Top 6 Best Essays Proving 'The Great Proclamation of the Bình Ngô' as a Declaration of Independence of the Nation (Literature 10)

If the poem 'Nam quốc sơn hà' by Lý Thường Kiệt, echoing along the Như Nguyệt River, is considered the first declaration of independence of Vietnam, then Nguyễn Trãi's 'Bình Ngô đại cáo' is the second. It is recognized as a declaration of independence because Nguyễn Trãi affirmed the nation's territorial sovereignty and independence. 'Bình Ngô đại cáo' echoes as an everlasting anthem, praising a glorious victory and asserting the independence and sovereignty of our nation. With its bold and resolute tone, it echoes like a strong declaration: 'The land of Vietnam belongs to the people of Vietnam'. From the start, Nguyễn Trãi proudly declared: 'Our Đại Việt has long been known for its cultural foundation'. This declaration was a continuation of Lý Thường Kiệt's assertion: 'The mountains and rivers of Nam belong to the king of the South'. However, Nguyễn Trãi’s affirmation of sovereignty differs from that of Lý Thường Kiệt; while Lý Thường Kiệt believed sovereignty was determined by heaven, Nguyễn Trãi attributed it to human judgment. This difference in thought reflects the evolution of national philosophy over time. Nguyễn Trãi further emphasized that the nation's independence was won through immense sacrifice, not granted by heaven, but achieved through the dedication of many generations. 'The independence of Vietnam, the sovereignty of Vietnam, were earned through the sacrifices of the people over thousands of years,' he declared. 'Although Vietnam is small, its will and strength are not.' This determination has been a source of strength throughout history. The declaration of independence and sovereignty of Vietnam was won through unity, customs, and collective effort. Nguyễn Trãi’s proclamation emphasizes this unity and resilience. 'Bình Ngô đại cáo' was thus a powerful declaration of independence, asserting national sovereignty and prosperity for the country.

The 'Bình Ngô Đại Cáo' is not just a strong piece of argumentative literature that denounces the enemy's crimes and summarizes the nation's resistance against the Ming forces; it is also a declaration of independence. This proclamation is considered the second declaration of independence for the Vietnamese people, following 'Nam quốc sơn hà' and preceding Hồ Chí Minh's Declaration of Independence. After the first two verses affirming moral values, Nguyễn Trãi skillfully argued for the nation's sovereignty, which is the most prominent feature of this declaration of independence in the work. He declared that 'Our Đại Việt has long been known for its cultural foundation'—this statement serves as an undeniable claim of Vietnam's historical sovereignty and civilization. By using comparison, Nguyễn Trãi showed the parallel existence of both nations. The use of 'Đế' (Emperor) instead of 'Vương' (King) emphasized the equality and independence of Vietnam, signifying a major shift in national consciousness from previous times. This was a significant step beyond the first declaration of independence made by Lý Thường Kiệt. Nguyễn Trãi added three new elements to assert Vietnam’s independence, focusing on culture, traditions, and history, all of which could not be easily claimed by anyone else. Furthermore, the final verses of the proclamation celebrate the victory and the dawn of a new era, emphasizing the everlasting peace and prosperity that would follow. The combination of argumentative strength and artistic techniques firmly establishes the sovereignty of Vietnam in a profound and indomitable way.

Our country, Vietnam, has a long history filled with ups and downs, and naturally, we must have our declarations of independence. Nguyễn Trãi’s 'Đại cáo Bình Ngô' is considered the second declaration of independence, following 'Nam quốc sơn hà' by Lý Thường Kiệt, and preceding Hồ Chí Minh’s 'Declaration of Independence' in 1945. Nguyễn Trãi was a man of great intellect and skill, who served as an official during the Hồ dynasty and later participated in the Lam Sơn uprising led by King Lê Lợi. He is recognized as a key figure in Vietnamese literature and thought, earning the title of a cultural hero. In 1428, after the victory against the Ming invaders, Nguyễn Trãi was ordered by King Lê Lợi to write the 'Đại cáo Bình Ngô'.

