Top 6 Best Essays on "Thúy Kiều's Gratitude and Revenge" for 9th Grade

I. Author
1. Biography
- Nguyễn Du (1765 – 1820), whose courtesy name was Tố Như and pen name Thanh Hiên.
- Nguyễn Du's life was full of ups and downs, but these struggles gave him a rich life experience and a deep soul.
2. Literary Career:
- His works are highly regarded both in classical Chinese and Nôm script.
- His deep humanitarian spirit.
- His works' content and artistic values reached their peak.

II. The Work
1. General Overview
a. The context of the excerpt
- This excerpt is at the end of the second part (“Family Crisis and Wandering”).
- Having endured many hardships, Kiều reached a point of despair, thinking that her fate was sealed: “Knowing I can't escape heaven's will – I’ll at least try to keep my face as it was.” While Kiều felt lost and hopeless, Từ Hải appeared. His arrival was a turning point in her life, offering her a way out of her dire situation. Từ Hải, a hero of great strength, not only saved her from a brothel but also elevated her to the status of a noblewoman, and later even a judge.
- In the segment “Thúy Kiều's Gratitude and Revenge,” Kiều repays those who helped her and punishes those who wronged her. Through Nguyễn Du's sharp writing, we see Kiều’s noble character, as well as the common people's desire for justice: the oppressed rising up to right the wrongs.
b. Structure: 2 parts
- The first twelve lines: Thúy Kiều shows gratitude.
- The remaining twenty-two lines: Thúy Kiều takes revenge.
2. Detailed Analysis
a. Thúy Kiều’s Gratitude
– The scene of gratitude is conducted formally, as Thúy Kiều invites Thúc Sinh to meet and reminisce about their past.
- Although Kiều feels a little bitterness about her time serving in Hoạn Thư’s household, she understands that Thúc Sinh was truly devoted to her.
- The phrases “A debt of gratitude as deep as a mountain,” “Old friend,” and “Someone from the past” reflect Kiều’s respect for these bonds, showing that, despite her suffering, she values her connection with him.
– Thúy Kiều gives Thúc Sinh rich gifts, reinforcing her steadfast loyalty. Despite her wealth, she does not forget the past.
b. Thúy Kiều’s Revenge
– Thúy Kiều remains angry at Hoạn Thư and uses harsh words to describe her.
- After successfully defeating Hoạn Thư in a jealousy dispute, Kiều saw Thúc Sinh bow to her, and Hoạn Thư, feeling triumphant, rejoices at her victory.
- Thúy Kiều patiently advises Hoạn Thư to be more careful with her words, not to escalate the tension.
- Hoạn Thư, once deceitful, now fears for her safety as Kiều has surrounded her with swords and soldiers. She acknowledges her wrongdoings and pleads for mercy, using clever words to justify her actions.
- Hoạn Thư's apology contains valid reasons, reflecting her jealousy and her overreaction to a situation she felt threatened by. While her actions were wrong, they can be forgiven.
c. Conclusion of Gratitude and Revenge
- The ending of the gratitude and revenge scene is surprising. Initially, it seems Kiều would punish Hoạn Thư for her past cruelty, but Hoạn Thư’s sincere apology moves Kiều, and she decides to forgive her, surprising the reader.
– This excerpt shows that Thúy Kiều is not only talented and beautiful but also has a generous heart, distinguishing right from wrong and showing forgiveness.
d. Thematic Significance
- The excerpt highlights Thúy Kiều’s noble heart, showcasing her sense of justice and the common people’s belief in righteous retribution.
e. Artistic Values
- The excerpt reveals Nguyễn Du’s skill in creating characters through dialogue.
- Through Thúy Kiều’s conversations with Thúc Sinh and Hoạn Thư, we see her natural expression of gratitude and pain, with refined language used for Thúc Sinh, while sharp and biting words are used for Hoạn Thư.
- Hoạn Thư's defense highlights her cleverness and manipulative nature.

1. Question 1, page 108, Textbook of Literature 9, Volume 1

The first twelve lines describe Thúy Kiều’s gratitude to Thúc Sinh.

From Kiều’s words to Thúc Sinh, we see that she is someone who values relationships deeply. Calling him “the old friend” shows her respect, and she is truly grateful for his help. No amount of wealth could express her gratitude enough.
In her dialogue with Thúc Sinh, Kiều also recalls the harm Hoạn Thư did to her. The formal tone used with Thúc Sinh reflects her respect, while her sharp words to Hoạn Thư show her anger and sense of justice.

2. Question 2, page 108, Textbook of Literature 9, Volume 1

Thúy Kiều’s initial words to Hoạn Thư carry a sarcastic tone, highlighting her determination for revenge.

3. Question 3, page 108, Textbook of Literature 9, Volume 1

Hoạn Thư, despite her fear, responds sweetly and tries to justify her actions, recognizing their shared womanhood and pleading for forgiveness.
Her reasoning appeals to Kiều’s sense of empathy, making Kiều hesitant to judge her harshly.

4. Question 4, page 108, Textbook of Literature 9, Volume 1

Thúy Kiều’s decision to forgive Hoạn Thư is a wise choice because:

She is a compassionate and open-hearted person.
It aligns with her character.
Hoạn Thư’s sincere words had an impact on her.

5. Question 5, page 108, Textbook of Literature 9, Volume 1

Analysis of Thúy Kiều’s character: She is generous, compassionate, and deeply loyal. She repays those who help her and forgives those who wrong her, showing she is not petty or vengeful.
Analysis of Hoạn Thư’s character: Hoạn Thư is cunning and manipulative, using sweet words to try to absolve herself, even in a difficult situation.

Exercise

The diverse yet consistent traits of Thúy Kiều and Hoạn Thư are:

Thúy Kiều: Her feelings are clear-cut. She repays kindness and punishes betrayal. She is both gentle and firm. However, after hearing Hoạn Thư’s heartfelt apology, she forgives her, showing her capacity for empathy and generosity.
Hoạn Thư: Despite her fear, she uses deceitful logic to manipulate Kiều, exploiting her compassion to absolve herself.

Structure:

- Part 1 (the first twelve lines): Thúy Kiều expresses her gratitude to Thúc Sinh.

- Part 2 (the remaining twenty-two lines): Thúy Kiều seeks revenge on Hoạn Thư.

Lesson Instructions

Question 1 (Page 108, Vietnamese Literature 9, Volume 1)

Kiều’s words to Thúc Sinh reveal her sense of honor and clarity in all matters.

+ She expresses her gratitude to Thúc Sinh for rescuing her from the brothel: with hundreds of rolls of silk and thousands of pounds of silver.

+ While expressing her gratitude, Kiều mentions Hoạn Thư because all the suffering she endured was caused by Hoạn Thư.

+ She describes Hoạn Thư as a wicked, cunning person who will eventually face punishment (a thief meets an old woman).

- The language used for Thúc Sinh is formal, with Chinese-Vietnamese words: honor, loyalty, old friend, thanks.

+ In contrast, when speaking of Hoạn Thư, the language is more casual, with folk idioms: wicked, thief of the old woman, ants in the bowl.

→ The act of punishment, from the perspective of the people, is expressed in the everyday language of the common folk.

Question 2 (Page 108, Vietnamese Literature 9, Volume 1)

Kiều's tone in the passage expressing revenge is full of irony.

+ Hoạn Thư is brought in like a criminal, yet Kiều still greets her and uses the old form of address, “young lady,” even though their positions have completely changed.

+ After the irony, Kiều openly condemns Hoạn Thư as an evil, malicious woman, a rarity among women (How many women have such hands—Old times had many faces, but this time lost its courage).

- The repeated use of metonymy (hands, faces, courage) emphasizes Hoạn Thư’s terrible nature.

+ Kiều states the law of karma: evil deeds will be repaid with punishment.

→ Kiều decisively punishes Hoạn Thư, clearly and without hesitation.

Question 3 (Page 108, Vietnamese Literature 9, Volume 1)

The attitude of both Kiều and Hoạn Thư is one of great fear and panic.

+ Hoạn Thư is so frightened that she feels like her soul is leaving her body.

+ Using her wisdom, Kiều regains her composure and begins to argue her case.

- The sequence of reasoning:

+ First, Hoạn Thư recognizes her status as a woman, and in this, she shares common struggles with Thúy Kiều.

+ Hoạn Thư argues that jealousy is a natural emotion that cannot be avoided.

+ She recalls how she showed leniency to Kiều: allowing her to write scriptures in the attic, and not capturing her when she fled.

+ Hoạn Thư then feigns extreme sorrow and pleads for Kiều’s mercy.

