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Classic Literature· Vietnam

The Tale of Kieu

by Nguyễn Du
Aggregate Editorial Score30/100
Published 1820Vietnamese
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About This Book

Published in 1820, The Tale of Kieu established Nguyễn Du as one of the defining voices in classic literature. The Tale of Kieu is an epic poem and a cornerstone of Vietnamese literature. Written by Nguyễn Du, it tells the tragic story of Thúy Kiều, a young woman who sacrifices herself to save her family. The poem is renowned for its lyrical beauty, intricate narrative, and exploration of themes such as fate, love, and morality. It remains a beloved classic, reflecting the cultural and philosophical values of Vietnam. Themes of fate and destiny, sacrifice, love and morality run through the work.

Book Details

AuthorNguyễn Du
Published1820
Country of Origin🇻🇳 Vietnam
LanguageVietnamese
Category🏛️ Classic Literature
Editorial Score30/100
About the Category

🏛️ Classic Literature

Enduring works that have shaped world literature across centuries.

Explore all Classic Literature books →
Country of Origin

🇻🇳 Vietnam

This book is part of Vietnam's rich literary tradition.

Explore books from Vietnam →

Editorial Assessment

Nguyễn Du published The Tale of Kieu in 1820, and it has since become one of the more widely recognised works of classic literature from Vietnam. The book's treatment of fate and destiny, sacrifice, love and morality, family duty accounts for much of its enduring reputation. Critics and institutions have consistently placed The Tale of Kieu among the notable works of its period. Our aggregate score of 30/100 is compiled from 1 editorial sources that range from Nobel and Booker committees to leading literary journals. Readers coming to The Tale of Kieu for the first time will find a work that rewards patience. The book's handling of fate and destiny, sacrifice, love and morality, family duty is layered rather than didactic, and a second reading often reveals dimensions the first pass only hinted at. Within Vietnam's literary landscape, Nguyễn Du occupies a significant position. The Tale of Kieu is both a personal artistic statement and a contribution to a tradition shaped by the country's history and cultural concerns.
About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from 1 independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.

Awards & Recognition

TIME 100 Best Novels
list · global
20050
✍️
About the Author
Nguyễn Du
Vietnam
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Nguyễn Du is a Vietnam author whose work in classic literature has earned recognition from readers and critics alike.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Tale of Kieu about?

The Tale of Kieu is an epic poem and a cornerstone of Vietnamese literature. Written by Nguyễn Du, it tells the tragic story of Thúy Kiều, a young woman who sacrifices herself to save her family. The poem is renowned for its lyrical beauty, intricate narrative, and exploration of themes such as fate, love, and morality. It remains a beloved classic, reflecting the cultural and philosophical values of Vietnam.

Who wrote The Tale of Kieu?

The Tale of Kieu was written by Nguyễn Du, from Vietnam. First published in 1820.

What awards has The Tale of Kieu won?

The Tale of Kieu has received the following recognition: notable critical recognition.

Is The Tale of Kieu worth reading?

The Tale of Kieu is a well-regarded book with an aggregate editorial score of 30/100 on 50 Best Books. It is particularly recommended for readers interested in fate and destiny, sacrifice, love and morality.

Where can I buy The Tale of Kieu?

You can buy The Tale of Kieu on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is The Tale of Kieu?

The Tale of Kieu is classified as Classic Literature. Enduring works that have shaped world literature across centuries.

What country is The Tale of Kieu from?

The Tale of Kieu originates from Vietnam's literary tradition. Explore more books from Vietnam on our country page.

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