Goblin

The princess and the goblin (1920) (14566641580)

DnD Goblin

Goblin refers to a mythical creature from European folklore, first appearing in stories during the Middle Ages. They are often described as small, grotesque, mischievous or outright malevolent beings. Goblins have been depicted in various ways in different cultures throughout Europe, but they are generally considered to be harmful to human beings, engaging in activities such as stealing, hiding household items, or even abducting children.

Characteristics

Goblins are characterized by their small stature, often not much larger than a child, with grotesque and distorted features. Their skin colors can vary widely, from green to brown, or even grey, depending on the folklore or the creative interpretation in modern media. They are commonly depicted with pointed ears, and sometimes with large noses or eyes. Goblins are known for their cunning nature, their love of mischief, and their ability to create chaos. They are often shown living in dark places, such as caves or deep in the forest, away from human settlements.

Origins

The origins of the goblin myth are believed to be a conglomeration of various folk beliefs about spirits and demons that were harmful to humans. These beliefs likely stem from pre-Christian times and were later amalgamated into the medieval lore of many European cultures. The term "goblin" itself may have originated from the Greek word "kobalos," meaning "rogue," or from the Middle French word "gobelin," which was the name of a ghost that supposedly haunted the town of Évreux in Normandy.

In Literature and Media

Goblins have been a popular subject in literature and media for centuries. In literature, one of the most famous appearances of goblins is in J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth legendarium, where they are depicted as evil creatures allied with orcs and other dark forces. In modern media, goblins appear in various forms, from the mischievous but relatively harmless creatures in children's stories to the malevolent beings found in fantasy literature and role-playing games.

Cultural Variations

While the basic concept of a goblin is relatively consistent, different cultures have their own versions of these creatures, each with unique traits and lore. For example, in German folklore, there is the "Kobold," a spirit that can be either helpful or harmful, depending on how it is treated. In Scandinavian folklore, goblins are often replaced with creatures like "trolls" or "elves," which share some characteristics with goblins but have their distinct stories and attributes.

Modern Depictions

In contemporary culture, goblins are a staple of fantasy genres, appearing in books, movies, video games, and tabletop role-playing games. Their roles can vary widely, from comic relief to serious threats. The flexibility of the goblin archetype allows for a wide range of interpretations, making them a versatile element in fantasy and horror genres.

See Also

• Folklore
• Mythical creatures
• European folklore
• J.R.R. Tolkien
• Fantasy literature