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{{short description|Fictional character created by J. R. R. Tolkien}}
{{Other uses}}{{Redirect-distinguish|You shall not pass|They shall not pass}}
{{good article}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=August 2025}}
{{Use British English|date=August 2025}}
{{Infobox character
| name        = Gandalf
| image       = <!--NO FAN ART HERE, DO NOT TRY TO REPLACE THIS IMAGE WITHOUT DISCUSSION FIRST, THANKS-->Gandalf from The Trolls are Turned to Stone - J.R.R Tolkien.jpg
| caption     = Detail of Gandalf (right) as [[the Sun]] rises, turning the trolls to stone in one of [[Tolkien's artwork|J.R.R. Tolkien's drawings]] for ''The Hobbit''
| series      = [[J. R. R. Tolkien|Tolkien]]
| first       = ''[[The Hobbit]]'' (1937)
| last        = ''[[Unfinished Tales]]'' (1980)
| aliases     = See [[#Names|Names]]
| race        = [[Maia (Middle-earth)|Maia]]
| affiliation = [[Company of the Ring]]
| species     = [[Maiar|Maia]]
| weapon      = {{Plainlist|
* [[Glamdring]]
* Wizard's staff
* [[Rings of Power#The Three|Narya]]
}}
}}
<!--
       Do not put fan art on this page. Please and thank you.
--><!-- Why, though? -->
'''Gandalf''' is a protagonist in [[J. R. R. Tolkien]]'s novels ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]''. He is a [[Wizards (Middle-earth)|wiz<!--Don't try to make jokes here, you will only get blocked from editing-->ard]], one of the Istari order, and the leader of the [[Company of the Ring]]. <!--1. Names-->Tolkien took the name "Gandalf" from the [[Old Norse]] [[Dvergatal|"Catalogue of Dwarves" (''Dvergatal'')]] in the ''Völuspá''.

<!--2. Characteristics-->As a wizard and the bearer of one of the [[Three Rings]], Gandalf has great power, but works mostly by encouraging and persuading. He sets out as Gandalf the Grey, possessing great knowledge and travelling continually. Gandalf is focused on the mission to counter the Dark Lord [[Sauron]] by destroying the [[One Ring]]. He is associated with fire; his ring of power is [[Narya]], the Ring of Fire. As such, he delights in [[fireworks]] to entertain the [[hobbit]]s of [[the Shire]], while in great need he uses fire as a weapon. As one of the [[Maiar]], he is an immortal spirit from [[Valinor]], but his physical body can be killed. 

<!--3. Fictional biography-->In ''The Hobbit'', Gandalf assists the 13 dwarves and the hobbit [[Bilbo Baggins]] with [[Quests in Middle-earth|their quest]] to retake the [[Lonely Mountain]] from [[Smaug]] the dragon, but leaves them to urge the '''White<!--MOS:BOLD: and see Talk:Gandalf before editing--> Council''' to expel Sauron from his fortress of [[Dol Guldur]]. In the course of the quest, Bilbo finds a magical ring. The expulsion succeeds, but in ''The Lord of the Rings'', Gandalf reveals that Sauron's retreat was only a feint, as he soon reappeared in [[Mordor]]. Gandalf further explains that, after years of investigation, he is sure that Bilbo's ring is the One Ring that Sauron needs to dominate the whole of Middle-earth. The [[Council of Elrond]] creates the Fellowship of the Ring, with Gandalf as its leader, to defeat Sauron by destroying the Ring. He takes them south through the Misty Mountains, but is killed fighting a [[Balrog]], an evil spirit-being, in the underground realm of [[Moria (Middle-earth)|Moria]]. After he dies, he is sent back to Middle-earth to complete his mission as Gandalf the White. He reappears to three of the Fellowship and helps to counter the enemy in [[Rohan (Middle-earth)|Rohan]], then in [[Gondor]], and finally at the [[Black Gate (Middle-earth)|Black Gate]] of Mordor, in each case largely by offering guidance. When victory is complete, he crowns Aragorn as King before leaving Middle-earth for <!--space is British English-->ever to return to Valinor.

<!--4. Concept and creation-->Tolkien once described Gandalf as an [[angel]] incarnate; later, both he and other scholars have likened Gandalf to the [[Norse mythology|Norse god]] [[Odin]] in his "Wanderer" guise. Others have described Gandalf as a guide-figure who assists the protagonists, comparable to the [[Cumaean Sibyl]] who assisted [[Aeneas]] in [[Virgil]]'s ''[[The Aeneid]]'', or to the figure of Virgil in [[Dante]]'s ''[[Inferno (Dante)|Inferno]]''. Scholars have likened his return in white to the [[Transfiguration of Jesus|transfiguration of Christ]]; he is further described as a [[prophet]], representing one element of Christ's [[threefold office]] of prophet, priest, and king, where the other two roles are taken by [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] and [[Aragorn]]. 

<!--5. Adaptations-->The Gandalf character has been featured in radio, television, stage, video game, music, and film adaptations, including [[Ralph Bakshi]]'s [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|1978 animated film]]. His best-known portrayal is by [[Ian McKellen]] in [[Peter Jackson]]'s 2001–2003 ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' film series, where the actor based his acclaimed performance on Tolkien himself. McKellen reprised the role in Jackson's 2012–2014 film series ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The Hobbit]]''.

== Names ==

[[File:Emblema Gandalf.svg|thumb|upright=0.5|[[Cirth|Certh]] [[rune]] no. 19 "G", used by Gandalf as a personal sign or [[seal (emblem)|seal]]]]

=== Etymology ===

Tolkien derived the name ''Gandalf'' from Gandálfr, a [[Norse dwarf|dwarf]] in the [[Völuspá]]'s ''Dvergatal'', a list of dwarf-names.<ref>{{cite book |first=John D. |last=Rateliff |author-link=John D. Rateliff |series=[[The History of The Hobbit]] |volume=2 |title=Return to Bag-End |publisher=[[HarperCollins]] |date=2007 |page=Appendix III |no-pp=true |isbn=978-0-00-725066-0}}</ref> In [[Old Norse]], the name means ''staff-elf''. This is reflected in his name ''Tharkûn'', which is "said to mean 'Staff-man'" in [[Khuzdul]], the [[Languages constructed by J. R. R. Tolkien|language Tolkien invented]] for his [[Dwarves in Middle-earth|Dwarves]].<ref name="Istari" group=T/>

=== In-universe names ===

Gandalf is given several names and epithets in Tolkien's writings. [[Faramir]] calls him the Grey Pilgrim, and reports Gandalf as saying, "Many are my names in many countries. ''Mithrandir''{{efn|Meaning "Grey Pilgrim"}} among the [[Elf (Middle-earth)|Elves]], Tharkûn to the [[Dwarf (Middle-earth)|Dwarves]], [[#Valinor|Olórin I was in my youth in the West]] that is forgotten, in the South Incánus, in the North ''Gandalf''; to [[Rhûn|the East]] I go not."<ref group=T>{{harvnb|Tolkien|1954|loc=book 4, ch. 5, "The Window on the West"}}</ref> In an early draft of ''[[The Hobbit]]'', he is called ''Bladorthin'', while the dwarf who was later named [[Thorin Oakenshield]] is named Gandalf.<ref>{{cite book |last=Rateliff |first=John D. |author-link=John D. Rateliff |series=[[The History of The Hobbit]] |volume=1 |title=Mr. Baggins |publisher=[[HarperCollins]] |date=2007 |at=Chapter I(b) |isbn=978-0-00-725066-0}}</ref>

Each [[Wizard (Middle-earth)|Wizard]] is distinguished by the colour of his cloak. For most of his manifestation as a wizard, Gandalf's cloak is grey, hence the names Gandalf ''the Grey'' and Greyhame, from Old English [[wikt:hame|hama]], "cover, skin". ''Mithrandir'' is a name in [[Sindarin]] meaning "Grey Pilgrim" or "Grey Wanderer". Midway through ''The Lord of the Rings'', Gandalf becomes the head of the order of Wizards, and is renamed [[#Gandalf the White|Gandalf the White]]. This change in status (and clothing) introduces another name for the wizard: the White Rider. However, characters who speak Elvish still refer to him as ''Mithrandir''. At times in ''The Lord of the Rings'', other characters address Gandalf by insulting nicknames: Stormcrow, ''Láthspell'' ("Ill-news" in [[Old English]]), and "Grey Fool".<ref name="Istari" group=T/>

== Characteristics ==

Tolkien describes Gandalf as the last of the wizards to appear in [[Middle-earth]], one who "seemed the least, less tall than the others, and in looks more aged, grey-haired and grey-clad, and leaning on a [[Magic (Middle-earth)#Magic items|staff]]".<ref name="Istari" group=T/> Yet the [[Elf (Middle-earth)|Elf]] [[Círdan]] who met him on arrival nevertheless considered him "the greatest spirit and the wisest" and gave him the Elven [[Three Rings|Ring of Power]] called [[Narya]], the Ring of Fire, containing a "red" stone for his aid and comfort. Tolkien explicitly links Gandalf to the element [[Fire (classical element)|fire]] later in the same essay:<ref name="Istari" group=T/>

