Dwarves

Dwarves are another of the familiar fantasy races, often used by fantasy authors.

Dwarves most often act as a "hard worker" race. The main emphasis in their culture is on crafts, making artifacts, mining ores and metals, and construction.

They are not characterized by intrigues and complex multi-move combinations - they are more straightforward. At the same time, this is often combined with frugality, which often turns into stinginess.

The appearance of gnomes is quite stereotyped - short stature, stocky build, long beards. The culture is as patriarchal as possible. Female gnomes are rarely present in the plot, and it is often not even clear what they look like.

Combat skills are built mainly on strength, durability and endurance. Combined with the quality of the weapons and armor that the gnomes make for themselves, this makes the gnomes a kind of “tanks” who feel best in defense.

Much of the battle tactics is built on close cooperation and mutual assistance - the gnomes gather in close-knit units and meet the enemy with a formation of shields. Such a squad creates much more problems for the enemy than several of the most skilled fighters acting alone. And if the situation takes place in a closed space (for example, on a city street or in a narrow underground passage), then several gnomes generally become an insurmountable obstacle even for an enemy that is superior in number.

Traditionally used weapons are axes, hammers and shields. Thanks to the power of the gnomes, the weapon reaches its maximum potential. At the same time, you can ignore the lack of great agility and speed, which are usually not characteristic of gnomes. Of course, it is not entirely clear how two-handed axes, which are often a favorite weapon, can be used in a limited space without fear of hitting walls, ceilings and their fellows. But this is already an established cliche (along with elf bows and human swords), which is used by the vast majority of authors.

The magic that dwarves use is usually also tied to protection. Usually it is something related to earth or metal magic. Often gnomes do not know magic at all or do not trust it. Then it is replaced by high-quality weapons, artifacts, equipment and even firearms.

Given the traditional qualities of gnomes, it is very rare to find a protagonist from this race. Still, the main character is usually independent and tall. individual fighting qualities or magical abilities. This does not fit well with the qualities of dwarves, who are more focused on working in a squad and slowly but surely developing strength.

On the other hand, these same qualities make gnomes good party members for the hero. They will protect your back in battle, help with weapons and, if necessary, provide time to retreat. In addition, a gnome can be part of a humorous line, when the contrast between the main character and his companions with a grumpy and simple-minded gnome is played out to the maximum.

Dwarves most often act on the side of good or as a neutral race. This allows them to stand on the side of the conflict or come to the aid of the defending side. However, they rarely act as attackers.

In general, gnomes are rarely the center of the plot of fantasy books. But their presence in the plot diversifies the created world.