But why is this considered a declaration of independence? What exactly qualifies as such a document? A declaration of independence is usually written after a victorious war. For example, 'Nam quốc sơn hà' was written during the war against the Song Dynasty, and Hồ Chí Minh’s declaration came after Vietnam’s victory over French colonial forces in 1945. Similarly, 'Đại cáo Bình Ngô' was written after the victory over the Ming. A true declaration includes three elements: the assertion of national identity, the proclamation of victory, and the call for peace. It’s clear from the content that the 'Đại cáo Bình Ngô' fits all three criteria. The most evident aspect of a declaration of independence can be seen in the opening of this work.

From the very first lines, Nguyễn Trãi affirms the undeniable existence of the Vietnamese nation, emphasizing its ancient history with terms like 'from before' and 'long-standing'. He goes on to highlight the clear demarcation of borders between the two nations, emphasizing their distinct cultures and traditions. Nguyễn Trãi’s enumeration of the Vietnamese dynasties—'Triệu, Đinh, Lý, Trần'—alongside the Chinese dynasties—'Hán, Đường, Tống, Nguyên'—underlines the equality of Vietnam despite its smaller size. The use of the word 'Emperor' (Đế) instead of 'King' (Vương) conveys Vietnam’s equal status with China. This powerful literary device emphasizes the mutual recognition between the two nations. The poem also reflects national pride, asserting that 'heroes exist in every generation'. Nguyễn Trãi further strengthens his argument by listing the victories over enemy leaders such as 'Lưu Cung', 'Triệu Tiết', and others, highlighting the dominance of Vietnam and its unwavering sovereignty. The final lines of the poem reiterate the irrefutable evidence of the nation’s independence, leaving no room for dispute.

In conclusion, 'Đại cáo Bình Ngô' is an upgraded version of 'Nam quốc sơn hà', providing a more detailed and refined declaration of independence. While Lý Thường Kiệt’s poem made a brief but powerful statement, Nguyễn Trãi’s work offers a much more comprehensive and convincing argument, making the case for Vietnam’s sovereignty clear and undeniable. Unlike Lý Thường Kiệt, who relied on the abstract concept of 'heavenly decree', Nguyễn Trãi bolsters his argument with concrete historical evidence, ensuring the credibility and permanence of Vietnam’s independence. 'Đại cáo Bình Ngô' transforms a simple threat into a robust proclamation of independence, making it the second, and arguably more definitive, declaration of Vietnamese sovereignty.

The literary critic Hoai Thanh once stated, "Each page of literature reflects the era it was born in." Masterpieces of literature do not only carry literary significance but also reflect the historical moment. "Dai Cao Binh Ngo" is one such masterpiece. Not only is it the "timeless heroic prose" of Nguyen Trai, but it also serves as a declaration of independence.

A declaration of independence is understood as a document that announces and affirms the independence and sovereignty of a nation, especially after it has just won a victory over foreign invaders. Why can we assert that "Dai Cao Binh Ngo" is a declaration of independence? The first condition for a work to be considered a declaration of independence is that it must be written during or after a war, and it must assert national independence, sovereignty, victory, and peace. The arguments and evidence must be sharp, powerful, and indisputable.

"Dai Cao Binh Ngo" fulfills all these requirements. First, regarding its historical context, the work was written during a monumental moment in the nation's history. In the spring of 1428, after the victory over the Ming forces, Nguyen Trai was ordered by Le Loi to write the declaration to inform the people of the Lam Son uprising's success. After two decades of horrific war and foreign occupation, we had won and regained our national independence and peace. "Dai Cao Binh Ngo" became a victorious anthem, marking the beginning of a new era for the nation—one of complete independence and freedom—becoming a historical epic.

In terms of content, the declaration asserts the sovereignty and independence of the nation, the glorious victory of the Lam Son uprising, and the peace of the people. From the opening verses, Nguyen Trai emphasizes the humanist ideology that runs throughout the work, asserting the victory of the Lam Son uprising:

"The essence of humanity lies in the peace of the people,

The army must first focus on eliminating evil."

According to Confucian thought, Nguyen Trai believed that humanity means ensuring the people's peace, their prosperity, and happiness. In the context of foreign invasion, this required eliminating the oppressors. Specifically, it meant removing the invading Ming forces. Achieving both of these was true humanity. The independence of the nation largely depended on the people, who had struggled for centuries to create and protect the nation’s sovereignty. Thousands of years of hard work, sweat, and blood had built the independence.