{{blockquote|Warm and eager was his spirit (and it was enhanced by the ring Narya), for he was the Enemy of [[Sauron]], opposing the fire that devours and wastes with the fire that kindles, and succours in wanhope and distress; but his joy, and his swift wrath, were veiled in garments grey as ash, so that only those that knew him well glimpsed the flame that was within. Merry he could be, and kindly to the young and simple, yet quick at times to sharp speech and the rebuking of folly; but he was not proud, and sought neither power nor praise ... Mostly he journeyed tirelessly on foot, leaning on a staff, and so he was called among [[Man (Middle-earth)|Men]] of the North Gandalf 'the [[Elf (Middle-earth)|Elf]] of the Wand'. For they deemed him (though in error) to be of Elven-kind, since he would at times work wonders among them, loving especially the beauty of fire; and yet such marvels he wrought mostly for mirth and delight, and desired not that any should hold him in awe or take his counsels out of fear. ... Yet it is said that in the ending of the task for which he came he suffered greatly, and was slain, and being sent back from death for a brief while was clothed then in white, and became a radiant flame (yet veiled still save in great need).<ref name="Istari" group=T/>}}

== Fictional biography ==

=== Valinor ===

In [[Valinor]], Gandalf, a [[Maiar|Maia]], was named ''Olórin'',<ref name="Istari" group=T/> one of the people of the Vala [[Manwë (Middle-earth)|Manwë]], and the wisest of the Maiar. He was closely associated with two other Valar: Irmo, in whose gardens he lived, and [[Nienna]], the patron of mercy, who gave him tutelage. When the Valar decided to send the [[Wizard (Middle-earth)|Wizards (Istari)]] across the [[Belegaer|Great Sea]] to [[Middle-earth]] to assist those who opposed [[Sauron]], Manwë proposed Olórin. Olórin initially begged to be excused, declaring he was too weak and feared Sauron; Manwë replied that that was all the more reason for him to go.<ref name="Istari" group=T>{{harvnb|Tolkien|1980|loc=part 4, ch. 2, "The Istari"}}</ref>

As a Maia, Gandalf was an angelic being in human form, in service to the Creator ([[Eru Ilúvatar]]) and the Creator's '[[Secret Fire]]'. He took on the specific form of an old man as a sign of his [[humility]]. His role was to advise but never to attempt to match Sauron's strength. It might be, too, that the lords of Middle-earth would be more receptive to the advice of a humble old man.<ref name="Istari" group=T/>

=== Middle-earth ===

The wizards arrived in [[Middle-earth]] separately, early in the [[Third Age]]; Gandalf was the last, landing in the Havens of Mithlond. He seemed the oldest and least in stature, but [[Círdan]] the Shipwright felt that he was the greatest on their first meeting in the Havens, and gave him [[Narya]], the Ring of Fire. [[Saruman]], the chief Wizard, learned of the gift and resented it. Gandalf hid the ring well.<ref name="Istari" group=T/> His relationship with Saruman was strained. The Wizards were forbidden to use force to dominate, though Saruman increasingly disregarded this.<ref name="Istari" group=T/>

==== The White Council ====

{{redirect|White Council|the unreleased video game|The Lord of the Rings: The White Council|other uses}}

Gandalf suspected early on that an evil presence, the [[Sauron#The Necromancer of Dol Guldur|Necromancer of Dol Guldur]], was Sauron. He went to [[Dol Guldur]]<ref name="AppB" group=T>{{harvnb|Tolkien|1955|loc=Appendix B}}</ref> to discover the truth, but the Necromancer withdrew, only to return with greater force,<ref name="AppB" group=T/> and the White Council was formed in response.<ref name="AppB" group=T/> [[Galadriel]] had hoped Gandalf would lead the council, but he refused, declining to be bound by any but the Valar who had sent him. Saruman was chosen instead, as the most knowledgeable about Sauron's work in the [[Second Age]].<ref name="Of the Rings of Power" group=T>{{harvnb|Tolkien|1977|loc="Of the Rings of Power and the Third Age"}}</ref><ref name="Istari" group=T/>

Gandalf returned to Dol Guldur "at great peril" and learned that the Necromancer was indeed Sauron. The following year a White Council was held, and Gandalf urged that Sauron be driven out.<ref name="AppB" group=T/> Saruman, however, reassured the Council that Sauron's evident effort to find the [[One Ring]] would fail, as the Ring would long since have been carried by the river [[Anduin]] to the Sea; and the matter was allowed to rest. But Saruman began actively seeking the Ring near the [[Gladden Fields]] where [[Isildur]] had been killed.<ref name="Of the Rings of Power" group=T/><ref name="Istari" group=T/>

==== The Quest of Erebor ====

"[[The Quest of Erebor]]" in ''[[Unfinished Tales]]'' elaborates upon the story behind ''[[The Hobbit]]''. It tells of a chance meeting between Gandalf and [[Thorin Oakenshield]], a [[Dwarf (Middle-earth)|Dwarf]]-king in exile, in the ''Prancing Pony'' inn at [[Bree (Middle-earth)|Bree]]. Gandalf had for some time foreseen the coming war with [[Sauron]], and knew that the North was especially vulnerable. If [[Rivendell]] were to be attacked, the [[Dragon (Middle-earth)|dragon]] [[Smaug]] could cause great devastation. He persuaded Thorin that he could help him regain his lost territory of [[Erebor]] from Smaug, and so the quest was born.<ref group=T>{{harvnb|Tolkien|1980|loc=part 3, 3, "[[The Quest of Erebor]]"}}</ref>

=== ''The Hobbit'' ===

Gandalf meets with [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]] in the opening of ''The Hobbit''. He arranges for a tea party, to which he invites the thirteen dwarves, and thus arranges the travelling group central to the narrative. Gandalf contributes the map and key to Erebor to assist the quest.<ref group=T>{{harvnb|Tolkien|1937|loc=ch. 1, "An Unexpected Party"}}</ref> On this quest Gandalf acquires the sword, ''[[List of Middle-earth weapons and armour#Glamdring|Glamdring]]'', from the [[Troll (Middle-earth)|trolls']] treasure hoard.<ref group=T>{{harvnb|Tolkien|1937|loc=ch. 2, "Roast Mutton"}}</ref> [[Elrond]] informs them that the sword was made in [[Gondolin]], a city long ago destroyed, where Elrond's father lived as a child.<ref group=T>{{harvnb|Tolkien|1937|loc=ch. 3, "A Short Rest"}}</ref>

After escaping from the [[Misty Mountains]] pursued by goblins and [[Warg (Middle-earth)|warg]]s, the party is carried to safety by the [[Eagle (Middle-earth)|Great Eagles]].<ref group=T>{{harvnb|Tolkien|1937|loc="Out of the Frying-Pan into the Fire"}}</ref> Gandalf then persuades [[Beorn]] to house and provision the company for the trip through [[Mirkwood]]. Gandalf leaves the company before they enter Mirkwood, saying that he had pressing business to attend to.<ref group=T>{{harvnb|Tolkien|1937|loc= ch. 7, "Queer Lodgings"}}</ref>

He turns up again before the walls of Erebor disguised as an old man, revealing himself when it seems the Men of [[Esgaroth]] and the [[Mirkwood Elves]] will fight Thorin and the dwarves over Smaug's treasure. The Battle of Five Armies ensues when hosts of goblins and wargs attack all three parties.<ref group=T>{{harvnb|Tolkien|1937|loc=ch. 17, "The Clouds Burst"}}</ref> After the battle, Gandalf accompanies Bilbo back to [[the Shire]], revealing at Rivendell what his pressing business had been: Gandalf had once again urged the council to evict Sauron, since quite evidently Sauron did not require the [[One Ring]] to continue to attract evil to Mirkwood.<ref group=T>{{harvnb|Tolkien|1937|loc="The Last Stage"}}</ref> Then the Council "put[s] forth its power" and drives Sauron from [[Dol Guldur]]. Sauron had anticipated this, and had feigned a withdrawal, only to reappear in [[Mordor]].<ref name="The Council of Elrond" group=T>{{harvnb|Tolkien|1954a|loc=book 2, ch. 2, "[[The Council of Elrond]]"}}</ref>

=== ''The Lord of the Rings'' ===

==== Gandalf the Grey ====

[[File:Gwaihir the Eagle rescues Gandalf from Orthanc by Alexander Korotich.jpg|thumb|upright|[[Gwaihir]] the Eagle rescues Gandalf from [[Orthanc]]. [[Scraperboard]] illustration by [[Alexander Korotich]], 1981]]

