Elves, fae, and fairies—you’ve likely come across these mystical, magical creatures in countless books, films, and games. Now you're curious—what exactly are these creatures, and how do they differ? What makes an elf an elf, or a fairy a fairy? And what’s the difference between a fairy and a fae?
Originally, "fae" (a French word) and "fairies" were used to describe any type of mythical or legendary being similar to fairies. However, in modern times, thanks to writers and games like Dungeons & Dragons, these terms have evolved to have more specific meanings rather than being general terms for all magical creatures.
But why two different words if they both used to mean all kinds of magical creatures?
The word "faerie" was influenced by "Peris," winged angelic beings in Persian mythology, and was popularized in the time of Queen Elizabeth I, notably in Edmund Spenser's poem *The Faerie Queene*. On the other hand, "fae" either comes from the Latin word "fata" (meaning "fate") or the French word "faer" (meaning "to enchant"). It was first used in French in the 12th century.
In contrast to "fae" and "faerie," elves are specific mythical creatures that originated in Norse mythology with Germanic roots. In Norse mythology, there were two types of elves: dark elves, who were malevolent and lived underground, and light elves, who were connected to Odin and considered benevolent. Light elves had healing powers and were known for their extensive medical knowledge, especially in herbal remedies. They were also skilled artisans, celebrated for their craftsmanship in metalwork and other arts, often creating objects with magical properties.
"Fae" still refers to various types of magical beings. Later on I will explore all the types of fae in a separate article.
For now, you can know that one type of fae is the faerie!
After the word "fairy" lost its original meaning as a term for all mythical creatures, it came to refer to mischievous, playful sprites that enjoyed tricking children. Though they could be powerful, and at times wicked, they were mostly seen as chaotic. Their roots can be traced to Medieval Frankish and Bretonic romances, where they appeared as magical witches with healing abilities. And a person was able to repel the wicked ones using specific enchantments and materials like iron, charms, jewelry, or horseshoes.
In modern literature, fairies are often depicted as miniature humanoid beings with wings and the ability to fly. They can change form and appearance at will, sometimes appearing as ethereal lights or humanoid figures. Various types of fairies are tied to different aspects of nature, such as garden fairies or lavender fairies, and they typically inhabit hidden realms or enchanted lands separate from the human world.
Fairies are generally without gender, though they may choose to present as masculine or feminine. Their involvement in human lives varies greatly, often depending on their individual nature or past experiences with humans. They have the ability to bestow enchantments, hexes, gifts, or warnings on humans, either offering protection and comfort or causing harm and mischief.
In the 1500s, the word "elf" began to describe small, mischievous creatures believed to cause nightmares by sitting on sleeping humans. They were also said to steal human babies, replacing them with their own sickly offspring.
Then, J.R.R. Tolkien redefined elves in his works, almost reverting them to their Norse roots, but adding new elements. Tolkien's elves were tall, with long (often dark) hair and exceptional beauty. They had pointed ears but no beards. Both male and female elves shared equal strength, wisdom, and superior senses. They did not age and were often portrayed as living in natural environments like mountains or secluded valleys.
Tolkien’s elves often took on roles such as alchemists, healers, enchanters, wizards, and sages. They practiced a nature-based religion and could communicate with animals and plants. Like in Norse mythology, Tolkien’s elves were master craftsmen.
In many stories, elves are depicted as withdrawing from human society, seeing humans as impulsive, ignorant, and violent.
No, fairies and elves are two different types of supernatural beings.
No, elves do not have wings and cannot fly. In fact, not all fairies have wings, though they can often fly with or without them.
The only connection between leprechauns, fairies, and elves is that they are all supernatural beings.
No. Unfortunately—or fortunately, depending on your perspective—they are not real.
Hi there! We're Chris and Sheila, an artistic pair from distant corners of the globe—one from Iran and the other from the Falkland Islands!
Passionate about sci-fi and fantasy, we’re now digital nomads on a quest to write our debut novels. Join us as we explore the world and beyond!