Nguyen Trai articulated a deeply humane ideology that led to an affirmation of the nation's independence:

"Our Đại Việt has long been known,

For its lasting civilization,

Its mountains and rivers clearly defined,

Its customs differing from the North,

From the Triệu, Đinh, Lý, Trần dynasties who laid the foundation of independence,

To the Hán, Đường, Tống, Nguyên empires who each called themselves emperor in their own region,

Though strength varied,

There were always heroes to be found."

With a powerful and passionate tone, Nguyen Trai lists various elements to firmly establish the nation's independence—"civilization," "mountains and rivers," "customs," "history," and "heroes." While in "Nam Quốc Sơn Hà," Lý Thường Kiệt referenced the territory through celestial authority, Nguyen Trai in "Dai Cao Binh Ngo" chose concrete, historically undeniable aspects. Phrases like "from before," "since ancient times," "for generations," and "different" emphasize the deep, long-standing history of Đại Việt, asserting that the nation's sovereignty and independence are long-established, distinct, and unmistakable from any other nation.

Moreover, Nguyen Trai highlights a series of our dynasties—"Triệu, Đinh, Lý, Trần"—alongside the northern dynasties—"Hán, Đường, Tống, Nguyên." History records that when China referred to itself as emperor, neighboring countries could only claim lesser titles. However, from the Ngô dynasty, our nation, under Ngô Quyền, also claimed the title of emperor. "Each side claims emperor of its region," our nation stood equally, never inferior. With these elements, Nguyen Trai elevates the truth of independence and confirms the nation's standing. Thus, "Dai Cao Binh Ngo" begins with a powerful, unyielding declaration.

The nation's independence, backed by logical arguments and irrefutable evidence, becomes sacred and "inviolable." The truth of national sovereignty resonates with strength and pride, and it also serves as the legal basis for Nguyen Trai to condemn those who dared to violate our sovereignty:

"Cruel as the Southern bamboo cannot record all crimes,

Dirty as the Eastern Sea cannot wash away its stench."

"Could heaven and earth forgive,

Who dares to allow such injustice?"

"Dai Cao Binh Ngo" exposed all the atrocities committed by the invading Ming forces. For twenty years, our people endured suffering under their brutal, inhumane actions. No amount of recounting could capture the full extent of their heinous crimes.

Nguyen Trai boldly condemns the crimes of the Ming invaders, issuing a verdict against the enemy. The declaration affirms the unjust nature of their actions, while emphasizing the righteousness of our cause, creating empathy and strengthening the persuasive power of the declaration. The talented general wrote these words with a deep sense of anger and frustration, stirring the hearts of the people.

However, sorrow did not stop our heroic nation. United, we stood tall and triumphed in the Lam Son uprising:

"People from all four corners united, raising the bamboo flag high;

Soldiers, united in spirit, with a shared cup of sweet wine."

Though the early stages were fraught with challenges, victory ultimately belonged to our people. With the declaration of victory, the declaration expressed a profound sense of national pride and self-respect. It also highlighted the righteousness of our struggle. The victory over the Ming forces was a just punishment for those who dared to violate our sovereignty.

Ending the "declaration," "Dai Cao Binh Ngo" proclaimed the nation's peace:

"The realm is stable from here on,

The country renews from here on.

The universe may be in flux, but it will eventually return to order,

The sun and moon may fade, but they will shine again.

Forever, the peace will be firm and enduring,

For eternity, shame will be cleansed from our walls."

These are the "sweet fruits and fragrant flowers" of a difficult, heroic struggle. Every line soars, declaring peace that is "firm, renewed, and enduring." The imagery of "the realm, the country, the universe, the sun and moon" evokes a beautiful scene of harmony. It also expresses gratitude toward "heaven, earth, and ancestors" for their hidden assistance and the moral principle of remembering the source of our blessings.

