Gandalf

Also known as the great Wizard, Gandalf the Grey

Major
First seen · Book 1 · Ch. 2

Gender: male
Age: ancient
First appears: Book 1 · Ch. 2
Books: 3

Gandalf the Grey begins as a wandering wizard whose physical presence and counsel anchor the Fellowship’s formation, then is reborn as Gandalf the White after his sacrificial fall in Moria, emerging with heightened power and authority that lets him confront Saruman, heal Théoden, and orchestrate the final campaign against Sauron. Across the three volumes his role shifts from covert guide and Ring-bearer’s mentor to openly commanding strategist whose white robes and renewed strength symbolize both personal transcendence and the wider turning of the tide. By the end he has become the linchpin linking disparate realms—Hobbits, Men, Elves, and Ents—while preparing to depart Middle-earth once his task is complete.

Description

An old wizard with long white hair, a sweeping silver beard, and bushy eyebrows that stick out beyond his tall pointed blue hat. He wears a long grey cloak and a silver scarf. His aged face is lined with care and wisdom, featuring a sharp nose and dark eyes set like coals that can gleam, flash, or leap into fire. He has broad shoulders, is shorter in stature than companions like Elrond but can grow tall and menacing with a commanding shadow; at other times he appears bent, careworn, and like a wizened tree. His hands are gnarled; he bears a staff and at times the sword Glamdring. A tall elderly wizard with fair skin, snow-white hair flowing freely and a long white beard. His bright piercing eyes shine intensely from beneath deep brows set in an ancient face that looks both weary and commanding. He stands straight and tall in gleaming white robes that shine dazzlingly, holding a wooden staff and radiating inner light and power beyond that of kings despite his aged bent posture. An old wizard with long white hair, a sweeping silver beard, bushy eyebrows, and an aged face lined with care and sorrow. He wears a long grey cloak; his eyes can appear to hold a smouldering fire.

Connections

Family & partnersFriends & mentorsRivals

Aragornconflicting source relationships
Begins as a trusted partner in the hunt for Gollum; after Gandalf’s return he becomes Aragorn’s chief counselor, guiding him toward kingship and entrusting him with the final stratagem against Sauron.
Frodo Bagginsguide
Starts as Frodo’s secret-keeper and protector; after Moria, Gandalf’s counsel shifts from practical guidance to spiritual encouragement, culminating in their reunion and shared journey to the Havens.
Meriadoc Brandybuckconflicting source relationships
Shows fatherly concern for Merry’s safety, ensures his healing, and encourages his maturation from frightened hobbit to valued knight of Rohan.
Peregrin Tookconflicting source relationships
Takes the impulsive hobbit under his wing in Minas Tirith, tempering Pippin’s recklessness with responsibility and offering reassurance amid the city’s darkest hours.
Théodencounsellor
First appears as the enfeebled king under Wormtongue’s spell; Gandalf restores his mind and will, then serves as his chief war-counselor until Théoden’s death.
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Shadowfaxrider
From their first meeting in Rohan, Shadowfax becomes Gandalf’s unmatched steed, carrying him across kingdoms and standing firm before the Witch-king.
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Gwaihirfriend
The Lord of the Eagles rescues Gandalf twice—first from Orthanc, then from Zirak-zigil—cementing a bond of swift aerial aid in times of dire need.
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Denethorconflicting source relationships
A wary political counterpart whose mutual distrust peaks during the siege of Minas Tirith; Gandalf openly challenges Denethor’s despair and authority to protect Faramir and Gondor.
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Sarumanformer fellow wizard
Transitions from fellow Istari to outright enemy when Saruman’s betrayal is revealed; Gandalf ultimately overthrows him, stripping his staff and authority.
Sauronadversary
Long-term adversary whose strategy Gandalf counters by uniting the Free Peoples and masking the true purpose of the Ring’s destruction.

Story so far

BOOK 1The Fellowship of the Ring: Being the First Part of the Lord of the Rings
- Reveals the true nature of the One Ring to Frodo and sets the Quest in motion
- Is imprisoned by Saruman in Orthanc after discovering his treachery
- Escapes with Gwaihir and reaches the Council of Elrond
- Leads the Fellowship south from Rivendell and battles the Balrog on the Bridge of Khazad-dûm
BOOK 2The Two Towers: Being the Second Part of the Lord of the Rings
- Returns as Gandalf the White after defeating the Balrog
- Frees King Théoden from Saruman’s influence at Edoras
- Confronts and strips Saruman of his power at Orthanc
- Rallies Rohan’s forces and rides Shadowfax to Helm’s Deep
BOOK 3The Return of the King: Being the Third Part of the Lord of the Rings
- Confronts the Witch-king at the gates of Minas Tirith
- Rescues Faramir and challenges Denethor’s despair
- Coordinates the diversionary assault on the Black Gate to aid Frodo
- Bids farewell to the Ring-bearers at the Grey Havens