I don't accept they are fictional characters in the true sense of the word. I know they don't exist, however they are more accurately described as cultural characters. Their existence probably pre-dates writing. While they can look however anyone wants them to, I was curious if anyone was aware of how they were portrayed in early medieval times, or earlier. Searching on the internet throws up a large number of fan sites with little historical content. Just a mild interest.
"Australian Fairy Tales", by James Hume-Cook, my great grand-father. Illustration by Christian Yandell Spoiler: Water fairy