While there is no certain consensus for when and where goblins emerged as figures in folklore, most ascribe their conception to some point within Europe's middle ages. Variations of goblins come from as widespread as Zimbabwe and France, though they are believed to be primarily of Germanic and British origin.  They have captured imaginations for centuries because their characters are endlessly capacious. Goblins can range from mischievous to malignant, charismatic to foul. Usually associated with the natural world and dark, earthy places, goblins find their niche in many a story. They share traits with other fay creatures from myth such as kobolds, red caps, gnomes, etc, and populate stories alongside these mystical figures. Goblins themselves are remarkable versatile and have emerged in ancient folklore and oral traditions, literature as varied as Goblin Market and Lord of the Rings, and contemporary video/board games such as D&D and World of Warcraft. Critics suggest goblins are the embodiment of many antisemitic tropes from their association with stinginess/monetary dishonesty and their frequent portrayal with large, hooked noses. Many have found issues with JK Rowling's goblin bankers in the Harry Potter series because of this problematic portrayal. 

By Sasha Green '26