Gandalf spent the years between ''The Hobbit'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' travelling [[Middle-earth]] in search of information on [[Sauron]]'s resurgence and [[Bilbo Baggins]]'s mysterious [[One Ring|ring]], spurred particularly by Bilbo's initial misleading story of how he had obtained it as a "present" from [[Gollum]]. During this period, he befriended [[Aragorn]] and became suspicious of [[Saruman]]. He spent as much time as he could in [[the Shire]], strengthening his friendship with Bilbo and [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], Bilbo's orphaned cousin and adopted heir.<ref name="The Council of Elrond" group=T/>

Gandalf returns to the Shire for Bilbo's "eleventy-first" (111th) birthday party, bringing many [[fireworks]] for the occasion. After Bilbo, as a prank on his guests, puts on the ring and disappears, Gandalf urges his old friend to leave the ring to Frodo, as they had planned. Bilbo becomes hostile, accusing Gandalf of trying to steal the ring. Alarmed, Gandalf tells Bilbo he is being foolish. Coming to his senses, Bilbo admits that the ring has been troubling him, and leaves it behind for Frodo as he departs for [[Rivendell]].<ref group=T>{{harvnb|Tolkien|1954a|loc=book 1, ch. 1, "A Long-Expected Party"}}</ref>

Over the next 17 years, Gandalf travels extensively, searching for the truth about the ring. He finds the answer in Isildur's scroll, in the archives of [[Minas Tirith]]. Gandalf searches long and hard for Gollum, often assisted by Aragorn, who eventually captures Gollum. Gandalf questions Gollum, threatening him with fire when he proves unwilling to speak. Gandalf learns that Sauron had imprisoned Gollum in his fortress of [[Barad-dûr]], and tortured him to reveal what he knew of the [[One Ring|Ring]].<ref name="The Council of Elrond" group=T/>

Returning to [[the Shire]], Gandalf confirms his suspicion by throwing the Ring into Frodo's hearth-fire and reading the writing that appears on its surface. He tells Frodo the history of the ring, and urges him to take it to [[Rivendell]], warning of grave danger if he stays in the Shire. Gandalf says he will attempt to return for Frodo's 50th birthday party, to accompany him on the road; and that meanwhile Frodo should arrange to leave quietly, as the servants of Sauron will be searching for him.<ref group=T>{{harvnb|Tolkien|1954a|loc=book 1, ch. 2, "[[The Shadow of the Past]]"}}</ref>

Outside the Shire, Gandalf encounters the wizard [[Radagast the Brown]], who brings the news that the [[Nazgûl]] have ridden out of Mordor—and a request from [[Saruman]] that Gandalf come to [[Isengard]]. Gandalf asks him to send out animals to observe the Nazgûl, and to report to him at Isengard. Gandalf leaves a letter to Frodo (urging his immediate departure) with Barliman Butterbur at the [[Prancing Pony]], and heads towards Isengard. There, Saruman horrifies Gandalf by asking him to help him to obtain and use the Ring. Gandalf refuses, and Saruman imprisons him at the top of [[Orthanc|his tower]]. Gandalf is rescued by [[Gwaihir|Gwaihir the Eagle]], who comes to him as requested via Radagast.<ref name="The Council of Elrond" group=T/>

In [[Rohan (Middle-earth)|Rohan]], Gandalf appeals to King [[Théoden]] for a horse. Théoden, under the influence of Saruman's spy [[Gríma Wormtongue]], tells Gandalf to take any horse he pleases, but to leave quickly. Gandalf meets the great horse [[Middle-earth#Sapient animals|Shadowfax]], who will be his mount and companion. Gandalf reaches the Shire after Frodo has set out. Knowing that Frodo will be heading for Rivendell, Gandalf makes his way there. He learns at Bree that the Hobbits have fallen in with Aragorn. He faces the Nazgûl at [[Weathertop]], escaping after an all-night battle, drawing four of them northwards.<ref name="The Council of Elrond" group=T/> Frodo, Aragorn and company face the remaining five on Weathertop a few nights later.<ref group=T>{{harvnb|Tolkien|1954a|loc=book 1, ch. 11, "A Knife in the Dark"}}</ref> Gandalf reaches Rivendell just before Frodo.<ref name="The Council of Elrond" group=T/>

At Rivendell, Gandalf helps [[Elrond]] drive off the Nazgûl pursuing Frodo, and plays a leading role in the [[Council of Elrond]] as the only person who knows the full history of the Ring. He reveals that Saruman has betrayed them and is in league with Sauron. When it is decided that the Ring has to be destroyed, Gandalf volunteers to accompany Frodo—now the Ring-bearer—in his quest. He persuades Elrond to let Frodo's cousins [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] join the [[Company of the Ring]].<ref name="The Council of Elrond" group=T/>

{{Quote box|
 |quote  = The Balrog reached the bridge. Gandalf stood in the middle of the span, leaning on the staff in his left hand, but in his other hand [[Glamdring]] gleamed, cold and white. His enemy halted again, facing him, and the shadow about it reached out like two vast wings. It raised the whip, and the thongs whined and cracked. Fire came from its nostrils. But Gandalf stood firm. "You cannot pass," he said. The [[Orc (Middle-earth)|orc]]s stood still, and a dead silence fell. "I am a servant of the [[Secret Fire]], wielder of the flame of Anor. You cannot pass. The dark fire will not avail you, flame of [[Utumno|Udûn]]. Go back to the Shadow! You cannot pass."
 |author = [[J. R. R. Tolkien]]
 |source = ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''
 |width  = 40%
 |align  = right
}}

Taking charge of the Company, Gandalf and Aragorn lead the Hobbits and their companions south.<ref group=T>{{harvnb|Tolkien|1954a|loc=book 2, ch.3, "The Ring Goes South"}}</ref> After failing to cross Mount [[Caradhras]] in winter, they cross under the Misty Mountains through the Mines of [[Moria (Middle-earth)|Moria]]. There, they discover that the dwarf colony established by [[Balin (Middle-earth)|Balin]] has been annihilated by [[Orc (Middle-earth)|orcs]]. The Company fights with the orcs and trolls of Moria and escapes them.<ref group=T>{{harvnb|Tolkien|1954a|loc=book 2, ch. 4, "A Journey in the Dark"}}</ref>

At the [[Bridge of Khazad-dûm]], they encounter "Durin's Bane," a fearsome [[Balrog]]. Gandalf faces the Balrog to enable the others to escape. After a brief exchange of blows, Gandalf breaks the bridge beneath the Balrog with his [[Magic (Middle-earth)#Magic items|staff]]. As the Balrog falls, it wraps its whip around Gandalf's legs, dragging him over the edge. Gandalf falls into the abyss, crying "Fly, you fools!".<ref group=T>{{harvnb|Tolkien|1954a|loc=book 2, ch. 5, "The Bridge of Khazad-Dum"}}</ref>

Gandalf and the Balrog fall into a deep lake in Moria's underworld. Gandalf pursues the Balrog through the tunnels for eight days until they climb to the peak of Zirakzigil. Here they fight for two days and nights. The Balrog is defeated and cast down onto the mountainside. Gandalf also dies, and his body lies on the peak while his spirit travels "out of thought and time".<ref name="The White Rider" group=T>{{harvnb|Tolkien|1954|loc=book 3, ch. 5, "The White Rider"}}</ref>

{{anchor|Gandalf the White}}

==== Gandalf the White ====

He is "sent back"{{efn|In ''Letters'', No. 156, Tolkien clearly implies that the "Authority" that sent Gandalf back was above the [[Vala (Middle-earth)|Valar]] (who are bound by [[Arda (Middle-earth)|Arda]]'s space and time, while Gandalf went beyond time). He clearly intends this as an example of [[Eru Ilúvatar|Eru]] intervening to change the course of the world.}} as Gandalf the White, and returns to life on the mountain top. Gwaihir carries him to [[Lothlórien]], where he is healed and re-clothed in white by [[Galadriel]]. He travels to [[Fangorn]] Forest, where he encounters [[Aragorn]], [[Gimli (Middle-earth)|Gimli]], and [[Legolas]]. They mistake him for [[Saruman]]; he stops their attacks and reveals himself.<ref name="The White Rider" group=T/>

