House elves

[potioncat]

No: HPFGUIDX 160293


> Dragonkeeper wrote:
> I'm reading the Goblet of Fire and the more I read about House Elves
> (although they seem more like a cross between gnomes and goblins). I
> know they are servants and they enjoy what they do, despite who owns
> them. I am more fascinated with the linking history between the two
> groups. It would make a fascinating story within itself.



Potioncat:
Have you ever read the "Shoemaker and the Elves"? I think that story is 
a good basis. Little elves come by night and make shoes for a poor 
shoemaker. He becomes well off because of their work and repays them by 
giving them new clothes. Once they're given the gift of clothes, they 
leave. 

I think Brownies are similar. They perform tasks for the house. It 
seems in both cases the wee folk come of their own choosing and leave 
after being given a gift.

Brownies in the GSUSA get their name from these little creatures. 
(Being a Brownie did not make my daughter more interested in performing 
chores.)