Tolkien Gateway - User contributions [en]

Index talk:Unpublished material

2025-10-15T18:13:21Z

Protospace: /* Some material published in The Nature of Middle-earth */

==Negation in Quenya==
When updating the references for [[Negation in Quenya]] I noticed that all of the unpublished material cited therein has since been published in PE17 and PE22. Can we therefore remove this from the list of Unpublished material?
The same goes for the Lyenna inscription, which was published and analyzed in Vinyar Tengwar 47.
[[User:Unweg|Unweg]] ([[User talk:Unweg|talk]]) 16:41, 7 March 2023 (UTC)

Since no one has commented for or against, I will go ahead with removing those two from this list. [[User:Unweg|Unweg]] ([[User talk:Unweg|talk]]) 02:55, 16 March 2023 (UTC)

==Some material published in The Nature of Middle-earth==
Some of the material listed on this page has since been published in [[The Nature of Middle-earth]], and this page hasn't been updated to reflect their publication. Specifically:
* ''Essay, written in response to seeing Pauline Baynes's depiction of various characters from The Lord of the Rings. Tolkien described each member of the Fellowship of the Ring and some other persons as he pictured them — an invaluable aid to any illustrator of his work.'' -published in The Nature of Middle-earth as Part 2(VI), "Descriptions of Characters"
* ''Note about the location of the Dúnedain'' - published in The Nature of Middle-earth in Part 3(XVII), "Silvan Elves and Silvan Elvish," note 12.

Unless there are any objections, I'll remove these materials from the list. [[User:Protospace|Protospace]] ([[User talk:Protospace|talk]]) 23:06, 11 October 2025 (UTC)
:No objections from me, but be sure to move them to someplace else on the wiki before removing them from this page.[[User:Dour1234|Dour1234]] ([[User talk:Dour1234|talk]]) 23:44, 11 October 2025 (UTC)
:: I'm not sure what you mean. There is no page on this wiki for "formerly unpublished" materials. [[User:Protospace|Protospace]] ([[User talk:Protospace|talk]]) 07:29, 12 October 2025 (UTC)
:::I am saying that they should be put on various relevant pages.[[User:Dour1234|Dour1234]] ([[User talk:Dour1234|talk]]) 08:40, 12 October 2025 (UTC)
::::The question of how these now-published sources are used elsewhere on this wiki is seperate from the issue of these sources being inaccurately listed on this page. I might edit some other pages to add lore information from these formerly unpublished sources, but I make no promises. This is an open wiki that editors are free to edit based on their interests, and information in The Nature of Middle-earth is available to all interested editors should they wish to use it as a source for their edits. [[User:Protospace|Protospace]] ([[User talk:Protospace|talk]]) 17:07, 12 October 2025 (UTC)
::::I just checked, and these two sources are already used on various relevant pages through citations to their locations in the The Nature of Middle-earth, including on pages such as [[Legolas]] (which cites the the essay on character descriptions) and [[Rangers of the North]] (which cites the note the location of the Dúnedain). [[User:Protospace|Protospace]] ([[User talk:Protospace|talk]]) 18:13, 15 October 2025 (UTC)

Index:Unpublished material

2025-10-15T18:04:44Z

Protospace: Remove items published in The Nature of Middle-earth per talk page

This is a list of known '''Unpublished or partially unpublished material by [[J.R.R. Tolkien]]'''. For a list of Tolkien's published writings, see [[Index:Writings by J.R.R. Tolkien|Writings by J.R.R. Tolkien]].
*''Note 1: Entries which have no article of their own carry references, otherwise references are found under each article.''
*''Note 2: Material which is only rumoured (i.e., where no reference has been found in a reliable published source), questionable, disputed, or similiar, are enclosed with parentheses''.

==Essays, notes, and lectures==
*"[[The Beginnings of English Poetry]]" (talk to the Oxford High School for Girls)<ref>{{webcite|author=[[Christina Scull]] and [[Wayne G. Hammond]]|articleurl=https://www.hammondandscull.com/addenda/chronology_by_date.html|articlename=Addenda and Corrigenda to ''The J.R.R. Tolkien Companion and Guide'' (2006) Vol. 1: Chronology · Arranged by Date|dated=23 December 2010|website=HS|accessed=19 May 2012}}, note to "p. 257, entry for 1943, l. 1"</ref>
*"[[Tolkien and Wales#Unpublished manuscripts|Celts and Teutons]]"
*"[[The Chill Barbarians of the North]]"
*[[Concerning ... 'The Hoard']] (partially published in commentary to ''[[The Hoard]]'')<ref>{{CP|69}}</ref>
*[[Critique of "Distressing Tale of Thangobrind the Jeweler"]]
*[[Cushing Memorial Library and Archives collection]]
*[[Diplomatarium Islandicum manuscripts|''Diplomatarium Islandicum'' manuscripts]]
*[[Elvish time]] (partially published)
*"Francis Thompson" - paper on Francis Thompson, presented to the Exeter College Essay Club. (partially published)<ref>{{HM|AH}}, p. 205</ref>
*[[The Goths]]
*"[[The History of the 'Our Father' in English]]"
*[[Manuscript notes in Dictionary in Englysshe and Welshe|Manuscript notes in ''Dictionary in Englysshe and Welshe'']]
*Notes in Tolkien's copies of:
**([[List of books in Tolkien's library#Cairo Studies in English|''Cairo Studies in English'']])
**[[List of books in Tolkien's library#Der Indogermanische Ablaut|''Der Indogermanische Ablaut'']]
**''The New Testament in the Westminster Version of the Sacred Scriptures'' (Sands & Company Ltd 1947; contains "numerous notes and bibliographical amendments")<ref>{{webcite|author=[[Pieter Collier]]|articleurl=http://www.tolkienlibrary.com/tolkien-book-store/001343.htm|articlename=#001343 - The New Testament in the Westminster Version of the Sacred Scriptures, Signed By J.R.R. Tolkien|dated=|website=TL|accessed=14 December 2013}}</ref>
**''[[List of books in Tolkien's library#Portugais; phonétique et phonologie, morphologie, textes|Portugais; phonétique et phonologie, morphologie, textes]]''
**''[[List of books in Tolkien's library#|The Prioress's Tale and The Tale of Sir Thopas]]''
**''[[List of books in Tolkien's library#Probleme der Englischen Sprache und Kultur|Probleme der Englischen Sprache und Kultur]]''
**''[[Songs for the Philologists]]'' (held at the [[Marquette University]]; annotations in pencil)<ref>[[Dimitra Fimi]], [http://www.facebook.com/groups/6522796067/permalink/10151631395776068/ Post at The Tolkien Society page], dated 17 May 2013 at Facebook (accessed 17 May 2013)</ref>
**([[List of books in Tolkien's library#Specimens Of Early English|''Specimens Of Early English'']])
*[[Tolkien and Wales#Unpublished manuscripts|Notes on etymology of 'Lydney']]
*[[James Joyce|Notes on James Joyce]]
*[[Letter 297|Note on Númenórean religion]]
*[[Tolkien and Wales#Unpublished manuscripts|Papers relating to "English and Welsh"]]
*Review (written ca. 1934-1935) of "the Devonshire volumes published by the English Place-Name Society in 1931 and 1932".<ref>{{CG|C}}, p. 172</ref>
*[[Beowulf: An Introduction to the Study of the Poem|Review notes for ''Beowulf: An Introduction to the Study of the Poem'']]
*"[[The Ulsterior Motive]]"
*"[[On the translation of poetry]]'' (partially published)

