Zwerge

Zwerge, singular Zwerg, are a race of diminutive humanoid beings rooted in Germanic folklore and widely adopted in modern fantasy. They are typically described as short, stout, long-lived, and highly skilled in mining, metalworking, and stonecraft. In many traditions they dwell underground or in mountains and caves, guarding treasures and hidden riches. They are often depicted with long beards and a practical, sturdy demeanor.

In European folklore, Zwerge appear in stories across the German-speaking world and neighboring regions, including Alpine cultures. They frequently interact with humans as helpers and tricksters, granting favors or placing curses. The Brothers Grimm collected numerous dwarf tales that reflect motifs of exchange, disguise, and cleverness.

In Norse and broader Germanic myth, dwarves (dvergar) are legendary smiths who forge powerful artifacts and crafts. Their knowledge of metalwork, gems, and runes is central to their identity. Dwarves are typically long-lived rather than immortal, and their societies are often organized into clans or guild-like groups of craftsmen.

In modern fantasy, Zwerge are a familiar archetype and are prominent in works such as Tolkien’s Middle-earth, where dwarves are resilient, steadfast miners and smiths with distinctive cultures and strong loyalties to kin and clan. They appear across novels, games, and films, frequently emphasizing craftsmanship, treasure, and enmity or uneasy alliances with other races such as elves and humans.

The term Zwerge is the standard German designation for this archetype; in English texts the form dwarves is used, and similar beings appear in many other cultures under names such as dwarfs or dwergar in different languages.