They travel to [[Rohan (Middle-earth)|Rohan]], where Gandalf finds that Théoden has been weakened by Wormtongue's influence. He breaks Wormtongue's hold over Théoden, and convinces the king to join the fight against Sauron.<ref group=T>{{harvnb|Tolkien|1954|loc=book 3, ch. 6, "The King of the Golden Hall"}}</ref> Gandalf sets off to gather warriors of the Westfold for the coming battle with Saruman. He arrives just in time to defeat Saruman's army in the [[battle of Helm's Deep]].<ref group=T>{{harvnb|Tolkien|1954|loc=book 3, ch. 7, "Helm's Deep"}}</ref> Gandalf and the King ride to [[Isengard]], which has just been destroyed by [[Treebeard]] and his [[Ent]]s, accompanied by Merry and Pippin.<ref group=T>{{harvnb|Tolkien|1954|loc=book 3, ch. 8, "The Road to Isengard"}}</ref> Gandalf breaks Saruman's staff and expels him from the White Council and the Order of [[Wizard (Middle-earth)|Wizards]]; he takes Saruman's place as head of both. Wormtongue tries to kill Gandalf or Saruman with the ''[[palantír]]'' of Orthanc, but misses both. Pippin retrieves the ''palantír''; Gandalf quickly takes it.<ref group=T>{{harvnb|Tolkien|1954|loc=book 3, ch. 10, "The Voice of Saruman"}}</ref> After leaving Isengard, Pippin takes the ''palantír'' from a sleeping Gandalf, looks into it, and comes face to face with Sauron. Gandalf gives the ''palantír'' to Aragorn and takes the chastened Pippin with him to [[Minas Tirith]] to keep him out of further trouble.<ref group=T>{{harvnb|Tolkien|1954|loc=book 3, ch. 11, "The Palantír"}}</ref>

Gandalf arrives in time to help to arrange the defences of Minas Tirith. His presence is resented by [[Denethor]], the [[Steward of Gondor]]; but when his son [[Faramir]] is gravely wounded in battle, Denethor sinks into despair and madness. Together with Prince Imrahil, Gandalf leads the defenders during the siege of the city. When the forces of [[Mordor]] break the main gate, Gandalf, alone on Shadowfax, confronts the Lord of the Nazgûl. At that moment the Rohirrim arrive, causing the Nazgûl to withdraw. Gandalf is about to pursue, but is stopped by Pippin, who requests his intervention to save Faramir – Denethor in desperation was seeking to burn himself and his son on a funeral pyre. Gandalf saves Faramir (but not Denethor, who immolates himself), and plays no further part in the unfolding [[Battle of the Pelennor Fields]].<ref group=T>{{harvnb|Tolkien|1955|loc=book 5, ch. 1, "Minas Tirith"}}</ref>

{{Quote box|
 |quote  = "This, then, is my counsel," [said Gandalf.] "We have not the Ring. In wisdom or great folly it has been sent away to be destroyed, lest it destroy us. Without it we cannot by force defeat [Sauron's] force. But we must at all costs keep his Eye from his true peril... We must call out his hidden strength, so that he shall empty his land... We must make ourselves the bait, though his jaws should close on us... We must walk open-eyed into that trap, with courage, but small hope for ourselves. For, my lords, it may well prove that we ourselves shall perish utterly in a black battle far from the living lands; so that even if [[Barad-dûr]] be thrown down, we shall not live to see a new age. But this, I deem, is our duty."
 |author = [[J. R. R. Tolkien]]
 |source = ''[[The Return of the King]]''
 |width  = 40%
 |align  = right
}}

After the battle, Gandalf counsels an attack against Sauron's forces at the [[Black Gate (Middle-earth)|Black Gate]], to distract Sauron's attention from Frodo and Sam; they are at that moment scaling [[Mount Doom]] to destroy the Ring. Gandalf and Aragorn lead an army to the Black Gate, meeting the [[Mouth of Sauron|nameless lieutenant of Mordor]], who shows them Frodo's ''[[mithril]]'' shirt and other items from the Hobbits' equipment. Gandalf rejects Mordor's terms of surrender, starting the [[Battle of the Morannon]]. The forces of the West face the full might of Sauron's armies, until the Ring is destroyed in Mount Doom.<ref group=T>{{harvnb|Tolkien|1955|loc=book 5, ch. 10, "The Black Gate Opens"}}</ref> Gandalf leads the Eagles to rescue Frodo and Sam from the erupting mountain.<ref group=T>{{harvnb|Tolkien|1955|loc=book 6, ch. 4, "The Field of Cormallen"}}</ref>

After the war, Gandalf crowns Aragorn as King Elessar, and helps him find a sapling of the [[White Tree of Gondor]].<ref group=T>{{harvnb|Tolkien|1955|loc=book 6, ch. 5, "The Steward and the King"}}</ref> He accompanies the Hobbits back to the borders of [[the Shire]], before leaving to visit [[Tom Bombadil]].<ref group=T>{{harvnb|Tolkien|1955|loc=book 6, ch. 7, "Homeward Bound"}}</ref>

Two years later, Gandalf departs [[Middle-earth]] forever. He boards the Ringbearers' ship in the Grey Havens and sets sail to return across [[Belegaer|the sea]] to the [[Undying Lands]]; with him are his horse Shadowfax and his friends [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], [[Bilbo Baggins|Bilbo]], [[Galadriel]], and [[Elrond]].<ref group=T>{{harvnb|Tolkien|1955|loc=book 6, ch. 9, "The Grey Havens"}}</ref>

== Concept and creation ==

=== Appearance ===

{{multiple image
 | align = right
 | total_width = 378
 | image_style = border:none;
 | image1 = Der Berggeist.jpg
 | caption1 = Tolkien said that ''Der Berggeist'' by [[Josef Madlener]] was the origin of Gandalf.<ref name="Berggeist"/>
 | image2 = Väinämöinen in Sammon puolustus.jpg
 | caption2 = [[Väinämöinen]] as depicted by [[Akseli Gallen-Kallela]] in ''[[The Defense of the Sampo]]'' (1896)
}}

Tolkien's biographer [[Humphrey Carpenter]] relates that Tolkien owned a postcard entitled ''Der Berggeist'' ("the mountain spirit"), which he labelled "the origin of Gandalf".<ref name="Berggeist">{{Cite book |last=Carpenter |first=Humphrey |author-link=Humphrey Carpenter |title=[[J.R.R. Tolkien: A Biography]] |date=1977 |publisher=[[Allen & Unwin]] |location=London, England|isbn=978-0-0492-8037-3 |page=51}}</ref> It shows a white-bearded man in a large hat and cloak seated among boulders in a mountain forest. Carpenter said that Tolkien recalled buying the postcard during his holiday in Switzerland in 1911. Manfred Zimmerman, however, discovered that the painting was by the German artist [[Josef Madlener]] and dates from the mid-1920s. Carpenter acknowledged that Tolkien was probably mistaken about the origin of the postcard.<ref name="zimmerman">{{cite journal |first=Manfred |last=Zimmerman |title=The Origin of Gandalf and Josef Madlener |url=https://dc.swosu.edu/mythlore/vol9/iss4/7 |journal=[[Mythlore]] |publisher=[[Mythopoeic Society]] |location=East Lansing, Michigan |volume=9 |issue=4 |date=1983 |access-date=10 June 2018 |archive-date=12 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612184514/https://dc.swosu.edu/mythlore/vol9/iss4/7/ |url-status=live }}</ref> 

[[Finnish influences on Tolkien|An additional influence]] may have been [[Väinämöinen]], a [[demigod]] and the central character in Finnish [[folklore]] and the [[national epic]] ''[[Kalevala]]'' by [[Elias Lönnrot]].<ref>{{cite encyclopedia |last=Snodgrass |first=Ellen |chapter=Kalevala (Elias Lönnrot) (1836) |title=Encyclopedia of the Literature of Empire |publisher=[[Infobase Publishing]] |location=East Lansing, Michigan| year=2009 |pages=161–162 |isbn=978-1438119069 |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=LXyyYs2cRDcC&pg=PT171}}</ref> Väinämöinen was described as an old and wise man, and he possessed a potent, magical singing voice.<ref name="kansallisbiografia">{{Cite web |last=Siikala |first=Anna-Leena |date=30 July 2007 |title=Väinämöinen |url=https://kansallisbiografia.fi/kansallisbiografia/henkilo/5435 |access-date=29 July 2020 |website=Kansallisbiografia |language=fi |archive-date=26 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200126102812/https://kansallisbiografia.fi/kansallisbiografia/henkilo/5435 |url-status=live }}</ref>

Throughout the early drafts, and through to the first edition of ''The Hobbit'', Bladorthin/Gandalf is described as being a "little old man", distinct from a dwarf, but not of the full human stature that would later be described in ''The Lord of the Rings''. Even in ''The Lord of the Rings'', Gandalf was not tall; shorter, for example, than [[Elrond]]<ref group=T>{{harvnb|Tolkien|1954a|loc=book 2, ch. 1, "Many Meetings".}}</ref> or the other wizards.<ref name="Istari" group=T/>