==Fiction==
*''[[The Bloodhound, the Chef, and the Suffragette]]''<ref>{{HM|Bio}}, p. 67</ref>
*''[[Cherry Farm]]''
*''[[Anaxartaron Onyalië]]''/''Anaxartamel'' (''Of the Ents and the Eagles'')
*''[[Of Aulë and the Dwarves]]''
*''[[The End of Bovadium]]''
*''[[The King of the Green Dozen]]''
*''[[The Orgog]]''
*Prose version of ''[[The Lay of Leithian]]'', covering till [[Dairon]]'s betrayal.<ref>{{LR|P2VI}}, p. 295</ref>

==Poetry==
{{Seealso|The Collected Poems of J.R.R. Tolkien}}
*''[[Bummsdrápa]]''<ref name=guide>{{CG|2RGI}}, Libraries and archives, Other Libraries and Archives: University of Leeds, pp. 515-7</ref>
*Untitled epistolary poem<ref name=guide/>
*[[Rehabilitations and Other Essays|Unknown "alliterative poem"]]
*"[[The Horns of the Host of Doriath]]"<ref name=CGC848>{{CG|C}}, p. 848</ref>
*"[[Magna Dei Gloria (Warwick)|Magna Dei Gloria]]"<ref name=CGC850>{{CG|C}}, p. 850</ref>
*"[[The Brothers-in-Arms]]" (or [[The Brothers in Arms]])<ref name=CGC842>{{CG|C}}, p. 842</ref>
*"[[The Children of Húrin (rhyming couplets)]]" (Another version in rhyming couplets of ''[[The Lay of the Children of Húrin]]'', abandoned early)<ref>{{LB|1}}, p. 130</ref>
*"[[Companions of the Rose]]"<ref name=CGC843>{{CG|C}}, p. 843</ref>
*"[[Completorium]]". Earlier called ''[[Completorium|Evening]]''.<ref name=CGC843/>
*Full English recording of "[[Twenty years have flowed away down the long river]]".

;Only exist/survive as titles
*''[[Monoceros, the Unicorn]]''<ref name="poem">{{webcite|author=[[Christina Scull]] and [[Wayne G. Hammond]]|articleurl=https://www.hammondandscull.com/addenda/chronology_by_date.html|articlename=Addenda and Corrigenda to ''The J.R.R. Tolkien Companion and Guide'' (2006) Vol. 1: Chronology · Arranged by Date|dated=10 April 2014|website=HS|accessed=26 September 2025}}, note to "1920s (by June 1927)" under "p. 110, add entry:"</ref>
*''[[Reginhardus, the Fox]]''<ref name="poem"/>
*''[[Smakkabagms]]''

==Letters==
{{main|Letters not published in "The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien"}}

==Linguistics (invented languages)==
*([[Asëa#Etymology|''athelas''/''asëa'' etymology (1970s)]])
*[[Book of the Foxrook]] (partially published)
*Common Eldarin pronominal elements (grammatical description; partially published)<ref>{{PE|17}}, p. 14</ref><ref group=note>This manuscript appears to be included with the published "Quenya Pronominal Elements" (cf. {{VT|49b}}, p. 50).</ref>
*Discussion of Quenya demonstrative and relative pronouns (partially published; dating from the 1940s)<ref>{{PE|16}}, pp. 96-7</ref>
*"Homophonic stems" (partially published; ca. 1968, typescript text)<ref>{{VT|49a}}, p. 14</ref>
*[[Khuzdul]] phonology and root modifications<ref>{{webcite|author=Carl Hostetter|articleurl=http://www.lotrplaza.com/archives/index.php?Archive=archive&TID=161449|articlename=reply to: Khuzdul - mostly to Aelfwine/Carl Hostetter|dated=26 Nov 2004|website=Plaza|accessed=17 Apr 2017}}</ref>
*[[Mágol]]
*1930s Noldorin Grammar<ref>{{PE|17}}, p. 44</ref>
*Notebook showing how Tolkien "experimented with Esperanto before creating his fictional Elvish languages"<ref>{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/whatson/whats-on/upcoming-events/2019/feb/babel-adventures-in-translation|articlename=Babel: Adventures in Translation|dated=|website=[http://www.bodleian.ox.ac.uk bodleian.ox.ac.uk]|accessed=30 January 2019}}</ref>
*Pronominal endings (1950s)<ref>{{VT|50a}}, p. 21</ref>
*[[Queen of Heaven]], a trilingual prayer to Varda.<ref>{{webcite||articleurl=http://www.omentielva.com/programme.htm|articlename=Omentielva Nertea: Programme|website=[http://www.omentielva.com/index.htm Omentielva: The International Conference on J.R.R. Tolkien's Invented Languages]|accessed=22 August 2022}}</ref>
*Specimens of Tolkien's invented languages in [[tengwar]]-type script from the 1930s (might appear in "future issues of ''[[Parma Eldalamberon]]''")<ref>{{PE|20}}, p. 5</ref>. These were published as Versions A and A′ of ''The Feanorian Alphabet'' in [[Parma Eldalamberon 22|''Parma Eldalamberon'' 22]], with a note that later Versions B and C are intended to be published "in future volumes of Parma Eldalamberon".<ref>{{PE|22}}, pp. 7-8</ref>
*[[Taliska]] historical grammar and dictionary<ref>{{VT|27a}}, pp. 5-6</ref>
*''Fëanorian Tengwar Mode for Taliska and Gothic''<ref>{{VT|35}}, p. 7</ref>

==Miscellaneous==
*[[The Trumpets of Faerie]]
*Annotated map of Middle-earth<ref>{{webcite|author=Alison Flood|articleurl=http://www.theguardian.com/books/2015/oct/23/jrr-tolkien-middle-earth-annotated-map-blackwells-lord-of-the-rings|articlename=Tolkien's annotated map of Middle-earth discovered inside copy of Lord of the Rings|dated=23 October 2015|website=[http://www.theguardian.com/ theguardian.com]|accessed=24 October 2015}}</ref>
*''[[The Book of Ishness]]'' (partially published)
*[[Cigar bill (3 March 1972)]]
*Collection at the [[University of Leeds]] (includes letter [[Letter to Arthur Ransome]] and transcriptions into [[Tengwar]] of parts of this and Ransome's letter)<ref>{{CG|C}}, pp. 207-8</ref><ref name=Leeds>{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.leeds.ac.uk/news/article/3305/tolkien_sales_are_not_very_great|articlename=Tolkien: "Sales are not very great"|dated=16 October 2012|website=[http://www.leeds.ac.uk/ University of Leeds]|accessed=21 October 2012}}</ref>
*Collection of [[Simonne d'Ardenne]] (includes letters, lecture notes, etc.; only a ''[[tengwar]]'' inscription from the collection published)<ref>Nathalie Kotowski, "Letter to the Editor", in [[Vinyar Tengwar 23|''Vinyar Tengwar'' 23]] ([[1992]]), p. 16</ref>
*[[J.R.R. Tolkien's diaries]] (partially published)
*[[English to Anglo-Saxon dictionary]]
*"A few minor items" related to the [[Letters from Father Christmas|''Father Christmas'' letters]] ("verso inscriptions", "a couple of plainer envelopes ... and a couple of brief notes")<ref>{{webcite|author=[[Wayne G. Hammond]], [[Christina Scull]]|articleurl=http://wayneandchristina.wordpress.com/2012/11/06/the-father-christmas-letters-4/|articlename=The ‘Father Christmas’ Letters (comments section)|dated=21 November 2012|website=HS|accessed=24 March 2013}}</ref>
*[[Index questions|"Index questions" (Glossary-index)]] (partially published)
*[[Oxford University visitor's page]]
*"[[T.H. White|''The Sword of the Stone'' manuscript]]"

==Translations and editions==
*[[The Song of Beewolf Son of Echgethew|''Beowulf'' (alliterative translation)]]<ref>{{webcite|author=[[Michael D.C. Drout]]|articleurl=http://wormtalk.blogspot.com/2014/05/jrr-tolkiens-beowulf-translation.html|articlename=J.R.R. Tolkien's ''Beowulf'' Translation|dated=26 May 2014|website=[http://wormtalk.blogspot.com/ Wormtalk and Slugspeak]|accessed=30 May 2014}}</ref>
*"[[Clarendon Chaucer]]" (partially published)
*"[[Gunnar's End]]". [Translation of brief passage from the Norse ''[[Atlakviða]]'' into [[Old English]] verse].<ref>{{CG|C}}, p. 847 (entry ''Gunnar's End'')</ref><ref>{{CG|2RGI}}, entry ''Atlakviða''</ref>
*''[[Wikipedia:Ormulum|Ormulum]]''<ref>{{webcite|author=[[Anders Stenström|Beregond, Anders Stenström]]|articleurl=http://tolkienseminariet.wordpress.com/2015/10/19/23-oktober-2014/|articlename=Tolkienseminariet 23 oktober 2014|dated=19 October 2015|website=[http://tolkienseminariet.wordpress.com/ tolkienseminariet.wordpress.com]|accessed=19 October 2015}}</ref>
*''[[Pwyll Prince of Dyved]]''
*(''[[Die Walküre]]'')

{{references|note}}
[[Category:Index]]

Index talk:Unpublished material

2025-10-12T17:07:41Z

Protospace: /* Some material published in The Nature of Middle-earth */

Index talk:Unpublished material

2025-10-12T07:29:49Z

Protospace: /* Some material published in The Nature of Middle-earth */

Index talk:Unpublished material

2025-10-11T23:06:50Z

Protospace:

Men of Good Will

2025-10-09T15:15:41Z

Protospace:

The term '''Men of Good Will''' was used by [[Elves]] during the [[Second Age]] to refer to non-[[Númenóreans|Númenórean]] [[Men]] in [[Middle-earth]] who were descended from those who opposed [[Morgoth]] during the [[First Age]].<ref name="will">{{NM|Delay}}</ref> The Men of Good Will consisted of tribes "who lived in [[Eriador]] and [[Calenardhon]] and the [[Vales of Anduin]] and in the [[Great wood|Great Wood]] and the plains between that and [[Mordor]] and the [[Sea of Rhûn]]."<ref name="will" /> These tribes included descendants of the [[Edain]] who remained in Middle-earth during the Second Age and dwelled in Eriador instead of sailing to [[Númenor]]; descendants of the Edain's close kin who had never travelled westward beyond the [[Blue Mountains]] into [[Beleriand]] during the First Age; "and others of remoter kin".<ref name="will" />

==See also==
*[[Middle Men]]

{{References}}

[[Category:Men]]

Middle Men

2025-10-09T15:14:22Z

Protospace:

'''Middle Men''' was a term used by the [[Númenóreans]] for [[Men]] who were related to the [[Edain]], the ancestors of the Númenóreans themselves.

The proper term is ''Men of Twilight'' (as opposed to the [[Gondorians]], ''[[Númenóreans|High Men]]'', and the [[Haradrim]] and [[Easterlings]], ''[[Men of Darkness]]''). The name reflects the Gondorian attitude towards them: not enemies, but also not as noble to be counted among themselves.

Most Middle Men had kinship with the Houses of [[Bëor]] or [[Marach]]. There were also Men in Middle-earth related to the Second House (the [[Haladin]]), and the men of [[Enedwaith]] and [[Minhiriath]], later to be known as the [[Dunlendings]]. But because they spoke a language that was unknown to the Númenóreans they were not at first recognized as Middle Men.

The term referred sometimes to all the allies of the [[Dúnedain]], such as the [[Northmen]] and especially the [[Rohirrim]], however usually it referred specifically to the Men of [[Eriador]].
==History==
===Origins===
The [[Edain]] come from the people of [[Men]] who fled [[Hildorien]] and were at war with the [[Men of Darkness]] and fled to the [[West]]. Somewhere in northern [[Rhûn]], they had met the [[Dwarves]].<ref>{{WJ|13}}</ref>

There they were divided in two folks, who would later become [[House of Bëor]] and [[House of Hador|House of Marach]], to the north-east of the [[Sea of Rhûn]] where they dwelt in the woods. The ancestors of the Hadorians dwelt in the north-east of the Sea, in the woods that there came near to the shores. The ancestors of the Beorians had reached the feet of the high hills to the south-west. Because of that distance, they both developed a craft of boat-building but met seldom.<ref>{{PM|XII}}</ref>

The ancestors of the Beorians had been mingling with Men of other kinds and their dialect of [[Taliska]] seemed to the rest to contain alien elements.<ref name=DM/>

The ancestors of the Beorians fled first and the ancestors of the Hadorians learned that only afterwards and followed on their trail through the [[Misty Mountains]] in the North (close to the dreadful [[Iron Mountains]]). Many sub-tribes of both peoples stayed behind, and when the shrinking teams (now led by [[Bëor]] and [[Marach]]) reached [[Beleriand]], those who stayed behind occupied many parts of [[Eriador]] and northern [[Rhovanion]].<ref name=DM/> The latter appear to be akin to the House of Hador.<ref name="Cirion">{{UT|8}}</ref>

===Second Age===
The Men who did not heed the summons of the [[Valar]] and Morgoth fell back in a primitive state, having no contact with the [[Eldar]] or the [[Edain]]. Instead, some of the [[Easterlings (First Age)|evil Men]] who escaped the destruction of [[Beleriand]] came to the east and became their Kings. For this the Men were neglected by the Valar.<ref name=Ak/>

In the early [[Second Age]] the Middle Men were far from the coasts of the [[Westlands]]; some settled, some still wandering, or else had never passed the Misty Mountains and were scattered in eastern Rhovanion.<ref name=DM/> Those learned agriculture thanks to the [[Entwives]], and honoured them.<ref>{{TT|Treebeard}}</ref>

The Men of Eriador were mostly related to the Folk of Bëor and to a lesser degree to the Folk of Hador; some of them might be descendants of the Edain who fled the [[War of Wrath]]. They occupied mostly the shores of [[Lake Evendim]] (some Elves led by [[Galadriel]] and [[Celeborn]] for a while dwelt there side by side with the Men<ref name=GC/>), the [[Weather Hills]] and the [[North Downs]]. They travelled sometimes west of the [[Baranduin]] but did not dwell there. They held the nearby [[Elves of Lindon]] in awe but were friendly to them. But they were afraid to look upon the [[Sea]], no doubt having heard rumours of the deluge of [[Beleriand]].<ref name=atani/><ref name="Wife">{{UT|Wife}}</ref>

In the year {{SA|600}} [[Vëantur]] first returned to [[Middle-earth]] reaching [[Lindon]] from [[Númenor]].<ref>{{UT|Numenor}}</ref> The news spread swiftly and filled with wonder that some of their distant kin had come, they petitioned [[Gil-galad]] to meet the mariners. Twelve messengers came and rejoiced to meet the Númenóreans on the [[Tower Hills]].<ref name="Wife"/> They found a people who spoke languages which were distantly related to the Númenórean tongue, [[Adûnaic]]. Númenórean scholars declared that this was because these Men were descendants of the fathers of the [[Edain]], the [[Atanatári]], who had not crossed the [[Ered Luin]] and entered [[Beleriand]] during the [[First Age]].

The Númenóreans set up friendly relations with them, and declared them to be Middle Men, as opposed to the High Men (the Edain) or the Men of the Shadow (those hostile to Númenor or in the service of [[Sauron]]); this classification was modeled after that for the Elves by the Edain, being the [[High Elves]], the [[Middle Elves]], and the [[Dark Elves]]. In the "Middle Men" they recognised the similar stature and looks, kinship of language and friendliness to the [[West]].<ref name=atani>{{PM|Atani}}</ref>

The Númenóreans began to cultivate their new friends who were into their [[Dark Years]], grown weak and fearful, and taught them agriculture, stonecraft, smithying and their language [[Adûnaic]].<ref name=DM>{{PM|X}}</ref> The Middle Men were comforted, populated the western shores. They revered the memory of the tall Sea-kings whom they remembered as gods hoping each time for their return<ref name=Ak>{{S|Akallabeth}}</ref>

Aldarion's successors continued his works and wrecked the banks, the shorelines, great tracks and roads whom they drove into the forests northwards and southwards from the [[Gwathló]]<ref name="GC">{{UT|Galadriel}}</ref> pushing into [[Minhiriath]] and [[Enedwaith]], establishing themselves inland as far as the river [[Glanduin]], the southern boundary of [[Eregion]].<ref name="GC"/><ref>{{App|Languages}}</ref> The [[Gwathuirim]] of Enedwaith were akin to the [[Folk of Haleth]] but were hostile to the Númenóreans, owing to the deforesting their habitat; as such they weren't considered "Middle Men" by the colonists.<ref name=atani/>

[[Sauron]] recruited [[pre-Númenóreans]] and in the early second millennium he increased pressure on the West, left his stronghold in [[Rhûn]] and relocated in [[Mordor]], drawing closer to the Númenórean sphere of influence. His regular troops attempted to conquer Eriador, hunting and killing Middle Men and the Elves and by {{SA|1700}} had mastered all Eriador, up to the River [[Lhûn]] and besieged [[Rivendell]].<ref name="GC"/> Eriador was already ruined when the Númenórean fleet sent by king [[Tar-Minastir]] caught Mordor's troops in the rear and utterly defeated them, but brought peace in the [[Westlands]].<ref name="GC"/>

As the shadow spread over Númenor, [[Tar-Ciryatan]] sailed to Middle-earth, bringing numerous treasures back to Númenor. Later more lands were occupied, plundered or forced to pay heavy tribute in return for the lives of their inhabitants. Because of these acts they were looked upon in fear, called the "Death" itself and the Men of Middle-earth trembled at the sight of a mighty Númenórean ship on the waters of [[Belegaer]].

In the time of [[Ar-Adûnakhôr]], the settlers of the shores from the [[Gulf of Lune]] to [[Pelargir]] refused to join the rebellion against the [[Valar]] and were joined by exiled [[Faithful]]s who fled the persecution. The term "Middle Men" arose among them.<ref name=atani/>

The Númenóreans eventually ventured north of [[Pelargir]] and also met Men who had settled in valleys on either side of the [[White Mountains]]. So while the term "Middle Men" applied so far to the Men of Eriador they classified those people also as Middle Men, due to their friendliness to the [[West]], and recognized as descendants of the Men who abjured the [[Shadow]].<ref name=atani/>

===Third Age===
After the founding of the Realms in Exile, [[Arnor]] and [[Gondor]], many Middle Men became subjects of the [[Dúnedain]], and eventually intermarried with them until they became one people.

The [[Northmen]] of [[Rhovanion]] were counted as Middle Men, as were most people living in [[Eriador]]. During the [[Third Age]] the term Middle Men was still applied to the Men of [[Bree]], and the remaining Northmen, such as the Men of [[Dale]] and [[Lake-town|Esgaroth]] the Lake-town, and of course the [[Rohirrim]]. King [[Valacar]] of Gondor became so friendly with the Middle Men of Rhovanion that he married [[Vidumavi]], a princess of the Northmen, and his son [[Eldacar (King of Gondor)|Eldacar]] was of mixed blood. This led to the disastrous [[Kin-strife]] of Gondor.

However hostility developed between the Middle Men of the Haladin branch and the Númenóreans, which would endure until the end of the [[Third Age]].

==See also==
*[[Númenóreans|High Men]]
*[[Men of Good Will]]
{{References}}
[[Category:Men]]

Men of Good Will

2025-09-28T17:20:40Z

Protospace: Created page with "The '''Men of Good Will''' was a term Elves used during the Second Age to refer to non-Númenórean Men in Middle-earth who were descended from those who opposed Morgoth during the First Age.<ref name="will">{{NM|Delay}}</ref> The Men of Good Will consisted of tribes "who lived in Eriador and Calenardhon and the Vales of Anduin and in the Great Wood and the plains between that and Mordor and the S..."

The '''Men of Good Will''' was a term [[Elves]] used during the [[Second Age]] to refer to non-[[Númenóreans|Númenórean]] [[Men]] in [[Middle-earth]] who were descended from those who opposed [[Morgoth]] during the [[First Age]].<ref name="will">{{NM|Delay}}</ref> The Men of Good Will consisted of tribes "who lived in [[Eriador]] and [[Calenardhon]] and the [[Vales of Anduin]] and in the [[Great wood|Great Wood]] and the plains between that and [[Mordor]] and the [[Sea of Rhûn]]."<ref name="will" /> These tribes included descendants of the [[Edain]] who remained in Middle-earth during the Second Age and dwelled in Eriador instead of sailing to [[Númenor]]; descendants of the Edain's close kin who had never travelled westward beyond the [[Blue Mountains]] into [[Beleriand]] during the First Age; "and others of remoter kin."<ref name="will" />

== See also ==
* [[Middle Men]]

{{References}}

[[Category:Men]]

Talk:Dwarves

2024-11-04T06:05:55Z

Protospace: /* "loved and revered" */

There needs to be a history of the Dwarves on here.

Yes. I suggest you register and help create it. Dwarvish history is large enough it deserves its own article, yet small enough that it wouldn't be so long as, say, an Elvish history article, which would practically be an article on the [[First Age]], and a little on the Second and Third ages. We should probably write a chronological article and then place a timeline at the bottom. I don't have time at the moment, but I hope to get to it tomorrow. --[[User:Narfil Palùrfalas|Narfil Palùrfalas]] 22:49, 18 August 2006 (EDT)

Lifespan 250 years is particularly closely adhered to in the timeline/genealogies (and sons born at father's age either 101 or 102!), but this is for the Longbeards who we are told to be the longest-lived of the Houses.--[[User:Osric|Osric]] 12:43, 14 November 2006 (EST)

:I would like to know the source of the fact that longbeards were particularly long-lived out of all other dwarves. i'm pretty sure its speculation. --[[User:Kulid123|Kulid123]] 22:45, 17 February 2019 (UTC)

==Uncited Quotations==

Just wanted to mention that the later half of the Nature section (first 4 of the last 5 paragraphs in the section) contain verbatim quotations from "Appendix A, Durin's Folk" without being placed in quotations, block quotes or appropriately cited as being written by Tolkien (as opposed to being written by a wiki user). While I realize citing a source is generally sufficient with paraphrased, or short duplicated material, entire paragraphs seems another matter. I'm not sure if this is intentional or desirable, but thought I should raise the question at least. (Sorry, but I am not interested in editing any more wikis.) -- [[Special:Contributions/208.54.36.231|208.54.36.231]] 15:32, 9 February 2012 (UTC)

:Notice the "Sources" tag at the top. It needs work. --{{User:Ederchil/sig}} 16:23, 9 February 2012 (UTC)

So the article is fine the way its structured ? Just need to go in and find citations for unsorced works??
[[User:Neumanjames 2010|Throrin Longbeard]] 09:18, 3 April 2014 (UTC)

==Height==
"They were 4.5 - 5 feet (1.35 - 1.52 m) tall" -- I would like to know the source for this information. --Tik 20:22, 1 November 2017 (UTC)
:Their physical characteristics are covered in ''[[The War of the Jewels]]'' which is why it is sourced at the end of that line.

::There is no mention of size in the HOME 11 chapter "Concerning the Dwarves", only a mention about beards which is in this phrase. But in the Nature of Middle-earth part 2 chap 6 it is said : "Dwarves were about 4 ft. high at least." and speaking about the Bayne's painting : "Gimli is about the height that the hobbits should have been, but was probably somewhat taller; the hobbits should have been between 3 ft. 4 and 3 ft. 6." That let not think of a Gimli much taller than 4 feet. That's why I think that Dwarves are not so tall : maybe between 4 and 4,5 feet. [[User:Erendis|Erendis]] 10:46, 21 May 2022 (UTC)Erendis

==Wicked dwarves?==

should i add a section describing wicked dwarves? let me know asap. --[[User:Kulid123|Kulid123]] 22:45, 17 February 2019 (UTC)

=="loved and revered"==

The article says that the Dwarves "loved and revered the Vala Aulë." To support this claim, a certain passage of "The Silmarillion" is quoted (Quenta Silmarillion: Of the Sindar). That passage does not say that it were the Dwarves who "loved and revered Aulë", though. The respective sentence rather means that it were the Exiled Noldor who "loved and revered the Vala Aulë" -- and because of that these Elves were liked by the Dwarves. [[User:Dreisam|Dreisam]] ([[User talk:Dreisam|talk]]) 21:20, 6 October 2024 (UTC)
:If the Dwarves liked the Noldor because the Noldor loved and revered Aulë, I think it's more than a fair inference to say that the Dwarves themselves likewise loved and revered Aulë. [[User:Protospace|Protospace]] ([[User talk:Protospace|talk]]) 01:56, 3 November 2024 (UTC)
::I agree, but when I noticed this thread, I decided to add the original information too. It is a detail that distinguishes Tolkien's works from modern fantasy stereotypes. "this shared love made them friendly towards Noldor" I am sorry, I am not sure that I phrased it correctly. Besides, the "Religion" section is not the best place for it, but it is an extension of a fact about their relationship with a Vala and I could not see a separate section for relations with other people (I hope that I did not overlook that this information was already present in the article). [[User:BartekChom|BartekChom]] ([[User talk:BartekChom|talk]]) 06:48, 3 November 2024 (UTC)
:This is one of the silliest 'well...ackshually' criticisms I've ever seen. [[User:IvarTheBoneless|IvarTheBoneless]] ([[User talk:IvarTheBoneless|talk]]) 10:14, 3 November 2024 (UTC)
::No need to deride Dreisam over it. We're all nerds here who spend way too much time overanalyzing Tolkien's words. [[User:Protospace|Protospace]] ([[User talk:Protospace|talk]]) 06:05, 4 November 2024 (UTC)

User talk:ProjetoTolkien

2024-11-04T05:22:34Z

Protospace: /* Maps of Beleriand and Eriador */ sorry for the typo!

'''{{PAGENAME}}, welcome!'''

Hello and [[Tolkien Gateway:Welcome|welcome]] to '''[[Tolkien Gateway]]'''. I hope you like the place and choose to join our work. Here are a few good links for newcomers:
*Internal pages:
**[[Tolkien Gateway:To-do|To-do list]]
**[[Tolkien Gateway:Manual of Style|Standards]]
**[[Forums:Council|Council forums]]
**[[Special:Recentchanges|Recent changes]]
*External Wikipedia pages:
**[[Wikipedia:Wikipedia:How to edit a page|How to edit a page]]
**[[Wikipedia:Wikipedia:Tutorial|Editing, policy, conduct, and structure tutorial]]
**[[Wikipedia:Wikipedia:Picture tutorial|Picture tutorial]]
**[[Wikipedia:Wikipedia:How to write a great article|How to write a great article]]

I hope you enjoy editing here and we look forward to your future edits. By the way, you can sign your name on Talk and vote pages using three tildes, like this: ~<nowiki>~~</nowiki>. Four tildes (~~<nowiki>~~</nowiki>) produces your name and the current date. If you have any questions, see the [[Help:Contents|help pages]], add a question to the [[Forums:Council|Council forums]] or ask me on [[User talk:Hyarion|my talk page]]. Keep up the great work! — [[User:Hyarion|Hyarion]]

== Maps of Beleriand and Eriador ==

Hi ProjetoTolkien,

Can I just say how much I absolutely love [[Beleriand#/media/File:Middle-earth and Beleriand Map (2).png|your map]] of Beleriand and Eriador? It's fantastic that someone put the information in The Nature of Middle-earth to good use and finally created the closest thing we'll ever have to a "canon" map of how Beleriand and Eriador connected.

Please feel free to ignore this request if it impinges too much on your time, but would you consider making another combined map of Beleriand and Eriador, but this time with the overlapping region putting the First Age map of Beleriand on top, instead of the Third Age map? In other words, a combined map just like the one you already made, but reversing which of the two maps goes over the other. I hope that makes sense. Would love to see it if you have time. Regardless, thanks again for making the map you did! [[User:Protospace|Protospace]] ([[User talk:Protospace|talk]]) 05:20, 4 November 2024 (UTC) [[User:Protospace|Protospace]]

User talk:ProjetoTolkien

2024-11-04T05:22:03Z

Protospace: /* Maps of Beleriand and Eriador */

'''{{PAGENAME}}, welcome!'''

Hello and [[Tolkien Gateway:Welcome|welcome]] to '''[[Tolkien Gateway]]'''. I hope you like the place and choose to join our work. Here are a few good links for newcomers:
*Internal pages:
**[[Tolkien Gateway:To-do|To-do list]]
**[[Tolkien Gateway:Manual of Style|Standards]]
**[[Forums:Council|Council forums]]
**[[Special:Recentchanges|Recent changes]]
*External Wikipedia pages:
**[[Wikipedia:Wikipedia:How to edit a page|How to edit a page]]
**[[Wikipedia:Wikipedia:Tutorial|Editing, policy, conduct, and structure tutorial]]
**[[Wikipedia:Wikipedia:Picture tutorial|Picture tutorial]]
**[[Wikipedia:Wikipedia:How to write a great article|How to write a great article]]

I hope you enjoy editing here and we look forward to your future edits. By the way, you can sign your name on Talk and vote pages using three tildes, like this: ~<nowiki>~~</nowiki>. Four tildes (~~<nowiki>~~</nowiki>) produces your name and the current date. If you have any questions, see the [[Help:Contents|help pages]], add a question to the [[Forums:Council|Council forums]] or ask me on [[User talk:Hyarion|my talk page]]. Keep up the great work! — [[User:Hyarion|Hyarion]]

== Maps of Beleriand and Eriador ==

Hi ProjecetoTolkien,

Can I just say how much I absolutely love [[Beleriand#/media/File:Middle-earth and Beleriand Map (2).png|your map]] of Beleriand and Eriador? It's fantastic that someone put the information in The Nature of Middle-earth to good use and finally created the closest thing we'll ever have to a "canon" map of how Beleriand and Eriador connected.

