Vietnam: What is the brief sample analysis of the Poem "Nam quốc sơn hà" for 8th-grade students? What are the educational stages in the general education program?

Brief Analysis of the Poem "Nam quốc sơn hà"

Sample 1:

The poem "Nam quốc sơn hà" has long been considered the first declaration of independence of the Vietnamese nation. Emerging in the context of the resistance against the Song Dynasty during the time of Ly Thuong Kiet, the poem not only holds historical value but also deeply embodies the spirit of pride and determination to protect the nation's sovereignty.

"Nam quốc sơn hà Nam đế cư

Tiệt nhiên định phận tại thiên thư"

The first two lines resonate powerfully as a firm declaration: the territories of the Southern nation belong to the Southern people, which has been affirmed by the "heaven's book" (thien thu). The phrase "Nam quốc sơn hà" asserts that the Southern nation is an independent entity with its distinct territory. The term "Nam de cu" emphasizes that the Southern king legitimately governs the country, standing on par with other nations, refuting the notion of Vietnam as a colony of the North.

The image of the "heaven's book" reflects a belief that the sovereignty of the Southern nation is not only based on historical grounds but also divinely protected, rendering it inviolable. The concise verse carries profound implications of righteousness and the nation's self-reliant spirit.

"Như hà nghịch lỗ lai xâm phạm

Nhữ đẳng hành khan thủ bại hư"

The following two lines shift to a tone of warning, full of determination. The rhetorical question “Nhu ha nghich lo lai xam pham” not only condemns the aggressive actions of invaders but also expresses contempt for those who disregard morality. The phrase “nghich lo” carries a piercing implication, strongly opposing actions that defy the heavens, violating the sacred territory.

The final line “Nhu dang hanh khan thu bai hu” is a confident prophecy about the enemy's inevitable defeat. This is not only a belief in military strength but also an affirmation that justice always triumphs over injustice. With a heroic tone, the poem stirred up the spirit of unity and determination to protect the country among the people and soldiers of Dai Viet.

Though concise, the poem carries immense power due to the perfect combination of content and art. The condensed, succinct language conveys the determination and belief of the entire nation. The decisive, powerful tone creates a majestic resonance, spurring the fighting spirit. The symbolic use of "heaven's book" underscores the legitimacy of the Southern nation.

"Nam quốc sơn hà" is not only a literary work but also a symbol of patriotism and the will to protect national independence. The poem, echoing from the 11th century, remains valuable today, reminding us of our ancestors’ heroic traditions and the responsibility to protect and develop the country. The work is not just the voice of an era but also a timeless manifesto, stirring national pride in every Vietnamese.

Sample 2:

"Nam quốc sơn hà" is a firm assertion of the nation's territorial sovereignty as well as the determination to defend that sovereignty against all enemies:

"Nam quốc sơn hà Nam đế cư,

Tiệt nhiên định phận tại thiên thư.

Như hà nghịch lỗ lai xâm phạm,

Nhữ đẳng hành khan thủ bại hư."

There are many accounts of the poem's origin, but the most famous is from the year 1077, when the Song army, led by Guo Wei, invaded our country. King Ly Nhan Tong ordered Ly Thuong Kiet to intercept the enemy at the Nhu Nguyet River defense line. One night, voices were heard reciting this poem from the temple dedicated to the two siblings Truong Hong and Truong Hat - two great generals of Trieu Quang Phuc, revered as the gods of the Nhu Nguyet River.

In feudal times, the king held all power. All lands, wealth, and people were under the king's ownership or rule. In the first line, the affirmation that the rivers and mountains of the Southern nation belong to the Southern emperor is expressed powerfully. The use of “the Southern emperor” also reflects self-esteem, equating the nation with the North. “Heaven's book” means the book of heaven. The second line's meaning is that the territory and domain of the nation have been inscribed in the book of heaven. This is an undeniable truth.

The last two lines affirm the determination to protect the nation's territorial sovereignty. The rhetorical question “Nhu ha nghich lo lai xam pham?” is a warning to invaders. Clearly, our nation's territorial sovereignty has been recognized from time immemorial, witnessed by heaven and earth. The enemies’ violation is against the will of heaven and will be duly punished. Invaders and conquerors of other nations often do not meet a good end—they will be greatly repelled. The seven-word quatrain poetic form, combined with a heroic tone and rhetorical questions, contributes to affirming the nation's sovereignty and resolve to defend it.

"Nam quốc sơn hà" has become the first Declaration of Independence, reflecting the nation’s spirit and strength.