=== Name ===
When writing ''[[The Hobbit]]'' in the early 1930s Tolkien gave the name ''Gandalf'' to the leader of the [[Dwarf (Middle-earth)|Dwarves]], the character later called [[Thorin Oakenshield]]. The name is taken from the same source as all the other Dwarf names (save [[Balin (Middle-earth)|Balin]]) in ''The Hobbit'': the "[[Norse dwarves#Dvergatal: the list of the Dvergar|Catalogue of Dwarves]]" in the ''[[Völuspá]]''.<ref>{{ME-ref|Solopova|p. 20}}</ref> The [[Old Norse]] name ''{{lang|non|Gandalfr}}'' incorporates the words ''{{lang|non|gandr}}'' meaning "wand", "staff" or (especially in compounds) "[[Magic (paranormal)|magic]]" and ''{{lang|non|álfr}}'' "[[elf]]". The name ''[[Gandalf (Norse mythology)|Gandalf]]'' is found in at least one more place in Norse myth, in the semi-historical [[Heimskringla]], which briefly describes [[Gandalf Alfgeirsson]], a legendary Norse king from eastern Norway and rival of [[Halfdan the Black]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://mcllibrary.org/Heimskringla/ |title=Halfdan the Black Saga (Ch. 1. Halfdan Fights Gandalf and Sigtryg) in Snorri Sturluson, ''Heimskringla: A History of the Norse Kings'', transl. Samuel Laing (Norroena Society, London, 1907) |publisher=mcllibrary.org |access-date=22 March 2018 |quote=The same autumn he went with an army to Vingulmark against King Gandalf. They had many battles, and sometimes one, sometimes the other gained the victory; but at last they agreed that Halfdan should have half of Vingulmark, as his father Gudrod had had it before. |archive-date=6 April 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110406185638/http://mcllibrary.org/Heimskringla/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Gandalf is also the name of a Norse sea-king in [[Henrik Ibsen]]'s second play, ''[[The Burial Mound]]''. The name "Gandolf" occurs as a character in [[William Morris]]' 1896 fantasy novel ''[[The Well at the World's End]]'', along with the horse "Silverfax", adapted by Tolkien as Gandalf's horse "Shadowfax". Morris' book, inspired by Norse myth, is set in a pseudo-[[medieval]] landscape; it deeply influenced Tolkien. The wizard that became Gandalf was originally named ''Bladorthin''.<ref group=T>{{harvnb|Tolkien|1988|p=ix}}</ref>

Tolkien came to regret his ''ad hoc'' use of [[Old Norse]] names, referring to a "rabble of [[Elder Edda|edda]]ic-named dwarves,&nbsp;... invented in an idle hour" in 1937.<ref group=T>{{harvnb|Tolkien|1988|p=452}}</ref> But the decision to use Old Norse names came to have far-reaching consequences in the composition of ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]''; in 1942, Tolkien decided that the work was to be a purported translation from the [[fictional language]] of [[Westron]], and in the English translation [[Old Norse]] names were taken to represent names in the language of [[Dale (Middle-earth)|Dale]].<ref>{{cite web |first=Tom |last=Shippey |author-link=Tom Shippey |url=http://www.nordals.hi.is/shippey.html |publisher=Nordals.hi.is |quote=We know that Tolkien had great difficulty in getting his story going. In my opinion, he did not break through until, on February 9, 1942, he settled the issue of languages |title=Tolkien and Iceland: The Philology of Envy |access-date=11 November 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050830092501/http://www.nordals.hi.is/shippey.html |archive-date=30 August 2005}}</ref> ''Gandalf'', in this setting, is thus a representation in English (anglicised from Old Norse) of the name the Dwarves of Erebor had given to Olórin in the language they used "externally" in their daily affairs, while ''Tharkûn'' is the (untranslated) name, presumably of the same meaning, that the Dwarves gave him in their native [[Khuzdul]] language.<ref group=T>{{harvnb|Tolkien|1975}}</ref>

== Analysis ==

=== Guide ===

Gandalf's role and importance was substantially increased in the conception of ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', and in a letter of 1954, Tolkien refers to Gandalf as an "[[angel]] incarnate".<ref name="letters 156" group=T>{{harvnb|Carpenter|2023|loc=#156 to R. Murray, SJ, November 1954 }}</ref> In the same letter Tolkien states he was given the form of an old man to limit his powers on Earth. Both in 1965 and 1971 Tolkien again refers to Gandalf as an angelic being.<ref group=T>{{harvnb|Carpenter|2023|loc=#268 to Miss A.P. Northey, January 1965 }}</ref><ref group=T>{{harvnb|Carpenter|2023|loc=#325 to R. Green, July 1971 }}</ref>

In a 1946 letter, Tolkien stated that he thought of Gandalf as an "Odinic wanderer".<ref name="letters 107" group=T>{{harvnb|Carpenter|2023|loc=#107 to [[Allen & Unwin]], December 1946 }}</ref> Other commentators have similarly compared Gandalf to the [[Norse mythology|Norse god]] [[Odin]] in his "Wanderer" guise—an old man with one eye, a long white beard, a wide brimmed hat, and a staff,<ref name="Jøn 1997">{{cite thesis |last=Jøn |first=A. Asbjørn |date=1997 |title=An investigation of the Teutonic god Óðinn; and a study of his relationship to J. R.R. Tolkien's character, Gandalf |url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/287195966 |publisher=[[University of New England (United States)|University of New England]] }}</ref><ref name="Burns 2005">{{cite book |first=Marjorie |last=Burns |author-link=Marjorie Burns |title=Perilous Realms: Celtic and Norse in Tolkien's Middle-earth |title-link=Perilous Realms |year=2005 |publisher=[[University of Toronto Press]] |isbn=0-8020-3806-9 |pages=95–101}}</ref> or likened him to [[Merlin]] of [[Matter of Britain#Arthurian cycle|Arthurian legend]] or the [[Jungian archetypes|Jungian archetype]] of the "[[wise old man]]".<ref>{{cite book | last=Lobdell | first=Jared |author-link=Jared Lobdell | title=A Tolkien Compass | publisher=[[Open Court Publishing Company|Open Court Publishing]] | date=1975 | isbn=0-87548-303-8 | page=[https://archive.org/details/tolkiencompass00lobd/page/33 33] | url=https://archive.org/details/tolkiencompass00lobd/page/33 }}</ref>

{| class="wikitable" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border: none;" 
|+ [[Marjorie Burns]]'s comparison of Gandalf and the Norse god Odin<ref name="Burns 2005"/>
|-
! Attribute !! Gandalf !! [[Odin]]
|-
| Accoutrements || "battered hat"<br/>cloak<br/>"thorny staff" || Epithet: "Long-hood"<br/>blue cloak<br/>a staff
|-
| Beard || "the grey", "old man" || Epithet: "Greybeard"
|-
| Appearance || the Istari (Wizards) "in simple guise,<br/>as it were of Men already old<br/>in years but hale in body,<br/>travellers and wanderers"<br/>as Tolkien wrote "a figure of<br/>'the Odinic wanderer'"<ref group=T>{{harvnb|Carpenter|2023|loc=#119 to Allen & Unwin, February 1949 }}</ref> || Epithets: "Wayweary",<br/>"Wayfarer", "Wanderer"
|-
| Power || with his staff || Epithet: "Bearer of the [Magic] Wand"
|-
| [[Eagle (Middle-earth)|Eagles]] || rescued repeatedly<br/>by eagles in ''The Hobbit''<br/>and ''Lord of the Rings'' || Associated with eagles;<br/>escapes from [[Jotunheim]]<br/>back to [[Asgard]] as an eagle
|}

In ''[[The Annotated Hobbit]]'', [[Douglas A. Anderson|Douglas Anderson]] likens Gandalf's role to the ''[[Rübezahl]]'' mountain spirit of German folktales. He states that the figure can appear as "a guide, a messenger, or a farmer", often depicted as "a bearded man with a staff".{{sfn|Tolkien|1937|pp=148–149}}

<gallery mode="packed" widths=150px heights=220px>
File:Georg von Rosen - Oden som vandringsman, 1886 (Odin, the Wanderer).jpg|''[[Odin]], the Wanderer'' by [[Georg von Rosen]], 1886<ref name="Jøn 1997"/> 
File:Rubezahl - deutsche Volksmarchen 1903 (142146889) Bearded Guide with Staff.jpg|The ''[[Rübezahl]]'' as a bearded guide with staff, in a 1903 illustration{{sfn|Tolkien|1937|pp=148–149}}
File:GANDALF.jpg|Gandalf, by 'Nidoart', 2013
</gallery>

The Tolkien scholar Charles W. Nelson described Gandalf as a "guide who .. assists a major character on a journey or quest .. to unusual and distant places". He noted that in both ''The Fellowship of the Ring'' and ''The Hobbit'', Tolkien presents Gandalf in these terms. Immediately after the [[Council of Elrond]], Gandalf tells the [[Fellowship of the Ring (characters)|Fellowship]]:<ref name="Nelson 2002">{{cite journal |last=Nelson |first=Charles W. |title=From Gollum to Gandalf: The Guide Figures in J. R. R. Tolkien's "Lord of the Rings" |journal=[[Journal of the Fantastic in the Arts]] |date=2002 |volume=13 |issue=1 |pages=47–61 |jstor=43308562}}</ref>

