Mythology/Folklore

European, Germanic, Slavic

Associated Holidays

Samhain, Halloween, Various European Holidays

Country 

Throughout Europe, Germany, Slavic Countries, United States

Key Points / Halloween Connection

- Term comes from French, Latin and Greek words

- Character comes from Germanic lore and is a troublesome and malicous spirit

Rink Fact: Small humanoid goblin is based on the work of J.R.R. Tolkien

Brief Bio

Goblins have a history rooted in European folklore, first recorded in the 14th century in England but originating from older French, Latin, and Greek words for "mischievous spirit" or "knave". They were initially depicted as mischievous or evil house spirits, like the German Kobold, before modern fantasy works, notably by J.R.R. Tolkien, solidified the common image of them as malicious, humanoid creatures dwelling in mountains or caves.  

Goblins are associated with Halloween due to their folklore roots as mischievous and evil spirits that, along with ghosts and other supernatural beings, were believed to return to the mortal world during the Celtic festival of Samhain. This ancient festival, which evolved into Halloween, involved wearing masks and lighting bonfires to ward off these spirits. Today, goblins are a popular and common theme for Halloween decorations and costumes, often appearing alongside other classic monsters. 

Origins and Early History

Word Origin: The word "goblin" appeared in the early 14th century in English, derived from the 12th-century Norman French gobelin.

 

Medieval Beliefs: Gobelinus was the name of a specific demon haunting Normandy, but the term broadened to include various mischievous, often malevolent spirits, similar to the German Kobold. 

Early Depictions: Goblins were frequently portrayed as a type of house spirit, like the less malicious hobgoblin who would do chores in exchange for food. Some myths, such as those from the Icelandic Yule Lads, feature goblins with specific mischievous habits. 

The Modern Evolution

Tolkien's Influence: J.R.R. Tolkien, in works like The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, reimagined goblins as a distinct race of ugly, evil humanoids, often in conflict with other races.

Fantasy and Games: Following Tolkien, this portrayal of goblins as small, green, and malicious creatures became the standard in fantasy literature and games like Dungeons & Dragons.