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Gandalf

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Gandalf is a central protagonist in the literary works of J.R.R. Tolkien.

Gandalf600ppx
Gandalf600ppx

He appears in the novels *The Hobbit* and *The Lord of the Rings*. Gandalf is a member of the Istari, which is an order of wizards sent to Middle-earth. While he possesses great magical power, he primarily influences the world through persuasion and encouragement. He serves as a vital guide for the heroes of the story. His mission is to counter the power of the Dark Lord, Sauron. To do this, he must help ensure the destruction of the One Ring.

As a member of the Maiar, Gandalf is an immortal spirit from the realm of Valinor. In his youth in the West, he was known as Olórin. He was one of the wisest of the Maiar and lived in the gardens of Irmo. He also received tutelage from Nienna, the patron of mercy. When the Valar decided to send the Istari to Middle-earth, Manwë proposed Olórin for the task. Although Olórin initially feared he was too weak to face Sauron, Manwë insisted he go. To remain humble, the spirit took the physical form of an aged man.

BakshiGandalf
BakshiGandalf

Gandalf's identity is deeply connected to the element of fire. He is the bearer of Narya, also known as the Ring of Fire. This ring of power contains a red stone to provide aid and comfort. His connection to fire is also seen in his love for fireworks. He uses them to entertain the hobbits of the Shire. However, he can also wield fire as a weapon during times of great need. This elemental connection defines much of his character and his magical abilities.

Throughout his journey, Gandalf carries many different names. The Elves call him Mithrandir, which means "Grey Pilgrim" or "Grey Wanderer." To the Dwarves, he is Tharkûn, a name meaning "Staff-man" in their language, Khuzdul. In the South, he is known as Incánus, and in the North, he is called Gandalf. His name "Gandalf" actually comes from the Old Norse name Gandálfr, found in the *Völuspá*. This Old Norse name translates to "staff-elf."

Emblema Gandalf
Emblema Gandalf

His physical appearance changes as his status within the Istari order evolves. For most of his time in Middle-earth, he is Gandalf the Grey. He is described as looking aged, with grey hair and a grey cloak. He often leans on a wooden staff as he travels. During the events of *The Lord of the Rings*, he becomes the head of the wizards. This change in rank transforms him into Gandalf the White, also called the White Rider. This transformation occurred after he was killed by a Balrog, an evil spirit-being, in the mines of Moria.

Gwaihir the Eagle rescues Gandalf from Orthanc by Alexander Korotich
Gwaihir the Eagle rescues Gandalf from Orthanc by Alexander Korotich

Gandalf's history involves several major quests and political movements. In *The Hobbit*, he assists thirteen dwarves and Bilbo Baggins in their quest to retake the Lonely Mountain from the dragon Smaug. He later helps form the White Council to address the threat of the Necromancer at Dol Guldur. Eventually, he leads the Fellowship of the Ring to destroy the One Ring. After his return as Gandalf the White, he provides guidance to the people of Rohan and Gondor. He ultimately helps crown Aragorn as King before departing Middle-earth forever.

Scholars and writers have often compared Gandalf to significant figures from mythology and literature. Some describe him as an angel incarnate. Others liken him to the Norse god Odin in his "Wanderer" guise. He is also compared to the guide figure Virgil in Dante's *Inferno*. Some scholars even see his return in white as a reflection of the transfiguration of Christ. In this view, he represents the prophet role in the threefold office of prophet, priest, and king.

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File:Emblema Gandalf.svg
Emblema Gandalf.svg
File:Gwaihir the Eagle rescues Gandalf from Orthanc by Alexander Korotich.jpg
Gwaihir the Eagle rescues Gandalf from...
File:Dante and Virgil on the ice of lake Leucocytes.jpg
Dante and Virgil on the ice of lake Leucocytes.jpg
File:BakshiGandalf.JPG
BakshiGandalf.JPG
File:Gandalf600ppx.jpg
Gandalf600ppx.jpg
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