The Ordinary Serpent: A Vietnamese Folk Tale Exploring Jealousy and Transformation!

Vietnam boasts a rich tapestry of folklore, steeped in ancient wisdom and captivating tales passed down through generations. While many focus on heroic exploits or mystical creatures, “The Ordinary Serpent” offers a unique glimpse into the human heart, exploring themes of jealousy, transformation, and ultimately, forgiveness. This 15th-century story, although seemingly simple, carries profound layers of meaning that resonate even today.

A Tale of Two Siblings

Our tale unfolds in a humble village nestled amidst verdant rice paddies. We meet two siblings: a hardworking elder brother known for his kindness and humility, and a younger sister consumed by envy. The brother, dedicated to his craft as a farmer, toils tirelessly to provide for their family, while the sister spends her days dreaming of wealth and status.

One fateful day, while tending his fields, the brother discovers an unusual serpent basking in the sun. Unlike other serpents feared for their venomous bite, this one exudes an aura of gentleness. Moved by compassion, the brother offers the serpent some fresh fruit and water. The grateful creature, revealing its magical abilities, bestows upon the brother a wish. Overwhelmed with joy, the brother requests prosperity for his family and abundant harvests for the village.

News of the brother’s newfound fortune reaches the sister’s ears, igniting her insatiable jealousy. Unable to bear the sight of her brother’s success, she hatches a treacherous plan. She lures the serpent into a trap, intending to exploit its magic for her own selfish desires.

The Price of Envy

The sister, blinded by greed, demands the serpent grant her beauty beyond compare and riches beyond measure. However, the serpent, wise to her wicked intentions, warns her that true happiness cannot be attained through deceit. Ignoring his words, the sister insists on her wishes.

As a consequence of her actions, the sister is transformed into a hideous serpent herself, forever cursed to slither through the darkness. The story ends with the brother lamenting his sister’s fate, emphasizing the destructive nature of envy and the importance of valuing compassion over material possessions.

Symbolism and Meaning in “The Ordinary Serpent”

Beyond its entertaining narrative, “The Ordinary Serpent” offers profound insights into human behavior and societal values.

• The Serpent as a Symbol: Serpents often hold ambivalent connotations in folklore, representing both danger and wisdom. In this tale, the serpent embodies kindness and the power of granting wishes. However, it also serves as a reminder that true happiness stems from inner virtues rather than external possessions.

• Brotherly Love and Forgiveness: Despite the sister’s treachery, the brother expresses sorrow for her fate, demonstrating the enduring power of familial love and forgiveness.

Cultural Significance and Enduring Relevance

“The Ordinary Serpent,” though originating in 15th-century Vietnam, continues to resonate with audiences across cultures and generations. Its simple yet powerful message transcends geographical boundaries and speaks to universal human experiences:

• Materialism vs. Spiritual Fulfillment: The tale cautions against the pursuit of material wealth as the sole measure of happiness. It encourages introspection and self-discovery, emphasizing that true contentment arises from inner peace and kindness.

• Consequences of Actions: “The Ordinary Serpent” highlights the importance of taking responsibility for one’s actions. The sister’s envy leads to her downfall, demonstrating that ethical choices have lasting consequences.

• Redemption through Forgiveness: While the story depicts a tragic outcome for the sister, the brother’s unwavering compassion offers a glimmer of hope. It suggests that forgiveness can transcend even the deepest transgressions and pave the way for healing.

“The Ordinary Serpent,” beyond its captivating narrative, serves as a timeless reminder of the virtues that shape our humanity. It encourages us to cultivate empathy, resist the allure of envy, and strive for inner peace amidst the complexities of life.