{{blockquote|Someone said that intelligence would be needed in the party. He was right. I think I shall come with you.<ref name="Nelson 2002"/>}}

Nelson notes the similarity between this and [[Thorin Oakenshield|Thorin]]'s statement in ''The Hobbit'':<ref name="Nelson 2002"/>

{{blockquote|We shall soon .. start on our long journey, a journey from which some of us, or perhaps all of us (except our friend and counsellor, the ingenious wizard Gandalf) may never return.<ref name="Nelson 2002"/>}}

[[File:Dante and Virgil on the ice of lake Leucocytes.jpg|thumb|Earlier guide figure: [[Virgil]] guides [[Dante]] around the lowest circle of hell in [[Dante]]'s ''[[Inferno (Dante)|Inferno]]''.<ref name="Nelson 2002"/> Painting by [[Gustave Doré]] ]]

Nelson gives as examples of the guide figure the [[Cumaean Sibyl]] who assisted [[Aeneas]] on his journey through the underworld in [[Virgil]]'s tale ''[[The Aeneid]]'', and then the figure of Virgil in [[Dante]]'s ''[[Inferno (Dante)|Inferno]]'', directing, encouraging, and physically assisting Dante as he travels through hell. In English literature, Nelson notes, [[Thomas Malory]]'s ''[[Le Morte d'Arthur]]'' has the wizard Merlin teaching and directing [[King Arthur|Arthur]] to begin his journeys. Given these precedents, Nelson remarks, it was unsurprising that Tolkien should make use of a guide figure, endowing him, like these predecessors, with power, wisdom, experience, and practical knowledge, and "aware[ness] of [his] own limitations and [his] ranking in the order of the great".<ref name="Nelson 2002"/> Other characters who act as wise and good guides include [[Tom Bombadil]], [[Elrond]], [[Aragorn]], [[Galadriel]]—who he calls perhaps the most powerful of the guide figures—and briefly also [[Faramir]].<ref name="Nelson 2002"/>

Nelson writes that there is equally historical precedent for wicked guides, such as [[Edmund Spenser]]'s "evil palmers" in ''[[The Faerie Queene]]'', and suggests that [[Gollum]] functions as an evil guide, contrasted with Gandalf, in ''Lord of the Rings''. He notes that both Gollum and Gandalf are servants of The One, [[Eru Ilúvatar]], in the struggle against the forces of darkness, and "ironically" all of them, good and bad, are necessary to the success of the quest. He comments, too, that despite Gandalf's evident power, and the moment when he faces the [[Nazgûl|Lord of the Nazgûl]], he stays in the role of guide throughout, "never directly confront[ing] his enemies with his raw power."<ref name="Nelson 2002"/>

===Christ-figure===

{{further|Christianity in Middle-earth}}

The critic Anne C. Petty, writing about "[[Allegory]]" in the ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien Encyclopedia]]'', discusses Gandalf's death and reappearance in Christian terms. She cites Michael W. Maher, [[Society of Jesus|S.J.]]: "who could not think of Gandalf's descent into the pits of Moria and his return clothed in white as a death-[[resurrection]] motif?"<ref name="Petty 2013">{{cite encyclopedia |last=Petty |first=Anne C. |editor-last=Drout |editor-first=Michael D. C. |editor-link=Michael D. C. Drout |title=Allegory |encyclopedia=[[J.R.R. Tolkien Encyclopedia|J.R.R. Tolkien Encyclopedia: Scholarship and Critical Assessment]] |year=2013 |orig-year=2007 |publisher=[[Routledge]] |isbn=978-0-415-86511-1 |pages=6–7}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last=Maher |first=Michael W. |editor-last=Chance |editor-first=Jane |editor-link=Jane Chance |chapter='A land without stain': medieval images of Mary and their use in the characterization of Galadriel |title=Tolkien the Medievalist |date=2003 |publisher=[[Routledge]] |page=225 |isbn=9780415289443}}</ref> She at once notes, however, that "such a narrow [allegorical] interpretation" limits the reader's imagination by demanding a single meaning for each character and event.<ref name="Petty 2013"/> Other scholars and theologians have likened Gandalf's return as a "gleaming white" figure to the [[Transfiguration of Jesus|transfiguration of Christ]].<ref>{{cite book |last=Chance |first=Jane |author-link=Jane Chance |title=Tolkien's Art |title-link=Tolkien's Art: 'A Mythology for England' |date=1980 |orig-year=1979 |publisher=[[Papermac]] |isbn=978-0-333-29034-7 |page=42}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last=Rutledge |first=Fleming |author-link=Fleming Rutledge |title=The Battle for Middle-earth: Tolkien's Divine Design in The Lord of the Rings |year=2004 |publisher=[[William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company]] |isbn=978-0-80282-497-4 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=FRiViwMylSUC |pages=157–159 |access-date=23 May 2022 |archive-date=20 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230820125037/https://books.google.com/books?id=FRiViwMylSUC |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=Stucky>{{cite journal |last=Stucky |first=Mark |title=Middle Earth's Messianic Mythology Remixed: Gandalf's Death and Resurrection in Novel and Film |journal=[[Journal of Religion and Popular Culture]] |year=2006 |volume=13 |issue=Summer |page=3 |doi=10.3138/jrpc.13.1.003 |url=https://www.cinemaspirit.info/JRPC_archive/JRPC_06_MS_Middle_Earth_Messiah.pdf |access-date=10 June 2022 |archive-date=16 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220616051939/https://www.cinemaspirit.info/JRPC_archive/JRPC_06_MS_Middle_Earth_Messiah.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref>

The philosopher [[Peter Kreeft]], like Tolkien a [[Roman Catholic]], observes that there is no one complete, concrete, visible Christ figure in ''The Lord of the Rings'' comparable to [[Aslan]] in [[C. S. Lewis]]'s [[Chronicles of Narnia]] series. However, Kreeft and Jean Chausse have identified reflections of the figure of Jesus Christ in three [[protagonist]]s of ''The Lord of the Rings'': Gandalf, Frodo and Aragorn. While Chausse found "facets of the personality of Jesus" in them, Kreeft wrote that "they exemplify the Old Testament [[threefold office|threefold Messianic symbolism]] of [[prophet]] (Gandalf), priest (Frodo), and king (Aragorn)."<ref name="Kreeft 2005"/><ref>{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=32FODDQdKLIC&q=Tolkien+Frodo+Christ&pg=PA33 |title=The Ring and the Cross: Christianity and the Lord of the Rings |editor-first=Paul E. |editor-last=Kerry |first=Paul E. |last=Kerry |pages=32–34 |publisher=[[Fairleigh Dickinson University Press]] |year=2010 |isbn=978-1-61147-065-9 |access-date=31 October 2020 |archive-date=20 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230820125038/https://books.google.com/books?id=32FODDQdKLIC&q=Tolkien+Frodo+Christ&pg=PA33 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Schultz |first=Forrest W. |title=Christian Typologies in The Lord of the Rings |url=https://chalcedon.edu/magazine/christian-typologies-in-the-lord-of-the-rings |publisher=[[Chalcedon Foundation|Chalcedon]] |access-date=26 March 2020 |date=1 December 2002 |archive-date=26 March 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200326091611/https://chalcedon.edu/magazine/christian-typologies-in-the-lord-of-the-rings |url-status=live }}</ref>

{| class="wikitable" style="margin: auto"
|+ Peter Kreeft's analysis of Christ-figures in ''Lord of the Rings''<ref name="Kreeft 2005">{{cite web |url=http://www.ignatiusinsight.com/features2005/pkreeft_christlotr_nov05.asp |title=The Presence of Christ in The Lord of the Rings |first=Peter J. |last=Kreeft |author-link=Peter Kreeft |work=Ignatius Insight |date=November 2005 |access-date=1 April 2020 |archive-date=24 November 2005 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20051124173906/http://www.ignatiusinsight.com/features2005/pkreeft_christlotr_nov05.asp |url-status=dead }}</ref>
|-
! Christ-like attribute !! Gandalf !! [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] !! [[Aragorn]]
|-
| <!--1-->[[Sacrificial]] death,<br/>[[Resurrection of Jesus|resurrection]]
| Dies in [[Moria (Middle-earth)|Moria]],<br/>reborn as Gandalf the White{{efn|Other commentators such as [[Jane Chance]] have compared this transformed reappearance to the [[Transfiguration of Jesus]].<ref>{{cite book |last=Nitzsche |first=Jane Chance |author-link=Jane Chance |title=Tolkien's Art |date=1980 |orig-year=1979 |publisher=[[Papermac]] |isbn=0-333-29034-8 |page=42}}</ref>}}
| Symbolically dies under Morgul-knife,<br/>healed by [[Elrond]]<ref>Also by other commentators, such as {{cite book |last=Mathews |first=Richard |title=Fantasy: The Liberation of Imagination |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=vSpceyhof4IC&pg=PA69 |year=2016 |publisher=[[Routledge]] |isbn=978-1-136-78554-2 |page=69 |access-date=1 April 2020 |archive-date=20 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230820125037/https://books.google.com/books?id=vSpceyhof4IC&pg=PA69 |url-status=live }}</ref>
| Takes [[Paths of the Dead]],<br/>reappears in [[Gondor]]
|-
| <!--2-->[[Redeemer (Christianity)|Saviour]]
| colspan="3"; style="text-align: center;" | All three help to save [[Middle-earth]] from [[Sauron]]
|-
| <!--3-->Threefold [[Messiah|Messianic]] symbolism
| style="text-align: center;" | [[Prophet]]
| style="text-align: center;" | Priest
| style="text-align: center;" | King
|}

