken' styled lyrics in the play reveal about Xuý Vân’s life and desires?

Answer

The lyrics reflect Xuý Vân’s frustration and sorrow, living in disgrace. Her actions have not only affected her reputation but also her family’s. However, they also represent her deep longing for a happy marriage, where she is not left alone in her own home.

Question 5 (page 131 of the 10th-grade Literature textbook, Volume 1)

Prompt: What can be learned about traditional Vietnamese opera through Xuý Vân’s self-introduction? Consider the use of names and audience interaction.

Answer

In traditional Vietnamese opera, the character introduces themselves and speaks directly to the audience, engaging them through rhetorical questions and personal stories. This breaks the fourth wall, creating a deeper connection between the performer and the audience.

Question 6 (page 131 of the 10th-grade Literature textbook, Volume 1)

Prompt: What are some characteristics of traditional Vietnamese opera language in the excerpt? Consider the form and folk influences.

Answer

Characteristics:

• Blending of speaking and singing.
• Use of folk poetry and traditional songs.
• Employment of words with multiple meanings.
• Imagery-laden dialogues.
• Rich in rhythm and melody.

Question 7 (page 131 of the 10th-grade Literature textbook, Volume 1)

Prompt: What can we learn about the cultural life of rural Vietnam through the play 'Xuý Vân Pretending to Be Mad'?

Answer

The rural cultural life in Vietnam is portrayed as communal, where personal matters often become public concerns. Additionally, beliefs in spirits and deities, like the worship of the Moon Lady, are deeply ingrained in their daily lives.

Question 8 (page 131 of the 10th-grade Literature textbook, Volume 1)

Prompt: Why does Xuý Vân pretend to be mad? Can you justify her actions?

Answer

Xuý Vân pretends to be mad in order to force Kim Nham to abandon her so that she can be with Trần Phương, the man she desires. In her lonely marriage, she longed for love and happiness. When she met Trần Phương, it was like a breath of fresh air, and she made the decision to pretend madness. While we can empathize with her actions, it is still an immoral decision.

Question 9 (page 131 of the 10th-grade Literature textbook, Volume 1)

Prompt: The play 'Xuý Vân Pretending to Be Mad' can be read in about 3 minutes, but on stage it takes nearly 15 minutes. What does this tell you about the art of Vietnamese opera? (Hint: Consider the role of the plot, the importance of acting, singing, dancing, and other expressive forms.)

Answer

Vietnamese opera requires deep immersion, as the performer must embody the character’s emotions fully. During the performance, additional content can be included to enrich the presentation, but it should not detract from the essence of the original text.

Connecting Reading and Writing

Write a paragraph (about 150 words) expressing your thoughts on Xuý Vân’s emotions as depicted in 'Xuý Vân Pretending to Be Mad'.

Answer

Through the play 'Xuý Vân Pretending to Be Mad', I feel both sympathy and frustration with the character. She is a woman who is both guilty and tragic. Lost and lonely in her marriage, Xuý Vân longs for passionate love and happiness. When she meets Trần Phương, it fills the void she’s been feeling. In a desperate attempt to escape her unhappy marriage, she pretends to be mad, hoping Kim Nham will leave her. Sadly, Trần Phương turns out to be unworthy of her love, and she ends up heartbroken. Nevertheless, we can admire Xuý Vân’s courage in pursuing love in a time when women were expected to conform to societal norms. Ultimately, her fate is tragic, and her pretend madness becomes real, reflecting the harshness of her circumstances.