- With clever words and manipulative tactics, Hoạn Thư manages to sway Kiều, turning her from a desire for punishment to forgiveness.

Question 4 (Page 108, Vietnamese Literature 9, Volume 1)

Kiều pardons Hoạn Thư because:

- Hoạn Thư's reasoning in seeking forgiveness is intelligent.

+ Jealousy is a common occurrence, and in this situation, a husband cannot act differently.

- Hoạn Thư admits her faults.

- She asks for mercy with the phrase, "may the mercy of the vast ocean prevail," warning Kiều that not forgiving her would make her appear petty and stubborn.

- This is the intention of the author, Nguyễn Du, to prevent Kiều from exacting cruel punishment as in the stories of Thanh Tâm Tài Nhân, and instead show her magnanimity and forgiveness.

Question 5 (Page 109, Vietnamese Literature 9, Volume 1)

Thúy Kiều values gratitude: rewarding those who help her and ensuring that those who wrong her face proper consequences.

+ Even though Thúc Sinh could not protect Kiều, he still remembers and repays her kindness.

+ With Hoạn Thư, Kiều initially wanted to punish her, but when faced with Hoạn Thư's clever plea for mercy, Kiều forgave her.

- Kiều’s magnanimity and unwillingness to hold grudges is what makes someone like Hoạn Thư feel truly humbled and defeated.

- Hoạn Thư is evil and malicious, yet clever and manipulative.

+ Hoạn Thư's nature is cruel and cunning: she once tormented Kiều to the point of pain and humiliation.

+ She is the one who "appears sweet and kind on the outside, but within is deceitful, like a murderer without a knife."

Now, she still uses her sly, deceptive tactics to convince Kiều to show mercy.

Practice

- Thúy Kiều's character:

+ She is decisive in love and hate, calm yet firm when necessary: she repays Thúc Sinh for his kindness, but punishes Hoạn Thư, who was once cruel to her.

+ Her actions are based on moral principles: she forgives Hoạn Thư due to her logical reasoning.

- Hoạn Thư's character:

+ Hoạn Thư is consistently clever, full of schemes and tactics.

+ Despite trembling before Kiều’s accusations, Hoạn Thư still tries to justify herself to escape punishment.

+ As for personal feelings, she acknowledges Kiều’s talents, but still sees jealousy as a natural part of being a wife sharing a husband.

Answer to Question 1 (Page 108, Literature 9, Volume 1):

a. Based on Kiều’s words to Thúc Sinh, what kind of person do you think Kiều is?

b. Why does Kiều mention Hoạn Thư when expressing her gratitude to Thúc Sinh? What differences can you observe in Kiều’s language when addressing Thúc Sinh versus when she speaks about Hoạn Thư?

Detailed Explanation:

a.

- Thúc Sinh, when invited with a sword, was described as “His face like darkened ash, his body trembling.” His fear was due to multiple reasons: the sight of the soldiers with shining weapons and witnessing how Kiều had punished those who had caused her suffering. Thúc Sinh could never have imagined receiving such a generous reward, “a hundred rolls of brocade and a thousand pounds of silver,” since he had done little for Kiều. Even when seeing his wife’s abuse of Kiều, he did nothing to defend her.

So why does Kiều reward him so richly? Understanding this helps us understand Kiều better and reveals the artistry of Nguyễn Du in shaping her character. Kiều’s personality remains consistent throughout the story—whether she sacrifices her love for her sister Thúy Vân, faces hardship alone in the cold tower, or now has the chance to repay kindness or seek revenge. Kiều is always portrayed as someone deeply loyal and emotional:

She says: “The weight of love and friendship is immense,

Do you remember the old friend from Lâm Tri?

Even Sâm Thương could not fulfill the duty of loyalty,

Who would dare betray the feelings of an old friend?

A hundred rolls of brocade, a thousand pounds of silver,

Can it truly repay gratitude…”.

Kiều’s logic is clear: this is not just repayment of kindness but a return of the affection Thúc Sinh once showed her. Kiều’s actions are not motivated by reason but by her deep feelings. This might seem counterintuitive, but it showcases the literary brilliance of Nguyễn Du—Kiều is not a character created by a predefined formula but one that feels real, relatable, and consistent in her nature. This is further evident in the subsequent scenes.

b.

- When speaking to Thúc Sinh, Kiều uses many Sino-Vietnamese terms such as “meaning,” “loyalty,” “betrayal,” and “old friend,” along with allusions to the historical tale of Sâm Thương. This formal language suits the scholarly Thúc Sinh and conveys Kiều’s respectful and sincere gratitude.

