History of Elf in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 26, 2024

Elves are humanoid supernatural beings found in Germanic folklore, particularly North Germanic mythology. They are mentioned in significant literary works like the Poetic Edda and Snorri Sturluson's Prose Edda, contributing to their enduring presence in folklore and fantasy.

1924: Publication of "The King of Elfland's Daughter"

"The King of Elfland's Daughter", a pioneering fantasy novel by Lord Dunsany, was published in 1924.

1967: J.R.R. Tolkien's Influence on Elf Representation

In 1967, J.R.R. Tolkien, author of The Lord of the Rings, suggested the use of the German term "Elb" in translations of works featuring elves.

1972: German Translation of "The Lord of the Rings"

The 1972 German translation of "The Lord of the Rings" adopted the term "Elb", as suggested by Tolkien, contributing to its resurgence in German.

1974: Survey on Belief in Elves and Ghosts in Iceland

Erlendur Haraldsson conducted a survey in 1974 which yielded similar results to the later 2006-2007 study, indicating a significant openness to the existence of elves and ghosts among Icelanders.

2006: Study on Belief in Elves and Ghosts in Iceland

In 2006, the University of Iceland conducted a study that showed many Icelanders were open to the possibility of elves and ghosts existing.

2007: Study on Belief in Elves and Ghosts in Iceland

The University of Iceland's study on belief in elves and ghosts continued into 2007, revealing that Icelanders were more open to such phenomena compared to other nations.