Goblins
The hot-headed troublemakers of the Lower Elements.
Goblins are a diminutive and brutish fairy race within the People of the Earth, typically serving as low-ranking criminals or mercenaries. Unlike many other fairy species that rely on magic or stealth, goblins are known for their aggressive and often reckless behavior, frequently clashing with the LEP (Law Enforcement Authority) rather than contributing to its infrastructure.
- Primary Skill
- Brute Force and Intimidation
Lore & Background
Goblins are generally quick to resort to violence and are often found on the wrong side of the law. They have little interest in engineering or technology, preferring to use their strength and numbers to overwhelm opponents. Their relationship with humans is almost entirely adversarial, as they are more likely to attack or rob humans than cooperate with them. Goblins are not known for creating advanced gadgets; such technologies are developed by centaurs like Foaly or other fairy races. However, they are fully capable of speech and complex communication, and not limited to simple grunts or gestures.
In Their Own Story
The air inside the workshop smelled of ozone and hot solder. Ned adjusted his goggles, the lenses magnifying the microscopic circuit board he was calibrating. With a steady hand that betrayed no tremor despite the chaos outside, he flipped a switch. The hum of the machine deepened into a low thrum, a sound that vibrated through the floorboards. 'It's ready,' he muttered to himself, a small smile playing on his lips as the holographic display flickered to life, showing the perfect trajectory for their escape.
Reader's Guide
Goblins operate within a meritocratic hierarchy based on technical skill and innovation rather than lineage or brute strength. The most skilled engineers often hold significant sway in LEP operations, designing the very tech that enforces fairy law. Their primary goal is the advancement of technology and the maintenance of the Lower Elements' infrastructure. They are driven by curiosity and a desire to solve complex problems, making them invaluable assets during crises involving human interference or magical anomalies. Key members include Ned, who became a trusted ally to Artemis Fowl after being rescued from captivity, demonstrating that goblins value competence over species loyalty. Other unnamed goblins serve as technicians for the LEP's Mulch Diggums division and various underground facilities. In the conflict between humans and fairies, goblins act as the bridge between magic and machinery. They often find themselves in the middle of these conflicts, forced to choose sides based on who offers the best intellectual challenge or resources.
Did You Know?
- Goblins are not responsible for creating advanced LEP gadgets; those are invented by centaurs such as Foaly.
- Despite their lack of personal interest in engineering, goblins benefit from Underground technology that generally surpasses surface human capabilities.
- Ned is a dwarf, not a goblin, and he does form a genuine friendship with Artemis Fowl II in the canon.
- Goblins are fully capable of speech and complex communication, not just simple grunts and gestures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the Goblins in the Artemis Fowl series?
Goblins are a diminutive fairy race renowned for their exceptional engineering skills and technological genius rather than magical abilities. They serve as the primary builders of advanced machinery and infrastructure within the Lower Elements society.
What specific roles do Goblins play in the fairy world?
They function as the backbone of technological development, designing everything from sophisticated surveillance systems to powerful weaponry for the LEP and private contractors. Their expertise makes them indispensable for maintaining the security and functionality of the underground civilization.
Who is the most famous Goblin character?
Ned is the most prominent Goblin, known for his loyalty to Artemis Fowl and his role as a skilled mechanic who helps maintain the Fowl family's stolen fairy technology. He frequently appears alongside Captain Holly Short as a trusted ally in various missions.
How do Goblins differ from other fairy species?
Unlike many fairies who rely on ancient magic or stealth, Goblins thrive in workshops and laboratories where they apply their intellect to create complex mechanical solutions. Their society is defined by industry and innovation instead of mystical traditions.
Are Goblins still active in the current timeline?
Yes, Goblins remain an active and vital faction within the Lower Elements, continuing to support the LEP and private interests with their unmatched technical capabilities. Their ongoing contributions ensure the fairy world's technology remains superior to human standards.