== Adaptations ==

[[File:BakshiGandalf.JPG|thumb|Gandalf the White as depicted in [[Ralph Bakshi]]'s [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|1978 animated film]]]]

<!--------Radio---------->
In the [[BBC Radio]] dramatisations, Gandalf has been voiced by [[Norman Shelley]] in ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1955 radio series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' (1955–1956),<ref>{{cite dictionary |last=Oliver |first=Sarah |title=An A-Z of JRR Tolkien's The Hobbit |date=2012 |publisher=[[John Blake Publishing]] |isbn=978-1-7821-9090-5 |entry=Gandalf |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=8zatDwAAQBAJ}}</ref> [[Heron Carvic]] in ''The Hobbit'' (1968), [[Bernard Mayes]] in ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1979 radio series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' (1979),<ref>{{cite web |title=Mind's Eye The Lord of the Rings (1979) |date=31 August 2014 |url=https://www.sf-worlds.com/lotr/minds-eye-1979/ |publisher=SF Worlds |access-date=5 April 2020 |archive-date=6 April 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200406183946/https://www.sf-worlds.com/lotr/minds-eye-1979/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and Sir [[Michael Hordern]] in ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' (1981).<ref>{{cite web |title=The Lord of the Rings BBC Adaptation (1981) |date=31 August 2014 |url=https://www.sf-worlds.com/lotr/bbc-1981/ |publisher=SF Worlds |access-date=5 April 2020 |archive-date=6 April 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200406184216/https://www.sf-worlds.com/lotr/bbc-1981/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

<!--------Film & TV---------->
[[John Huston]] voiced Gandalf in the animated films ''[[The Hobbit (1977 film)|The Hobbit]]'' (1977) and ''[[The Return of the King (1980 film)|The Return of the King]]'' (1980) produced by [[Rankin/Bass]]. [[William Squire]] voiced Gandalf in the animated film ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' (1978) directed by [[Ralph Bakshi]]. [[Ivan Krasko (actor)|Ivan Krasko]] played Gandalf in the Soviet film adaptation ''[[The Hobbit (1985 film)|The Hobbit]]'' (1985).<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.huffpost.com/entry/the-hobbit-russian-soviet-version_n_1163699 |title='The Hobbit': Russian Soviet Version Is Cheap / Delightful | work=[[HuffPost]] |location=New York City |date=21 December 2011 |archive-date=5 April 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170405001134/http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/12/21/the-hobbit-russian-soviet-version_n_1163699.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Gandalf was portrayed by [[Vesa Vierikko]] in the Finnish television [[miniseries]] ''[[Hobitit]]'' (1993).<ref name=Kajava>{{cite news |last=Kajava |first=Jukka |title=Tolkienin taruista on tehty tv-sarja: Hobitien ilme syntyi jo Ryhmäteatterin Suomenlinnan tulkinnassa |trans-title=Tolkien's tales have been turned into a TV series: The Hobbits have been brought to live in the Ryhmäteatteri theatre |work=[[Helsingin Sanomat]] |language=fi |date=29 March 1993 |url=http://www.hs.fi/paivanlehti/arkisto/?haku=Klonkku&ref=arkisto%2F&page=4 |access-date=5 April 2020 |archive-date=14 September 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160914094817/http://www.hs.fi/paivanlehti/arkisto/?haku=Klonkku&ref=arkisto/&page=4 |url-status=live }}{{Subscription required}}</ref>

[[File:Gandalf600ppx.jpg|thumb|upright|left|[[Ian McKellen]] as Gandalf the White in [[Peter Jackson]]'s ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers|The Two Towers]]'' (2002)]]

[[Ian McKellen]] portrayed Gandalf in ''[[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|The Lord of the Rings]]'' film series (2001–2003), directed by [[Peter Jackson]], after [[Sean Connery]] and [[Patrick Stewart]] both turned down the role.<ref>{{cite web |first=Daniel |last=Saney |url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/movies/news/a23120/idiots-force-connery-to-quit-acting.html |title='Idiots' force Connery to quit acting |work=[[Digital Spy]] |publisher=[[Hearst Magazines UK]] |date=1 August 2005 |access-date=2 February 2011 |archive-date=16 October 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016085307/http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/movies/news/a23120/idiots-force-connery-to-quit-acting.html |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite news | title=New York Con Reports, Pictures and Video | publisher=TrekMovie | date=9 March 2008 | url=https://trekmovie.com/2008/03/09/new-york-con-reports-pictures-and-video/#more-1711 | access-date=12 March 2008 | archive-date=20 September 2020 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200920233616/https://trekmovie.com/2008/03/09/new-york-con-reports-pictures-and-video/#more-1711 | url-status=live }}</ref> According to Jackson, McKellen based his performance as Gandalf on Tolkien himself:

{{blockquote|We listened to audio recordings of Tolkien reading excerpts from ''Lord of the Rings''. We watched some BBC interviews with him—there's a few interviews with Tolkien—and Ian based his performance on an impersonation of Tolkien. He's literally basing Gandalf on Tolkien. He sounds the same, he uses the speech patterns and his mannerisms are born out of the same roughness from the footage of Tolkien. So, Tolkien would recognize himself in Ian's performance.<ref name=impersonate>{{cite news |url=https://www.huffpost.com/entry/peter-jackson-the-hobbit-an-unexpected-journey_n_2248919 |last=Ryan |first=Mike |title=Peter Jackson, 'The Hobbit' Director, On Returning To Middle-Earth & The Polarizing 48 FPS Format | work=[[HuffPost]] |location=New York City |date=6 December 2012 |archive-date=24 December 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131224182546/http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/12/06/peter-jackson-the-hobbit-an-unexpected-journey_n_2248919.html |url-status=live }}</ref>}}

McKellen confirmed this,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ian McKellen modeled his Gandalf performance on J.R.R. Tolkien's 'smoky voice' |url=https://ew.com/ian-mckellen-modeled-gandalf-performance-on-j-r-r-tolkien-8725036 |access-date=26 January 2025 |publisher=Entertainment Weekly}}</ref> and stated that he enjoyed Tolkien's letters and readings from the novels. "I am encouraged by the theatricality of his readings full of rhythm and humour and characterisation. Without question Gandalf is like Tolkien but then so, I suspect, are Frodo and Aragorn."<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ian McKellen {{!}} Lord of the Rings {{!}} E-Posts {{!}} FAQ {{!}} 12 March 2000 |url=https://www.mckellen.com/epost/l000312.htm |access-date=26 January 2025 |publisher=Ian McKellen}}</ref> 

