What is a Gnome?

If you're going to make a game about something, it seems evident that you must first define that thing. And so, I ask: What is a gnome?

Author's note: This was intended to be a quick five minute post and it dragged out into multiple hours of reading and research. Such is life. If you want to know why I went down this rabbit hole, see the previous post

Historical Context

Gnomes originated in ancient Greece, as a type of Daimon, or divine guardian spirit. Ancient depictions of gnomes as earth spirits rendered them with the properties of their element: small, gnarled old men with rough dark skin, sometimes deformed or hunched. The greek gnomes were regarded as guardians of the land, and revered by farmers with offerings, songs and dances. Depictions were found on pottery and frescoes, and the mentions of gnomes in cultural writings described them as embodying wisdom and mischief.

Romans continued the representation of gnomes as spirits of the place, inhabiting various natural features and landmarks. In the Germanic tradition, the Gnomes took on an impish appearance and were regarded as playful tricksters. Scandinavian folklore treated gnomes as small bearded men who inhabited barns and gardens, bringing good fortune to those who treated them well. Other medieval gnomes had them guarding underground treasures.

Gnomes were popularized throughout europe by Swiss alchemist Paracelsus who described the gnomes' ability to move through the earth as though it were water. The iconic "garden gnome" first cropped up in 17th century Italy. By the 1800's they were expensive pieces of garden art, but in the early 20th century most garden shows banned the statues as they were regarded as "common."

Gnomes are typically ascribed the following characteristics: - wisdom - protection - good luck - crafstmanship - particularly working with metals and gems - mischief

Contemporary gnomes.

Gnomes have made many appearances in literature and pop culture during the 20th and early 21st Centuries, including in Tolkien's The Hobbit, Pratchett's Discworld series, they are slaves in Narnia and underground businessmen in Oz. Rowling treats them as garden pests.

In the Forgotten Realms lore they are shy and unambitious, but intelligent and innately curious. This led some to explore deep lost ruins or conduct dangerous research, often leading to an untimely demise.

World of Warcraft depicts its gnomes as renknowned mechanics, engineers and technicians, that are somewhat blind to history and tradition. Their obsession with developing radical technology and innovation, also often leading to mishap and misfortune.

So what will my gnomes be like?

For me, these last two tend to be the way I think of gnomes. That said, I really want to avoid the trap of just stealing Warcraft's gnomes. From a look and feel perspective, I kind of like them being weird little shrivelled guys (and gals) with beards. Pointy hats may stay, and we'll also add the flat, cylindrical hats of the traditional germanic miner's uniform because why not.

The question in my mind is how to balance the natural, garden protector against the mad scientist vision. Perhaps exploring that liminal space will be essential to the first iteration of the game.