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Mythology and History

Trung Sisters (Hai Bà Trưng)

Hai Bà Trưng, the Trưng Sisters, are celebrated heroines in Vietnamese history, mentioned during Mai and Duy Khanh's court debate in Chapter 13 as symbols of feminism. The Trưng sisters, Trưng Trắc and Trưng Nhị, led a rebellion against Chinese Han Dynasty rule in AD 40. They successfully established an autonomous state for three years before being defeated. Their bravery and leadership have made them enduring symbols of resistance and empowerment for women in Vietnam. The sisters' legacy continues to inspire Vietnamese feminist movements and cultural pride.

Lady Triệu (Bà Triệu)

Bà Triệu, also known as Lady Triệu, is another iconic figure referenced in the same court debate as a symbol of feminism. In the 3rd century, Lady Triệu led a rebellion against the occupying forces of the Eastern Wu dynasty. Renowned for her fierce independence and combat skills, she declared her ambition to ride storms and kill sharks in the open sea, embodying the spirit of resistance. Despite her ultimate defeat, Bà Triệu's legend endures as a powerful representation of women's strength and defiance in Vietnamese history.

The tale of My Chau and Trong Thuy (Mỵ Châu and Trọng Thủy)

In the novel, the tale of Mỵ Châu and Trọng Thủy is reimagined as the story of Mỵ Tiên and Vân Hiếu, forming the core mythology that inspires the plot. Historically, the story tells of Mỵ Châu, a princess, and Trọng Thủy, a prince from a rival kingdom. Their tragic love story involves betrayal and loss, with Mỵ Châu's inadvertent betrayal leading to her father’s downfall. The narrative serves as an allegory of trust, loyalty, and the devastating consequences of love entangled with political intrigue. This myth is pivotal in Vietnamese literature and culture, reflecting themes of loyalty, tragedy, and the complex interplay of personal and political conflicts.

In the novel, a key difference from the original tale is what happens after Mỵ Tiên's death. She prays to the dark god to never fall in love again. In response, the god pins a magical goose feather (a symbol from the coat her husband gave her) on her heart, cursing all her doppelgängers, including Empress Le Pham and Mai, for 3000 years.