Story Summary
Discover the legendary origin of Vietnam in the story of Au Co and Lac Long Quan, the Dragon and Fairy ancestors who birthed a nation from a hundred eggs.
In ancient times, Lac Long Quan, a Dragon Lord from the depths of the sea, often visited the land to help the people by vanquishing monsters and teaching agriculture. One day, he met Au Co, a beautiful fairy princess from the high mountains. They fell in love and married. Au Co soon gave birth to a sac containing one hundred eggs, which hatched into one hundred strong and handsome sons. However, the couple eventually realized their natures were too different to remain together forever. Lac Long Quan longed for the sea, while Au Co yearned for the mountains. They decided to part ways, with fifty sons following their father to the coast and fifty following their mother to the highlands. Before parting, they promised to assist each other whenever needed. These children became the ancestors of the Vietnamese people, the 'Children of the Dragon and the Fairy,' and their eldest son became the first Hung King, founder of the first Vietnamese dynasty.
The Moral
Unity and mutual support define a nation; despite different backgrounds or paths, we are all connected by a shared heritage.
“We are of different natures, like water and fire, but our hearts remain joined for the future of our children.”
Fun Fact
The Vietnamese term for 'compatriot' is 'dong bao,' which literally translates to 'from the same womb,' a direct reference to the one hundred eggs in this myth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of Au Co and Lac Long Quan?
The story emphasizes unity in diversity and the importance of honoring one's ancestral roots. It teaches that despite living in different regions, all people share a common bond and must support one another.
Who are the children of the Dragon and the Fairy?
The children are the one hundred sons born from the egg sac of Au Co. They are considered the legendary ancestors of the Vietnamese people, often referred to as 'Con Rong Chau Tien'.
Why did Au Co and Lac Long Quan separate?
They separated because their elemental natures were incompatible; Lac Long Quan belonged to the sea while Au Co belonged to the mountains. They realized they could best serve their children by governing different terrains.
Who was the first Hung King?
The eldest son, who followed Au Co to the mountains, established the kingdom of Van Lang and became the first Hung King. This marked the beginning of the legendary Hung dynasty in Vietnam.
What does the egg sac symbolize in Vietnamese culture?
The egg sac symbolizes national solidarity and the concept of 'dong bao,' which means 'from the same womb.' it reinforces the idea that all Vietnamese people are part of one large family.
How is this legend celebrated today?
The legend is commemorated during the Hung Kings' Temple Festival, a national holiday in Vietnam. It is a time for people to offer incense and remember their mythical ancestors and the birth of the nation.
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