Goblin, << GOB luhn, >> in European folklore, is a small household creature or spirit. Many different kinds of goblins appear in the folklore of different regions of Europe. Like elves, goblins are often depicted as tiny people. Some goblins have the ability to change into objects or animals. They like to give advice and can sometimes tell the future. However, they are temperamental and sensitive to taunts and insults. If offended, they may break things or cause other problems.
Several kinds of goblins are known from German folktales. Kobolds are helpful goblins that work in secret at night. They are called brownies in English folklore. These goblins will do work for a family if provided with food and as long as the family does not try to discover them. Another goblin of German folklore, called the Klabautermann, lives on ships. He helps sailors and often appears to warn them when the ship is in danger.
In England, goblins called Knockers live in underground mines and are skilled at metalworking. Lutins are goblins of French folklore. They are charmed by human children, but they also have a mischievous side. If angered, they may tangle a horse’s mane or ride the horse to exhaustion at night.
A goblin may also be a restless, mischievous spirit. These beings are also called pixies, Wichtel, or poltergeists. They can be playful or spiteful. They may break furniture, knock on walls in the night, turn milk sour, and cause other mischief. A hobgoblin is a type of goblin that is often friendly and helpful.
Goblins may have originated from household spirits called penates. In ancient Rome, these spirits were worshiped and given offerings of food and drink (see Lares and penates ).
