Trạng nguyên (First Doctoral Candidates) in Thăng Long during the Lê Dynasty

In the history of Vietnam’s Confucian examinations, Thăng Long was not only the political and cultural center of the nation but also a place where talent converged and shone. Through the Confucian examinations held under the Lê Dynasty, many outstanding scholars claimed the prestigious title of Trạng nguyên (First Doctoral Candidate) – the highest degree awarded in the Royal Examinations (khoa thi Đình) – leaving a lasting mark in the nation’s history of education and competitive examinations.

The summary list below introduces seven Trạng nguyên from the Lê Dynasty examinations who hailed from the land of Thăng Long – Hanoi, spanning from the examination of 1442 to that of 1736. Each name is associated with an examination year, a native homeland, and a distinct imprint on the nation’s tradition of studiousness and value for talented individuals.

These distinguished scholars stand as vivid proof of the enduring traditions of “respecting teachers and morality” (tôn sư trọng đạo), “studiousness” (hiếu học), and honoring talent in Thăng Long – a land that over centuries has always been regarded as one of the great cradles of Vietnamese culture and heritage.

Let us explore these exemplary Trạng nguyên and the academic journeys that contributed to the rich cultural tradition of Thăng Long – Hanoi: