White Wizard

Saruman, the first White Wizard

"White Wizard" was the title held by the two chiefs of the Istari (Wizards), each charged with uniting the Free Peoples of Middle-earth against Sauron.

Description

Gandalf, the second White Wizard

The first White Wizard was a Maia known as Saruman or Curunír, who also acted as leader of the White Council. Pursuing power to impose order, he eventually fell from his errand and became the Dark Lord's puppet. The second White Wizard was another Maia, Gandalf or Mithrandir, who was also a member of the White Council. Gandalf was the only Istar to stay true to the mission, arising as the Enemy of Sauron, even sacrificing his life. He was then sent back to assume Saruman's mantle and right his wrongs.

Both White Wizards played important parts in shaping the history of the Third Age, especially the events that affected Men and Elves. Gandalf guided the Free Peoples in their hour of need, planning the path that led to Sauron's final overthrow and the Dominion of Men. His task done, he left Middle-earth and returned to Valinor, whereas Saruman acted out his new master's will, even as he plotted to usurp his place, and terrorized both Rohan and the Shire. In the end, he was defeated in the Battle of Bywater and his impotent spirit was barred from returning to Middle-earth.

Trivia

• Before his corruption, Saruman was also known as the White Messenger. After being sent back, Gandalf's alias of the "Grey Pilgrim" was altered to the White Rider.
• Even though he once styled himself as "Saruman of Many Colors", Saruman's emblem as Lord of Isengard was the White Hand.
• At Cuiviénen, Melian had acted as chief of the Five Guardians (the future Istari), though she did not hold the mantle of White Wizard.