Dampé



Dampé the Gravekeeper (ダンペイ, Danpei) is a reoccurring character in The Legend of Zelda who often works as a gravekeeper. The origin of his name is very likely a play off of Dante Alighieri, the author/protagonist of the Divine Comedy.

Ocarina of Time
Dampé lives, or rather lived, in a shack in Kakariko Graveyard in Ocarina of Time. His duty was simply to look after the graveyard, however he also ran a graveyard tour, in which he would dig for treasure at any location asked of him. This activity is known as "Dampe's Heartpounding Gravedigging Tour".

Dampé died during Link's seven-year disappearance. However his ghost could be found in his crypt. He would challenge Link to a race of sorts, and reward him with his favorite treasure, should he succeed. That treasure was the trusty Hookshot. Beating him in the race would also warrant a Heart Piece. After obtaining the Hookshot, it can be used on a torch to cut a few seconds off the clock in the race. It is also interesting to note that Dampé's grave was connected to the famous Windmill Hut, and within Ocarina of Time's game engine, it bore the same title of '?'.

Majora's Mask
Dampé appears again in Majora's Mask as the gravekeeper for the Ikana Graveyard. On the third day he can be found underground, searching for the Royal Family's treasure. He will ask Link for help, as he can not see well in the darkness.

Four Swords Adventures
In Four Swords Adventures Dampé lives in the swamp, near the graveyard. He will share information about the Dark Mirror with the four Links.

The Minish Cap
Dampé is also featured in The Minish Cap. He lives in a house in the Royal Valley and tends to the graveyard

Quote from The Minish Cap Dampé figurine:

"The gravedigger at the cemetery. They say he has the power to speak with the dead. He fuses the Kinstones he digs up with the local ghosts."

A gravedigger who is also named Dampé also appears in the Ikana Graveyard in Majora's Mask.