Women’s breast symbols in Vietnamese folk literature

This article explores the symbolic representations of women’s breasts in Vietnamese folk literature through a multidisciplinary approach combining literary analysis, cultural studies, and gender perspectives. Although breast imagery is relatively scarce in Vietnamese traditions, it conveys rich and layered meanings. The paper categorizes these symbols into three main groups: the sacred breast, the erotic breast, and the aesthetic breast. These appear respectively in myths, jokes, and beauty ideals – associated with motherhood, desire, and feminine charm. Drawing on sources such as folk songs, proverbs, and legends, the study shows that breast symbolism reflects both reverence and ambivalence toward the female body. It offers insight into Vietnamese cultural values and gender perceptions as expressed in oral literature.