In addition to its content, "Dai Cao Binh Ngo" is also considered a declaration of independence in terms of artistic value. The piece was written in parallel verse, with tight, forceful arguments that are persuasive. Starting from the foundation of humanistic thought and the truth of national sovereignty, it exposes the enemy’s crimes, recounts the Lam Son uprising, and ends with the announcement of peace. Sharp reasoning, persuasive evidence, and a tone of grandeur, resolve, and majesty are masterfully combined. The use of literary techniques and the fluidity of the varying sentence lengths make the work powerful and effective. The declaration affirms the nation's sovereignty, the victory of the Lam Son uprising, and the peace of the people. It also elevates the national spirit, showcasing the philosophical depth and talent of Nguyen Trai.

With all these accomplishments, "Dai Cao Binh Ngo" stands as a deeply significant declaration, not only in literature but also in Vietnamese history. Even after many years, it remains a monumental part of our literary heritage, echoing the voice of our homeland in every recitation.

In the 11th century, the Song invaders were left bewildered upon hearing the sound of the Nam Quoc Son Ha poem echoing by the Nhu Nguyet Riverbank; similarly, in the 20th century, the French colonists lost their justification for so-called 'civilization and motherland' after listening to Ho Chi Minh’s impassioned words in the Declaration of Independence. But in the 15th century, how could we forget the 'timeless heroic words' of the Bình Ngô Đại Cáo by Nguyễn Trãi? Born after the victory over the Ming invaders by the Lam Sơn uprising, this proclamation soared high with the spirit of independence and patriotism, a message to be remembered forever. To this day, Bình Ngô Đại Cáo remains a profound declaration of Vietnam's independence.

For a work to be considered a declaration of independence, it must be written during or after a battle. Its content always includes three elements: affirmation of independence and sovereignty, declaration of victory, and announcement of peace. When measured against these criteria, Bình Ngô Đại Cáo fits perfectly. After defeating the Ming, in the spring of 1428, under the orders of Lê Lợi, Nguyễn Trãi wrote the proclamation to announce the nation’s independence, the victory of the Lam Sơn uprising, and the declaration of peace following two decades of occupation and war. Thus, this immortal anthem became a triumphant song for a new era of total independence and freedom for the nation.

With its rhythmic parallelism and powerful tone, Bình Ngô Đại Cáo opens with a firm statement: 'Đại Việt is our homeland.'

Just as Đại Việt has always been,

…

And heroes have always existed.

Through a list of aspects such as culture, rivers, borders, customs, history, and heroes, Nguyễn Trãi establishes the nation's independence in a complete and definitive way. While in Nam Quoc Sơn Ha, Lý Thường Kiệt affirmed the territory alone, referencing the heavens, Bình Ngô Đại Cáo elevates the concept of independence with many concrete aspects rather than abstract notions. The compelling strength of this argument lies in comparing Đại Việt with the mighty Han Empire. Instead of emphasizing size or strength, Nguyễn Trãi compares two nations, two peoples, asserting that both are equal in the crucial aspect of existence. This assertion of independence, therefore, gains immense credibility and lifts Vietnam’s status to a level equal to that of the Han Empire. Moreover, the repeated terms 'before,' 'long ago,' 'separated,' 'different,' 'for centuries,' etc., further emphasize that the foundation of independence and sovereignty has existed for a long time, as long as the existence of the northern empire itself. Hence, the proclamation begins with an indomitable affirmation, something 'irrefutable' that history has recognized and recorded.

Bình Ngô Đại Cáo not only asserts independence but also highlights its moral foundation. This independence is not the result of divine will but of human effort. It is the people, through centuries of sacrifice, suffering, and shared hardships, who have built this independence. Countless lives have been lost, and countless tears shed by the people for the cause. Therefore, this independence is 'invincible.' For the first time in six centuries, the truth of national sovereignty resounds with a bold, proud declaration of independence. This serves as a strong legal and moral foundation for Nguyễn Trãi to continue condemning the invaders who sought to violate the country’s sovereignty.

The 'declaration' in Bình Ngô Đại Cáo firmly condemns the crimes of the Ming invaders who wreaked havoc on the nation for twenty years. From their malicious plots to their brutal and savage actions, Nguyễn Trãi wrote with bitterness and indignation:

How cruel are the Southern bamboo groves, unable to record the full extent of their crimes,

How foul is the Eastern Sea, unable to wash away the stench.