McKellen received widespread acclaim<ref>{{cite web |last=Moore |first=Sam |title=Sir Ian McKellen to reprise role of Gandalf in new one-man show |url=https://www.nme.com/news/sir-ian-mckellen-playing-gandalf-again-one-man-show-2026457 |publisher=[[NME]] |access-date=18 April 2020 |date=23 March 2017 |archive-date=18 June 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200618225825/https://www.nme.com/news/sir-ian-mckellen-playing-gandalf-again-one-man-show-2026457 |url-status=live }}</ref> for his portrayal of Gandalf, particularly in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring|The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', for which he received a [[Screen Actors Guild Award]]<ref>{{cite web |title=Acting Awards, Honours, and Appointments |url=https://mckellen.com/awards/index.htm |publisher=Ian McKellen |access-date=18 April 2020 |archive-date=30 December 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191230065414/http://mckellen.com/awards/index.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> and an [[Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor|Academy Award nomination, both for best supporting actor]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.oscars.org/awards/academyawards/legacy/ceremony/74th-winners.html |title=The 74th Academy Awards (2002) Nominees and Winners |access-date=19 November 2011 |work=oscars.org |archive-date=1 October 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141001074138/https://www.oscars.org/awards/academyawards/legacy/ceremony/74th-winners.html |url-status=live }}</ref> ''[[Empire (film magazine)|Empire]]'' named Gandalf, as portrayed by McKellen, the 30th greatest film character of all time.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.empireonline.com/100-greatest-movie-characters/default.asp?c=28 |title=The 100 Greatest Movie Characters: 30. Gandalf |work=[[Empire (magazine)|Empire]] |publisher=[[Bauer Media Group]] |location=London, England |date=29 June 2015 |access-date=9 June 2018 |archive-date=3 October 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131003115641/http://www.empireonline.com/100-greatest-movie-characters/default.asp?c=28 |url-status=live }}</ref> He reprised the role in ''[[The Hobbit (film series)|The<!--Article is part of film title!--> Hobbit]]'' film series (2012–2014), claiming that he enjoyed playing Gandalf the Grey more than Gandalf the White.<ref>{{cite book | first=Brian |last=Sibley |author-link=Brian Sibley |title=Peter Jackson: A Film-maker's Journey |chapter=Ring-Master |publisher=[[HarperCollins]] |year=2006 |pages=445–519 | isbn=0-00-717558-2}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.mckellen.com/cinema/hobbit-movie/ |title=Ian McKellen as Gandalf in The Hobbit |publisher=Ian McKellen |access-date=11 January 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110703003740/http://www.mckellen.com/cinema/hobbit-movie/ |archive-date=3 July 2011}}</ref> He voiced Gandalf for several video games based on the films, including ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (video game)|The Two Towers]]'',<ref>{{cite web |title=Gandalf |url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/video-games/The-Lord-of-the-Rings-The-Two-Towers/Gandalf/ |website=Behind the Voice Actors |access-date=22 January 2021 |archive-date=30 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210130013116/https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/video-games/The-Lord-of-the-Rings-The-Two-Towers/Gandalf/ |url-status=live }}</ref> ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (video game)|The Return of the King]]'',<ref>{{cite web |title=Gandalf |url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/video-games/The-Lord-of-the-Rings-The-Return-of-the-King/Gandalf/ |website=Behind the Voice Actors |access-date=22 January 2021 |archive-date=15 April 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210415085222/https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/video-games/The-Lord-of-the-Rings-The-Return-of-the-King/Gandalf/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Third Age|The Third Age]]''.<ref>{{cite web |title=Gandalf |url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/video-games/The-Lord-of-the-Rings-The-Third-Age/Gandalf/ |website=Behind the Voice Actors |access-date=22 January 2021 |archive-date=15 April 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210415083616/https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/video-games/The-Lord-of-the-Rings-The-Third-Age/Gandalf/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

In the prequel series ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power]]'', [[Daniel Weyman]] portrays a younger version of Gandalf, who is only known as the Stranger until the final episode of the second season, partly because the character functioned as a [[red herring]] for the identity of the show's version of Sauron.<ref>{{cite news |last=Zemler |first=Emily |title=Who is the Stranger? 'The Rings of Power' Season 2 finale has a major reveal |work=[[Los Angeles Times]] |date=3 October 2024 |url=https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/tv/story/2024-10-03/rings-of-power-season-2-finale-the-stranger |access-date=3 October 2024}}</ref>

<!--------Stage---------->
Charles Picard portrayed Gandalf in the 1999 stage production of ''The Two Towers'' at Chicago's [[Lifeline Theatre]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://archives.theonering.net/events/pastevents/trey_twotowers.html|title=TheOneRing.net {{!}} Events {{!}} World Events {{!}} The Two Towers at Chicago's Lifeline Theatre|website=archives.theonering.net|access-date=1 April 2020|archive-date=15 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210415084651/http://archives.theonering.net/events/pastevents/trey_twotowers.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last=Wren |first=Celia |date=October 2001 |title=The Mordor the Merrier |journal=[[American Theatre (magazine)|American Theatre]] |volume=18 |pages=13–15}}</ref> [[Brent Carver]] portrayed Gandalf in the 2006 musical production ''[[Lord of the Rings (musical)|The Lord of the Rings]]'', which opened in [[Toronto]].<ref>{{cite web |first=Kenneth |last=Jones |url=http://www.playbill.com/article/precious-news-tony-award-winner-will-play-gandalf-in-lord-of-the-rings-musical-cast-announced-com-127132 |title=Precious News! Tony Award Winner Will Play Gandalf in Lord of the Rings Musical; Cast Announced |work=[[Playbill (magazine)|Playbill]] |publisher=Playbill |date=25 July 2005 |access-date=28 March 2013 |archive-date=9 April 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160409141431/http://www.playbill.com/article/precious-news-tony-award-winner-will-play-gandalf-in-lord-of-the-rings-musical-cast-announced-com-127132 |url-status=live }}</ref>

<!--------games---------->
Gandalf appears in ''[[The Lego Movie]]'', voiced by [[Todd Hanson]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Gandalf |url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/movies/The-LEGO-Movie/Gandalf/ |website=Behind the Voice Actors |access-date=19 April 2020 |quote=Todd Hansen is the voice of Gandalf in The LEGO Movie. |archive-date=15 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210115203518/https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/movies/The-LEGO-Movie/Gandalf/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Gandalf is a main character in the video game ''[[Lego Dimensions]]'' and is voiced by [[Tom Kane]].<ref>{{cite web |first=Derrick |last=Lang |url=http://www.denverpost.com/lacrosse/ci_27879198/awesome-lego-dimensions-combining-bricks-and-franchises |title=Awesome! 'Lego Dimensions' combining bricks and franchises |work=[[The Denver Post]] |publisher=[[Digital First Media]] |location=Denver, Colorado |date=9 April 2015 |access-date=9 April 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150904054336/http://www.denverpost.com/lacrosse/ci_27879198/awesome-lego-dimensions-combining-bricks-and-franchises |archive-date=4 September 2015}}</ref>

<!--music-->
Gandalf has his own movement in [[Johan de Meij]]'s [[Symphony No. 1 "The Lord of the Rings"]], which was written for [[concert band]] and premiered in 1988.<ref>{{cite web |title=Der Herr der Ringe, Johan de Meij - Sinfonie Nr.1 |url=http://sbor.de/index.php?id=66 |access-date=21 October 2021 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141011084604/http://sbor.de/index.php?id=66 |archive-date=11 October 2014}}</ref> 
In [[Aulis Sallinen]]'s [[Symphonies (Sallinen)|Symphony No. 7, Op. 71 'The Dreams of Gandalf']], the Gandalf theme has the note sequence G-A-D-A-F, "Gandalf" as far as can be formed with the notes A to G. The result is a "striving, rising theme".<ref name="Bratman 2010">{{cite book |last=Bratman |first=David |author-link=David Bratman |chapter=Liquid Tolkien: Music, Tolkien, Middle-earth, and More Music |editor-last=Eden |editor-first=Bradford Lee |editor-link=Bradford Lee Eden |title=Middle-earth Minstrel: Essays on Music in Tolkien |date=2010 |publisher=McFarland |isbn=978-0-7864-5660-4 |pages=162–163 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=AOS74uZTasYC |access-date=1 March 2023 |archive-date=1 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230301195649/https://books.google.com/books?id=AOS74uZTasYC |url-status=live }}</ref>
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    THIS IS NOT A LIST. Please do not add anything here without a reliable independent citation and a good reason for having it here, i.e. it has attracted the notice of reviewers. Anything else will be removed. Thank you.
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== Notes ==
{{notelist}}

== References ==

=== Primary ===

{{reflist|group=T}}

=== Secondary ===
{{reflist}}

== Sources ==

* {{ME-ref|Letters}}
* {{ME-ref|TH}}
* {{ME-ref|FOTR}}
* {{ME-ref|TT}}
* {{ME-ref|ROTK}}
* {{cite book |last=Tolkien |first=J. R. R. |author-link=J. R. R. Tolkien |chapter=[[Guide to the Names in The Lord of the Rings|Guide to the Names in ''The Lord of the Rings'']] |editor-last=Lobdell |editor-first=Jared |editor-link=Jared Lobdell |title=[[A Tolkien Compass]] |publisher=[[Open Court Publishing Company|Open Court Publishing]] |publication-place=Chicago, Illinois |date=1975 |isbn=0-87548-303-8 |pages=153–201}}  
* {{ME-ref|Silm}}
* {{ME-ref|UT}}
* {{ME-ref|ROTS}}

{{Middle-earth}}
{{Hobbit}}
{{Lord of the Rings}}

[[Category:Adventure film characters]]
[[Category:Christ figures in fiction]]
[[Category:Fictional characters with fire or heat abilities]]
[[Category:The Hobbit characters]]
[[Category:Literary characters introduced in 1937]]
[[Category:The Lord of the Rings characters]]
[[Category:Middle-earth wizards]]
[[Category:Ring-bearers]]
[[Category:The Silmarillion characters]]
[[Category:Animated characters introduced in 1977]]
[[Category:Film characters introduced in 1977]]
[[Category:Television characters introduced in 1977]]