Heinzelmann was a kobold

Kobold

The kobold is a sprite stemming from Germanic mythology and surviving into modern times in German folklore. Although usually invisible, a kobold can materialise in the form of an animal, fire, a human being, and a candle. The most common depictions of kobolds show them as humanlike figures the size...

 in the mythology of northern Germany. According to legend, he was a household spirit of ambivalent nature, similar to Puck

Puck (mythology)

In English folklore, Puck is a mythological fairy or mischievous nature sprite. Puck is also a generalised personification of land spirits. In more recent times, the figure of Robin Goodfellow is identified as a puck.-Etymology:...

 or Robin Goodfellow, who could provide good luck and perform household tasks, but become malicious if not appeased.

Heinzelmann, it was said, usually took the form of a congenial child in red velvet

Velvet

Velvet is a type of woven tufted fabric in which the cut threads are evenly distributed,with a short dense pile, giving it a distinctive feel.The word 'velvety' is used as an adjective to mean -"smooth like velvet".-Composition:...

, but his true form (as he once showed a maid, who lost consciousness) was that of a small child, around four years of age, stabbed and slashed with two swords. Heinzelmann was best known for haunting the castle Hudemühlen, after being discovered in 1584. Legends hold that he haunted it for four years, at first shyly, later conversing and jesting openly with all inhabitants of the house, including the master.

Pop culture

Heinzelmann is an important character in the novel American Gods

American Gods

American Gods is a Hugo and Nebula Award-winning novel by Neil Gaiman. The novel is a blend of Americana, fantasy, and various strands of ancient and modern mythology, all centering on a mysterious and taciturn protagonist, Shadow. It is Gaiman's fourth prose novel, being preceded by Good Omens ,...

by Neil Gaiman

Neil Gaiman

Neil Richard Gaiman born 10 November 1960)is an English author of short fiction, novels, comic books, graphic novels, audio theatre and films. His notable works include the comic book series The Sandman and novels Stardust, American Gods, Coraline, and The Graveyard Book...

.

External links

• Heinzelmann, Sacred Texts website