Please feel free to ignore this request if it impinges too much on your time, but would you consider making another combined map of Beleriand and Eriador, but this time with the overlapping region putting the First Age map of Beleriand on top, instead of the Third Age map? In other words, a combined map just like the one you already made, but reversing which of the two maps goes over the other. I hope that makes sense. Would love to see it if you have time. Regardless, thanks again for making the map you did! [[User:Protospace|Protospace]] ([[User talk:Protospace|talk]]) 05:20, 4 November 2024 (UTC) [[User:Protospace|Protospace]]

User talk:ProjetoTolkien

2024-11-04T05:20:37Z

Protospace: /* Maps of Beleriand and Eriador */ new section

'''{{PAGENAME}}, welcome!'''

Hello and [[Tolkien Gateway:Welcome|welcome]] to '''[[Tolkien Gateway]]'''. I hope you like the place and choose to join our work. Here are a few good links for newcomers:
*Internal pages:
**[[Tolkien Gateway:To-do|To-do list]]
**[[Tolkien Gateway:Manual of Style|Standards]]
**[[Forums:Council|Council forums]]
**[[Special:Recentchanges|Recent changes]]
*External Wikipedia pages:
**[[Wikipedia:Wikipedia:How to edit a page|How to edit a page]]
**[[Wikipedia:Wikipedia:Tutorial|Editing, policy, conduct, and structure tutorial]]
**[[Wikipedia:Wikipedia:Picture tutorial|Picture tutorial]]
**[[Wikipedia:Wikipedia:How to write a great article|How to write a great article]]

I hope you enjoy editing here and we look forward to your future edits. By the way, you can sign your name on Talk and vote pages using three tildes, like this: ~<nowiki>~~</nowiki>. Four tildes (~~<nowiki>~~</nowiki>) produces your name and the current date. If you have any questions, see the [[Help:Contents|help pages]], add a question to the [[Forums:Council|Council forums]] or ask me on [[User talk:Hyarion|my talk page]]. Keep up the great work! — [[User:Hyarion|Hyarion]]

== Maps of Beleriand and Eriador ==

Hi ProjecetoTolkien,

Can I just say how much I absolutely love [[Beleriand#/media/File:Middle-earth and Beleriand Map (2).png|your map]] of Beleriand and Eriador? It's fantastic that someone put the information in The Nature of Middle-earth to good use and finally created the closest thing we'll ever have to a "canon" map of how Beleriand and Eriador connected.

Please feel free to ignore this request if it impinges too much on your time, but would you consider making another combined map of Beleriand and Eriador, but this time with the overlapping region putting the First Age map of Beleriand on top, instead of the Third Age map? In other words, a combined map just like the one you already made, but reversing which of the two maps goes over the other. I hope that makes sense. Would love to see it if you have time. Regardless, thanks again for making the map you did! [[User:Protospace|Protospace]] ([[User talk:Protospace|talk]]) 05:20, 4 November 2024 (UTC) [[User:Protospace|Protospace]] ([[User talk:Protospace|talk]]) 05:20, 4 November 2024 (UTC)

Talk:Dwarves

2024-11-03T01:56:21Z

Protospace: /* "loved and revered" */

There needs to be a history of the Dwarves on here.

Yes. I suggest you register and help create it. Dwarvish history is large enough it deserves its own article, yet small enough that it wouldn't be so long as, say, an Elvish history article, which would practically be an article on the [[First Age]], and a little on the Second and Third ages. We should probably write a chronological article and then place a timeline at the bottom. I don't have time at the moment, but I hope to get to it tomorrow. --[[User:Narfil Palùrfalas|Narfil Palùrfalas]] 22:49, 18 August 2006 (EDT)

Lifespan 250 years is particularly closely adhered to in the timeline/genealogies (and sons born at father's age either 101 or 102!), but this is for the Longbeards who we are told to be the longest-lived of the Houses.--[[User:Osric|Osric]] 12:43, 14 November 2006 (EST)

:I would like to know the source of the fact that longbeards were particularly long-lived out of all other dwarves. i'm pretty sure its speculation. --[[User:Kulid123|Kulid123]] 22:45, 17 February 2019 (UTC)

== Uncited Quotations ==

Just wanted to mention that the later half of the Nature section (first 4 of the last 5 paragraphs in the section) contain verbatim quotations from "Appendix A, Durin's Folk" without being placed in quotations, block quotes or appropriately cited as being written by Tolkien (as opposed to being written by a wiki user). While I realize citing a source is generally sufficient with paraphrased, or short duplicated material, entire paragraphs seems another matter. I'm not sure if this is intentional or desirable, but thought I should raise the question at least. (Sorry, but I am not interested in editing any more wikis.) -- [[Special:Contributions/208.54.36.231|208.54.36.231]] 15:32, 9 February 2012 (UTC)

:Notice the "Sources" tag at the top. It needs work. --{{User:Ederchil/sig}} 16:23, 9 February 2012 (UTC)

So the article is fine the way its structured ? Just need to go in and find citations for unsorced works??
[[User:Neumanjames 2010|Throrin Longbeard]] 09:18, 3 April 2014 (UTC)

== Height ==
"They were 4.5 - 5 feet (1.35 - 1.52 m) tall" -- I would like to know the source for this information. --Tik 20:22, 1 November 2017 (UTC)
: Their physical characteristics are covered in ''[[The War of the Jewels]]'' which is why it is sourced at the end of that line.

:: There is no mention of size in the HOME 11 chapter "Concerning the Dwarves", only a mention about beards which is in this phrase. But in the Nature of Middle-earth part 2 chap 6 it is said : "Dwarves were about 4 ft. high at least." and speaking about the Bayne's painting : "Gimli is about the height that the hobbits should have been, but was probably somewhat taller; the hobbits should have been between 3 ft. 4 and 3 ft. 6." That let not think of a Gimli much taller than 4 feet. That's why I think that Dwarves are not so tall : maybe between 4 and 4,5 feet. [[User:Erendis|Erendis]] 10:46, 21 May 2022 (UTC)Erendis

== Wicked dwarves? ==

should i add a section describing wicked dwarves? let me know asap. --[[User:Kulid123|Kulid123]] 22:45, 17 February 2019 (UTC)

== "loved and revered" ==

The article says that the Dwarves "loved and revered the Vala Aulë." To support this claim, a certain passage of "The Silmarillion" is quoted (Quenta Silmarillion: Of the Sindar). That passage does not say that it were the Dwarves who "loved and revered Aulë", though. The respective sentence rather means that it were the Exiled Noldor who "loved and revered the Vala Aulë" -- and because of that these Elves were liked by the Dwarves. [[User:Dreisam|Dreisam]] ([[User talk:Dreisam|talk]]) 21:20, 6 October 2024 (UTC)
:If the Dwarves liked the Noldor because the Noldor loved and revered Aulë, I think it's more than a fair inference to say that the Dwarves themselves likewise loved and revered Aulë. [[User:Protospace|Protospace]] ([[User talk:Protospace|talk]]) 01:56, 3 November 2024 (UTC)

Blue Wizards

2024-10-31T02:12:10Z

Protospace: Removed "Claimed" template per the Template:Claimed rules disallowing its use for more than "several months"; please see talk page

{{Expansion}}

{{infobox character
| people-duplicated=[[Maiar|Maia]]
| name=Blue Wizards
| people=[[Maiar]] ([[Wizards]])
| image=Daniel Pilla - The Blue Wizards.jpg
| caption="The Blue Wizards" by [[:Category:Images by Daniel Pilla|Daniel Pilla]]
| pronun=
| othernames=Earlier writings: ''Alatar'' and ''Pallando'' Later writings: ''Morinehtar'' and ''Rómestámo''; ''Palacendo'' and ''Haimenar''
| titles=
| position=
| location=[[Rhûn]] and [[Harad]]<ref name="UTIstari"/>
| affiliation=[[Order of Wizards]]
| language=[[Valarin]]
| birth=
| birthlocation=
| rule=
| death=
| deathlocation=
| age=
| notablefor=
| house=
| parentage=
| siblings=
| spouse=
| children=
| gender=Male
| height=
| hair=
| eyes=
| clothing=Sea-blue
| weapons=
| steed=
| gallery=the Blue Wizards
}}