- In contrast, when speaking about Hoạn Thư, Kiều adopts a more colloquial tone with expressions like “wicked demon,” “thieving old woman,” etc., which is more suited to the context and her conversational aim.

Answer to Question 2 (Page 108, Literature 9, Volume 1):

- What is the tone of Kiều’s first words to Hoạn Thư?

- How does Kiều’s tone reflect her attitude?

Detailed Explanation:

- The power dynamic between the two women has completely reversed. Previously, when Hoạn Thư controlled the situation, Kiều was not only physically abused but also humiliated in ways unique to Hoạn Thư. Kiều’s emotional pain was even greater than the physical suffering she endured. However, now Kiều holds all the power. A simple gesture from her could destroy Hoạn Thư.

How does Kiều begin her “revenge”?

Immediately, she greets Hoạn Thư: “So, the young lady has arrived!”

“How many women have hands like these,

How many faces, and how many hearts in this world?”

“Beauty is easily gained,

The more cruel, the more unjust.”

- Nguyễn Du’s narrative skill is exceptional. The once graceful and modest Kiều, who “blushed and hid among the flowers,” is now standing before her enemy, almost transformed. If Kiều had immediately ordered Hoạn Thư’s punishment, there would be little to discuss. But Kiều relishes the moment, enjoying the power of being in control, and uses her words to metaphorically “tear” into Hoạn Thư, just as Hoạn Thư once did to her. With a mocking tone, Kiều refers to Hoạn Thư as “young lady” and warns her about the consequences of cruelty (“The more cruel, the more unjust”). Kiều is confident in her victory and even willing to engage in a war of words!

- After hearing Hoạn Thư’s “justifications,” Kiều softens and decides to release her. She even praises her: “So clever, your words are well-spoken,” and thinks to herself, “It would be shameful to be petty.”

This conclusion may surprise readers, but it fits the logic of the story. The “gratitude” scene with Thúc Sinh shows that, no matter what, Kiều is a woman full of emotions and deep connections. Such a person would find it hard to remain harsh against someone as cunning and devious as Hoạn Thư.

Answer to Question 3 (Page 108, Literature 9, Volume 1):

How does Hoạn Thư respond to Kiều’s attitude?

Detailed Explanation:

- Hoạn Thư lives up to her reputation for being “smooth-talking but ruthless in action”:

Hoạn Thư’s soul lost, her spirit shaken

She bows her head and pleads for mercy.

She says: “I am just a woman,”

Question 1 - Page 108 Textbook: The first twelve lines describe the scene where Thúy Kiều repays her debt of gratitude (to return the favor).

a. From Kiều’s words to Thúc Sinh, what kind of person do you think Kiều is?

b. Why does Kiều mention Hoạn Thư when expressing her gratitude to Thúc Sinh? How does her language differ when speaking to Thúc Sinh versus when she talks about Hoạn Thư? What is the reason for these differences in tone?

Answer:

- Thúc Sinh was invited to the military camp: A sword was used to summon him. On the throne of the great general Từ Hải, Thúy Kiều sat majestically to administer justice. In front of large swords and long spears, Thúc Sinh was terrified and his face lost all color (his face pale as if covered with soot), and his legs trembled (his body seemed to be shaking). This pitiable image perfectly aligns with Thúc Sinh’s weak and submissive personality.

- Kiều’s words to Thúc Sinh express her deep and respectful gratitude.

+ Thúy Kiều was redeemed from a brothel in Lâm Tri, escaping a life of disgrace, and then spent peaceful days with Thúc Sinh. It was a deep, almost unpayable debt of gratitude she felt for him.

+ When speaking to Thúc Sinh, Kiều uses classical Chinese terms like “meaning,” “to follow,” “old friend,” “thank,” and allusions like “Sâm Thương.” This formal tone fits Thúc Sinh’s scholar status while conveying Kiều’s sincere respect.

- When mentioning Hoạn Thư in her conversation with Thúc Sinh, Kiều’s words reveal the deep emotional wound that Hoạn Thư caused her, one that still stings. When she speaks of Hoạn Thư, her language becomes simple and colloquial. She uses familiar idioms like “an old thief meeting a grandmother” and “ants crawling on the edge of a bowl,” employing plain Vietnamese words. This reflects how the common people perceive justice and punishment.

