House-elves are magical creatures found in various works of literature, most notably in the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling. They are depicted as small, humanoid beings with large ears and a strong sense of loyalty. House-elves serve wizarding families, performing household tasks and chores, often without pay. Their servitude is tied to the family they serve, and they can only be freed if presented with clothes. In addition to Harry Potter, house-elves appear in other fantasy literature, often embodying themes of servitude and freedom. They typically possess unique magical abilities, such as teleportation and healing, which set them apart from other magical beings. Their roles often highlight social hierarchies and the complexities of loyalty and independence.