The '''Blue Wizards''' ([[Sindarin|S.]] '''''Ithryn Luin''''')<ref group="note">The term "Blue Wizards" is mentioned only in an "essay" and is the only source where they are assigned a colour; although Tolkien revisited the concept of the remaining two Wizards, giving them different names and backgrounds, their assigned colour (whether blue or other) or title, is never specified again. However the term "Blue Wizards" is used by the fans to refer to all concepts of these two Wizards.</ref> were the two [[Wizards]] (''Istari)'' who were sent into the far [[Rhun|East]] and [[Harad|South]] of [[Middle-earth]] to contest the will of [[Sauron]], but never returned.

==Other versions of the legendarium==
[[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien's]] conception of the two Blue Wizards changed dramatically between his earlier and later writings.
===Earlier writings===
The idea that there were two other [[Wizards]] in addition to [[Gandalf]], [[Saruman]], and [[Radagast]] was first conceived when Saruman, in his wrath, revealed that there were five members of the Order of Wizards:
{{Blockquote|Later! Yes, when you [Gandalf] also have the Keys of Barad-dûr itself, I suppose; and the crowns of seven kings, and the rods of the Five Wizards...|[[Saruman]] in ''[[The Two Towers]]'', "[[The Voice of Saruman]]"}}

Nothing more was said of these two Wizards in ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' as it was published. However, whilst preparing (in [[1954]]) an index for ''[[The Return of the King]]'', Tolkien wrote what his [[Christopher Tolkien|son]] later referred to as the 'essay on the Istari'. There it is said that of the chief Wizards who went to the North of [[Middle-earth]] there were five, and two of these were clad in sea-blue. Little was known about these two in the West of Middle-earth; even their individual names were unknown, but they were known collectively as ''Ithryn Luin'', or "Blue Wizards". It is said they travelled into the East with Curunír (Saruman), but they did not return into the West. Their fate was unknown, but some held that they fell into evil and became servants of [[Sauron]].<ref name="UTIstari">{{UT|Istari}}</ref>

Tolkien expanded upon this last point in a letter written in [[1958]]:
{{Blockquote|I really do not know anything clearly about the other two [wizards] – since they do not concern the history of the N[orth].W[est]. I think they went as emissaries to distant regions, East and South, far out of Númenórean range: missionaries to 'enemy-occupied' lands, as it were. What success they had I do not know; but I fear that they failed, as Saruman did, though doubtless in different ways; and I suspect they were founders or beginners of secret cults and 'magic' traditions that outlasted the fall of Sauron.|[[Letter 211]]<ref name="Letter211">{{L|211}}</ref>}}

[[File:Tom Cross - Alatar - Darkness-slayer.jpg|thumb|''Alatar: Darkness-slayer'' by Tom Cross<ref group="note">Tolkien did not associate Alatar with Morinehtar (which means "Darkness-slayer") and they should not be considered synonymous.</ref>]]

Tolkien also suggests that only Gandalf returned to [[Valinor]]:

{{Blockquote|Wilt thou learn the lore <nowiki>||</nowiki> that was long secret of the Five that came <nowiki>||</nowiki> from a far country? One only returned. <nowiki>||</nowiki> Others never again|''[[Unfinished Tales]]'', "[[The Istari]]"<ref name="UTIstari"/>}}

In a brief narrative about a council of the [[Valar]], the origins of the other two Wizards are placed alongside those of the known three, Curumo (Saruman), [[Radagast|Aiwendil]] (Radagast), and Olórin (Gandalf). Whilst in the essay on the Istari the Blue Wizards were given no names, here these two are called Alatar and Pallando. [[Oromë]] chose Alatar to send to Middle-earth (to contest the will of Sauron), and Alatar decided to bring along Pallando as his friend. Christopher Tolkien has speculated that their association with Oromë could be because he was the Vala who had the greatest knowledge of the furthest regions of Middle-earth, and hence that is where the two Wizards journeyed.<ref name="UTIstari" />

[[File:Angus McBride - Pallando.jpg|''Pallando'' by [[Angus McBride]]|thumb]]

Based on the above material, the history of the two "Blue Wizards" can be determined as the following:

*[[Manwë]] summons a council of the Valar. They decide to send emissaries to Middle-earth. Oromë chooses to send Alatar, and Alatar brings along his friend Pallando.<ref name="UTIstari" />
*The two Wizards arrive in Middle-earth at roughly the same time as the other wizards, c. {{TA|1000}}<ref name="AppB2">{{App|B2}}</ref>
*The two, known as the "Blue Wizards", travel into the East of Middle-earth with Saruman. Saruman returns to the North-West, but the two do not.<ref name="UTIstari" />
*Together or independent of each other, the two fall from their appointed task. They may have founded "magic" cults amongst the peoples of the East and South, which existed beyond the downfall of Sauron.<ref name="Letter211" />

===Later writings===
[[File:Jef Murray - Slayer of Darkness.jpg|''Slayer of Darkness'' by [[Jef Murray]]|thumb]]

Towards the end of his life, Tolkien returned to the issue of the other two Wizards. In a brief outline he noted that the two Wizards were sent to [[Middle-earth]] in the [[Second Age]] and were destined to disrupt the work of [[Sauron]] in the East:

{{Blockquote|Their task was to circumvent Sauron: to bring help to the few tribes of [[Men]] that had rebelled from [[Melkor]]-worship, to stir up rebellion ... and after his first fall to search out his hiding (in which they failed) and to cause [?dissension and disarray] among the dark East ... They must have had very great influence on the history of the [[Second Age]] and [[Third Age]] in weakening and disarraying the forces of East ... who would both in the Second Age and Third Age otherwise have ... outnumbered the West.|"[[Last Writings]]", ''[[The Peoples of Middle-earth]]''<ref name="PMLast">{{PM|Last}}, pp. 384-85</ref>}}

Therefore, Tolkien dramatically altered his conception of the two [[Wizards]]. They no longer arrived in Middle-earth along with [[Saruman]], [[Gandalf]], and [[Radagast]] in c. {{TA|1000}}. Instead they arrived much earlier, at roughly the same time as [[Glorfindel]] in c. {{SA|1600}}. Whilst Glorfindel was tasked with aiding [[Gil-galad]] and [[Elrond]] with the war in [[Eriador]], the Wizards were destined to journey to the East. Instead of mentioning that they drifted from their mission, Tolkien points out that they played a decisive role in the downfall of Sauron at the end of both the [[Second Age]] and the [[Third Age]]. They were known as Morinehtar and Rómestámo, "Darkness-slayer" and "East-helper", and were successful in preventing the forces of the East from outnumbering those of the [[Free peoples]] in the West.<ref name="PMLast" />

Based on these later writings, a history of the two Wizards can be summarised as the following:<ref name="PMLast" />

*The two Wizards were known as Morinehtar and Rómestámo, "Darkness-slayer" and "East-helper".
*The two Wizards were sent to Middle-earth at roughly the same time as Glorfindel in c. {{SA|1600}} (and similarly at the behest of the Valar), the Year of Dread, when Sauron forged [[The One Ring]] and completed the building of [[Barad-dûr]].
*The two Wizards journeyed into the East of Middle-earth, where they remained.
*They were tasked with finding Sauron's hiding place in the East. They failed.
*They brought "help to the few tribes of Men [in the East] that had rebelled from Melkor-worship," and they encouraged rebellion against Sauron.<ref name="PMLast" /> They were able to hinder Sauron's gathering and training of armies in the East in the Second Age, aiding the defeat of Sauron in the [[War of the Elves and Sauron]] and beyond.<ref>{{NM|P3xviii}}</ref>
*They ensured that Sauron's forces in the East did not outnumber the West, thus ultimately helping secure victory for the Free peoples against Sauron in the [[War of the Ring]].