Question 2 - Page 108 Textbook: The remaining verses describe Thúy Kiều seeking revenge.

- What tone does Kiều adopt when she first speaks to Hoạn Thư?

- What is Kiều’s attitude toward Hoạn Thư as reflected in her tone?

Answer:

- Kiều’s actions and words clearly express a mocking attitude toward Hoạn Thư. She still addresses her with a formal “hello,” using “Miss” repeatedly. This change in the way she addresses Hoạn Thư is a sharp jab at the noble Hoạn family.

- Kiều’s words are filled with sarcasm and disdain, each line loaded with repetition and emphasis: “easy to find, easy to get, many hands, many faces, many hearts from the past and present,” making the tone harsher and more biting. This approach suits Hoạn Thư perfectly, who is known for her deceptive nature: “Her smile is smooth and gentle, but inside, she’s as poisonous as a knife.”

Kiều’s mocking tone indicates her determination to punish Hoạn Thư in accordance with the popular belief: “The deeper the plot, the deeper the meaning behind it.”

At first, Hoạn Thư’s spirit falters, but she quickly gathers herself and attempts to plead her case. This reveals her cunning nature and ability to navigate tricky situations.

Question 3 - Page 108 Textbook:

How did Hoạn Thư respond to Kiều’s attitude? What are her arguments for defending herself?

Answer:

- When Kiều meets Hoạn Thư again, all the resentment from the past rushes back. Kiều sarcastically addresses her, reminding her of the years since the night of the jealous confrontation. Now, in a victorious position, Kiều says with a sharp tone:

- “At a glance, she already admits defeat

Miss, you’ve come here today!”

- “Women often have many hands

In the past, many faces, in the present, many hearts

Easy ways are the lot of beauty

The more cruel, the more injustice there is”

The tone becomes harsh and biting. Words like “many hands” and “many hearts” feel like sharp needles:

In response, Hoạn Thư’s spirit falters, but she remains composed enough to bow low and beg for mercy, attempting to defend herself.

Kiều warns Hoạn Thư about the torment she has caused her: “The more cruel you are, the more injustice there will be.” Standing at the execution ground, surrounded by swords and executioners, Hoạn Thư is terrified. She knows her fate is sealed but tries to plead for forgiveness, using clever, discreet words that only those in the know could understand:

“When I stepped back to write the scriptures

And when I closed the door, I left my feelings behind.”

Hoạn Thư tries to justify her actions, reminding Kiều of the “kindness” she had shown in the past: letting Kiều write scriptures at Quan Âm Temple instead of forcing her to serve as a maid, and turning a blind eye when Kiều ran away with the gold bell and silver bell.

Despite her previous cruelty, Hoạn Thư admits her wrongdoing and pleads for Kiều’s mercy:

“I have caused trouble with my own heart

But can you forgive me with your vast mercy?”

Hoạn Thư’s defense is both reasonable and sincere. Kiều acknowledges Hoạn Thư’s cleverness and wisdom in speaking: “Clever to the point of always speaking wisely.” Kiều, not one to be petty, pardons Hoạn Thư:

“Once the punishment has been decided, it should be carried out,”

This turn of events comes as a surprise to many. By sparing Hoạn Thư, Kiều shows immense nobility.

- Hoạn Thư’s argument relies on the common emotions of women: jealousy, which she justifies as a natural feeling. This logic blurs the line between Kiều and Hoạn Thư, making them seem like two women sharing the same struggles. If Hoạn Thư is guilty, it is only because of the inherent nature of women in a polygamous society.

+ Hoạn Thư then recalls how she allowed Kiều to leave and write scriptures, and how she forgave Kiều when she escaped with precious items.

+ Ultimately, Hoạn Thư takes full responsibility for her actions and hopes Kiều’s generous heart will spare her: “Can you forgive me with your vast mercy?”

- Kiều admits that Hoạn Thư’s reasoning is clever and effective. Hoạn Thư’s words lead Kiều to a difficult decision: “If I forgive her, will I be seen as a petty person?” Yet, Kiều’s compassion wins out: “Once the punishment has been decided, it should be carried out.”

- Through Hoạn Thư’s defense, we see how deeply cunning and manipulative she can be. However, the fact that she is forgiven shows Kiều’s profound sense of mercy. This episode in the story exemplifies Kiều’s selflessness and compassion.

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