Elf
Elf is a mythical creature that originates from Germanic mythology and Norse mythology, and has been widely popularized in modern fantasy literature and media. Elves are often depicted as youthful-seeming beings, possessing great beauty and longevity, alongside a range of magical powers. The concept of elves has evolved significantly over the centuries, influenced by folklore, literature, and popular culture.
Etymology[edit | edit source]
The word "elf" comes from the Old English word ælf, which has parallels in all other Germanic languages. The Germanic word is originally from the Proto-Germanic '*albiz*', which is possibly derived from a Proto-Indo-European root meaning 'white' or 'bright'.
Characteristics[edit | edit source]
Elves are commonly described as taller than humans with pointed ears and ethereal features. They are often associated with nature, living in forests, and having a deep connection to the earth and its wildlife. Elves are typically portrayed as wise, with a deep knowledge of magic and ancient lore. In many depictions, elves are immortal or live exceptionally long lives.
Cultural Depictions[edit | edit source]
- In Mythology
In traditional Germanic and Norse lore, elves are often divided into light elves (Ljósálfar) and dark elves (Dökkálfar), with the former residing in the heavens and the latter found underground. They could be benevolent or malevolent towards humans.
- In Literature
Elves gained immense popularity through the works of J.R.R. Tolkien, who redefined elves in his Middle-earth legendarium, notably in The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. Tolkien’s elves are an ancient race of powerful beings who are more noble and wise than humans, with intricate cultures and languages.
- In Popular Culture
Elves have become staple characters in modern fantasy genres, appearing in a myriad of books, films, and video games. They are often key characters in high fantasy settings, such as in the Warcraft series, The Elder Scrolls, and Dragon Age.
Elves in Festive Culture[edit | edit source]
Elves also play a prominent role in Christmas folklore, particularly in American and other Western cultures, where they are depicted as Santa Claus's helpers, making toys in his workshop at the North Pole.
See Also[edit | edit source]
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
|
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
| Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Translate this page: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
தமிழ்,
తెలుగు,
Urdu,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
বাংলা
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
Greek,
português do Brasil,
polski,
română,
русский,
Nederlands,
norsk,
svenska,
suomi,
Italian
Middle Eastern & African
عربى,
Turkish,
Persian,
Hebrew,
Afrikaans,
isiZulu,
Kiswahili,
Other
Bulgarian,
Hungarian,
Czech,
Swedish,
മലയാളം,
मराठी,
ਪੰਜਾਬੀ,
ગુજરાતી,
Portuguese,
Ukrainian
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