Can heaven and earth forgive them?

Who can bear to tolerate this?

Despite the suffering, the nation rose up:

The people of all four corners united, raising the bamboo flag high;

The generals and soldiers, with fatherly bonds, drank sweet wine by the river.

The entire proclamation is an epic anthem, a heroic song about the glorious victories that the people achieved together. Indeed, only the truth of independence and freedom can inspire such fiery passion. Nguyễn Trãi had undoubtedly waited many years to write these unforgettable historical moments, reaffirming that this war, this uprising, was based on righteousness. By using the power of rightful force to defeat unjust violence, the victory over the Ming invaders became a historic punishment for those who violated sovereignty, seeking fame but failing, aiming for greatness but meeting their doom.

Thus, after years of hardship and glory, the nation received the 'sweet fruit':

The country is now secure,

The landscape is forever renewed.

The universe will eventually turn,

The sun and moon will shine again.

For eternity, peace will reign,

For thousands of years, disgrace will be wiped away.

The tone of the poem, calm yet soaring, echoes with the strength of its words. Secure, renewed, firm… these are the bold declarations full of joy and pride. The law of life is that after hardship comes prosperity, after darkness comes light, but surely, this can only be achieved through the efforts of generations of people who have preserved the nation’s independence. The imagery of the country, the landscape, the universe, and the sun and moon grows stronger, as if only these cosmic symbols can measure the true extent of peace. The truth of independence reverberates, expanding ever farther. Yet Nguyễn Trãi does not forget the gratitude to the divine and the ancestors who helped make such a great victory possible. This declaration also carries the principle of remembering one's roots. Thus, the author of this proclamation not only displays exceptional talent but also possesses boundless virtue. The value of independence and sovereignty in this declaration is built upon humanistic ideas and rooted traditions.

The Bình Ngô Đại Cáo is not only a historical document but also a masterpiece of political rhetoric that continues to be regarded as one of the 'timeless heroic texts,' an enduring work of political writing. Regardless of its value, it cannot be denied that it has made a monumental contribution to the ideology of national independence on an international scale. This grand scope once again affirms that it is a proud declaration of Vietnam’s independence, reflecting the deep patriotism of the people and the yearning for peace of all humanity.

When talking about the "Bình Ngô Đại Cáo" by Nguyễn Trãi, one immediately recalls a historical document, an epic proclamation of victory from a nation that endured twenty years of hardship under foreign rule and warfare against the Ming invaders. This masterpiece is a crystallization of the patriotism, resilient spirit, and determination of a people who lived through painful, humiliating days, yet achieved glory. Written by the brilliant writer Nguyễn Trãi using the highest form of political discourse, it stands as an exemplary piece of literature, unrivaled in the medieval period. Hence, it deserves to be called a "timeless heroic work" of literature. A "timeless heroic work" refers to a piece of writing that remains powerful and inspiring for a thousand years. Achieving such a title requires not only excellence in content and artistry but also profound historical and philosophical values that resonate through the ages. Perhaps, only a work that touches the hearts of generations and embodies ideas of great significance can endure for so long. "Bình Ngô Đại Cáo" is indeed such a literary work. Years have passed, yet our nation remains proud of this magnificent piece of writing. It has inspired national pride, a sense of identity, the desire for peace, and the unyielding will to defend the homeland. Nguyễn Trãi poured countless emotions into his pen, beginning with a decisive and resolute opening: "The work of righteousness lies in ensuring peace for the people, The military must first strike to eliminate the evil." The concept of righteousness originates from Confucian thought, advocating for good behavior between individuals, but Nguyễn Trãi elevated it to a societal ideal, a national ethic that endures through the ages. This righteousness, rooted in "the people are the foundation," was not just about eliminating the Ming invaders; it was about removing any threat to the people so they could live in peace and prosperity. The opening lines reflect a fierce assertion of national sovereignty and independence: "Just like Đại Việt's land has always been," "Heroes are born in every age." This assertion of independence is a powerful declaration in the face of a northern empire, a direct blow to those who sought to destroy our nation. The text also carries a sense of deep anger and resentment toward the atrocities of the foreign invaders. How could we ever forget the haunting scenes depicted by Nguyễn Trãi: "Roasting the innocent on flames of fury," "Burying the newborns in cursed pits." For twenty years, the invaders ravaged the land, leaving behind destruction and sorrow, affecting not only humans but also insects and plants. The crimes were so horrific that even the East Sea could not cleanse their bloodshed, and the Nam Sơn mountains could not record all their wrongs. Nguyễn Trãi captures this suffering and reminds us of the countless enemies, not just the Ming, but throughout history, who embodied cruelty and destruction. Furthermore, the piece conveys Nguyễn Trãi's deep concern for the nation's future, expressed through his love for the people and his patriotism. It is no coincidence that he dedicated more than twenty lines to the great leader Lê Lợi, a hero born from the people's struggles. Lê Lợi shared the pain and hatred of his people and, through determination, led them to victory. The triumph was not only due to military tactics but also the unity of the people and their unwavering loyalty: "Using righteousness to conquer brutality, With benevolence replacing tyranny." These principles of righteousness and benevolence were not only guiding lights for the people at the time but have become eternal symbols of resistance against tyranny throughout history. The work's energy, intensity, and sense of purpose shine brightest when it depicts the heroic resistance against the Ming forces. The battles and successive defeats of the enemy, starting from Nghệ An, Thanh Hóa, to Đông Đô, and Thăng Long, create a vivid and brutal image of war—thunder, lightning, bloodshed, and devastation. The enemy, once full of arrogance and bloodlust, is now trembling, surrendering, and ultimately defeated. Nguyễn Trãi vividly depicts the enemy's humiliation, contrasting it with the indomitable spirit of the Vietnamese people. Yet, even in victory, there is a moment of mercy—fighting until the enemy has no way to resist, showing benevolence at the right moment. This victory, guided by the principles of righteousness and humanity, becomes immortal in the nation's history. Finally, the tone rises to one of celebratory joy, expressing the triumph of independence and peace for the nation, a dream turned into reality. The writer must have been deeply moved: "The country is now strong and stable, The landscape is renewed." This victory follows the natural cycle of rise and fall, but it is the unity of the people and the brilliance of the leaders that have laid the foundation for future generations. This proclamation serves as a reminder of the values that have kept the nation strong for centuries. "Bình Ngô Đại Cáo" is not only a victory song but a shining epic, resonating with pride and self-assurance throughout history. Nguyễn Trãi transformed a dry historical document into a passionate, timeless work of art, full of meaning for future generations. Moreover, the "timeless" quality of the work lies in Nguyễn Trãi's extraordinary skill in political writing. "Bình Ngô Đại Cáo" elevated the art of political writing to a model level. The proclamation, while aimed at the people of Đại Việt, also directly challenges the mighty forces of the time, declaring the nation's independence and unyielding strength. The victory was hard-won, but the truth of it is indisputable. The document stands as a final judgment on the wrongdoings of the enemy, delivered in a powerful, unwavering voice that has been etched into the hearts of the Vietnamese people for generations. Furthermore, the structure of the piece is remarkably cohesive. Starting with a foundation of righteous ideals, it exposes the enemy's crimes and argues for the necessity of defending those principles. Nguyễn Trãi builds his argument step by step, employing a symmetrical style with contrasts, metaphors, and epic imagery to create a grand, heroic narrative. The reasoning is sharp, founded on the concept of righteousness, which ultimately reveals the deceit and cruelty of the invaders. This work reminds us that peace and independence are the natural consequences of a nation united by righteousness. The language, rich in imagery and emotion, is one of the key elements that has ensured the lasting power of the work, which has been faithfully translated for future generations. To quote the poet Xuân Diệu as a conclusion: "Before Lê Lợi, there was the glorious victory of the Trần Dynasty over the Mongol invaders, and after Lê Lợi, there was the swift triumph of King Quang Trung against the 200,000 Thanh forces. Yet, in literary history, there is only one "Bình Ngô Đại Cáo"—because there was only one Nguyễn Trãi, a unique genius of his time, whose literary brilliance created this timeless masterpiece."