Đại Việt Sử Ký Toàn Thư

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The *Đại Việt Sử Ký Toàn Thư* (Complete Annals of Đại Việt), a monumental work of Vietnamese historiography, stands as a testament to the rich and complex history of the nation. Compiled over centuries by generations of scholars and officials, this comprehensive chronicle offers a unique window into the political, social, and cultural landscape of Vietnam from its earliest beginnings to the 17th century. Its meticulous documentation of events, coupled with its insightful analysis of historical trends, has cemented its status as a cornerstone of Vietnamese national identity and a valuable resource for scholars worldwide. #### The Genesis of a National Chronicle The *Đại Việt Sử Ký Toàn Thư* emerged from a long tradition of Vietnamese historiography. Early chronicles, such as the *Lĩnh Nam Chích Quái* (Strange Tales of the South of the Pass) and the *Việt Sử Lược* (Abridged History of Vietnam), provided valuable accounts of the nation's past. However, these works were often fragmented and lacked a comprehensive scope. The need for a unified and authoritative history became increasingly apparent as Vietnam consolidated its power and asserted its independence from foreign influence. In the 13th century, under the reign of Trần Thái Tông, the first comprehensive history of Vietnam, the *Đại Việt Sử Ký*, was commissioned. This initial work, completed in 1272, laid the foundation for the later *Toàn Thư*. Over the following centuries, subsequent emperors and scholars continued to expand and refine the chronicle, incorporating new information and perspectives. #### The Structure and Content of the *Đại Việt Sử Ký Toàn Thư* The *Đại Việt Sử Ký Toàn Thư* is divided into 15 volumes, each covering a specific period of Vietnamese history. The chronicle begins with the legendary origins of the Vietnamese people and traces their development through the various dynasties, including the Hồng Bàng, the Hùng Vương, the Triệu, the Lý, the Trần, and the Lê. The *Đại Việt Sử Ký Toàn Thư* is not merely a dry recitation of facts. It offers a nuanced and insightful analysis of historical events, exploring the motivations of key figures, the interplay of political forces, and the impact of social and cultural factors. The chronicle also includes a wealth of information on Vietnamese customs, beliefs, and institutions, providing valuable insights into the daily lives of the people. #### The Significance of the *Đại Việt Sử Ký Toàn Thư* The *Đại Việt Sử Ký Toàn Thư* holds immense significance for both Vietnamese and international scholarship. It serves as a primary source for understanding the history of Vietnam, providing a detailed and authoritative account of the nation's past. The chronicle's meticulous documentation of events, coupled with its insightful analysis of historical trends, has made it an invaluable resource for historians, anthropologists, and other scholars. Beyond its academic value, the *Đại Việt Sử Ký Toàn Thư* has played a crucial role in shaping Vietnamese national identity. The chronicle's emphasis on the nation's long and rich history, its celebration of Vietnamese heroes and achievements, and its portrayal of the Vietnamese people as a resilient and resourceful nation have contributed to a sense of national pride and unity. #### The Legacy of the *Đại Việt Sử Ký Toàn Thư* The *Đại Việt Sử Ký Toàn Thư* remains a vital resource for understanding the history of Vietnam. Its comprehensive scope, meticulous documentation, and insightful analysis have made it a cornerstone of Vietnamese historiography. The chronicle's enduring legacy lies not only in its academic value but also in its role in shaping Vietnamese national identity and fostering a sense of pride in the nation's past. The *Đại Việt Sử Ký Toàn Thư* continues to inspire generations of Vietnamese scholars and citizens, reminding them of the rich and complex history of their nation and the enduring spirit of the Vietnamese people.