==Etymology==
The [[Sindarin]] name ''Ithryn Luin'' consists of ''[[ithron|ithryn]]'' ("wizards"; plural of ''ithron'') and ''[[luin]]'' ("blue").<ref name="UTIndex">{{UT|Index}}</ref>

==Νames and etymologies==
''Alatar'' and ''Pallando'' are [[Quenya]] names. The first is not clear, and possibly contains the Quenya elements for "radiance" (cf. [[Alatariel]]) and/or the ending ''-[[tar]]'' "lord" (cf. [[Annatar]]).<ref name="alatar-haimenar">{{webcite|author=Paul Strack|articleurl=https://eldamo.org/content/words/word-163516871.html|website=[[Eldamo]]|accessed=20 September 2023}}</ref>
''Pallando'', according to [[Christopher Tolkien]], possibly contains the element ''[[palan]]-'' "far"<ref name="UTIstari" />{{rp|401}}

''Morinehtar'' is described as meaning "Darkness-slayer",<ref name="pome" /> likely based on the Quenya words ''[[mori-]]'' ("darkness") and ''nehtar'' ("slayer").<ref>{{webcite|author=[[Helge Fauskanger]]|articleurl=http://www.uib.no/people/hnohf/quen-eng.rtf|articlename=Quenya-English Wordlist|website=[http://www.uib.no/people/hnohf Ardalambion]|accessed=12-September-2012}}</ref>

''Rómestámo'' or ''Róme(n)star'' is a Quenya name meaning "East-helper".<ref name="pome">{{PM|Last}}, pp. 384-5, 391, note 28</ref>

If they were among the Maiar sent to [[Cuiviénen]] with the other [[Five Guardians|Guardians]] to protect the first Elves, they would have been called '''''Palacendo''''' ("*Far sighted one") and '''''Haimenar''''' ("*Far-farer") at the time.<ref name="alatar-haimenar" /><ref>{{NM|P1xiii}}, "Notes", p. 102, note 7</ref>

==Portrayal in adaptations==
The Blue Wizards have not appeared physically in any adaptation of [[Middle-earth]] works so far, and they are mentioned and implied only in the following adaptations:

'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''
:The Khundolar tribe of the [[Easterlings]] had among them the "Blue Caste" of sorcerers. Their Master, "Yirokhsar the Blue", forbade his followers to march with the Dark Lord's forces, but many still joined their kings who had fallen under the sway of [[Sauron]]. Also, the Jangovar Easterlings viewed Sauron as a god, but were confused why their master, "Yetkeyin the Violet", refused to obey Sauron.

'''2012: ''[[The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey]]'':'''
:[[Gandalf]] mentions the Blue Wizards when he explains the number of Wizards, and says that he has forgotten their names.
:
:
:Since the film production team did not have the rights to include material from sources other than ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', the decision to include the line "Blue Wizards" (only appearing in ''[[Unfinished Tales]]''<ref>{{HM|RC}}, p. 244</ref>) has been regarded as legally controversial.<ref>{{webcite|author=[[Janet Brennan Croft]]|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130731034017/http://groups.yahoo.com/group/mythsoc/message/23828|articlename=Source Material (message #23828)|dated=17 December 2012|website=[http://groups.yahoo.com/group/mythsoc/ MythSoc mailing list]|accessed=27 February 2023}}</ref>

'''2014: ''[[Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor]]'':'''
:[[File:Middle-earth- Shadow of War .png|thumb|312x312px|An azurite figurine of the Blue Wizards in ''Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor'']]In the game, three artefacts describe the encounter of two Wizards whose names could not be remembered travelling side by side into [[Mordor]]. It is implied to be the Blue Wizards from the description of the artefact. Furthermore, a figurine depicting them has been carved out of azurite, a blue stone. More lore tells the player that the [[Black Hand]] could have been a king that brought Sauron the heads of two Istari. Whether or not this is true is unknown.

{{References|Notes}}
{{Ainur}}
[[Category:Maiar]]
[[Category:Second Age characters]]
[[Category:Third Age characters]]
[[Category:Wizards]]

[[de:Ithryn Luin]]
[[fi:Siniset velhot]]
[[fr:encyclo/personnages/ainur/maiar/istari/ithryn luin]]

Talk:Blue Wizards

2024-10-31T02:10:14Z

Protospace: /* Status as a "claimed" article */

I don't think it's all that controversial that Gandalf mentioned the Blue Wizards. I disagree that Gandalf would ever have revealed the number and names of the Wizards to anyone so readily, but the Blue Wizards are (IIRC) in the LOTR Appendices. Thankfully they're not named - if they had the right to ''Unfinished Tales'' and named them as "Alatar and Pallando" in the film I would have been very annoyed!--{{User:KingAragorn/sig}} 16:40, 17 December 2012 (UTC)

:Well, according to Bratman and Brennan Croft, the name "Blue Wizards" does not appear in the LotR. But it might be worth to check!--[[User:Morgan|Morgan]] 16:44, 17 December 2012 (UTC)

::I hadn't thought of that. However, with the source, it can stay, imo. --{{User:Ederchil/sig}} 17:34, 17 December 2012 (UTC)

:::I think the film makers can get away with it. LOTR does say there were five wizards and the Tolkien Estate can't sue over the attribution of the colour blue to the two unnamed wizards.--{{User:KingAragorn/sig}} 17:40, 17 December 2012 (UTC)

::::They certainly ''try'' to get away with it. But as Janet Croft says (who is credited as advisor to PJ's ''The Hobbit''): "it’s okay to say five, and that they went east, but '''not to say they were blue''''" (my emphasis). So, the controversy is there, and from a notable source -- nothing to argue about! --[[User:Morgan|Morgan]] 17:59, 17 December 2012 (UTC)

:::::I'm not arguing that there isn't a controversy, I'm joining in it! ;) I disagree with Janet Brennan Croft; I think it is OK to say that they were blue. If it was a problem, they could have easily have used a different colour to describe them.--{{User:KingAragorn/sig}} 18:08, 17 December 2012 (UTC)

The texts says that in the last writings, the Blue Wizards came in the Second Age, and were called Morinethar and Romestano in Middle Earth. However, there's a note of the same period (also given in HoME XII: Last Writings) that contradicts pretty much all this: "No names are recorded for the two wizards. They were never seen or known in lands west of Mordor. The wizards did not come at the same time. Possibly Saruman, Gandalf, Radagast did, but more likely Saruman the chief (and already overmindful of this) came first and alone." That is, they had no names (other than, possibly, their original names Alatar and Pallando) and arrived after Saruman. So, what version should be chosen? {{Unsigned|95.22.115.34}}

:I don't think we need to choose a version. As the introduction of the article states now, "Tolkien's conception of the two Blue Wizards changed dramatically between his earlier and later writings".--[[User:Morgan|Morgan]] 13:55, 30 January 2014 (UTC)

::Yes but the problem is, there's not one early version and one later version that overrided the other. There are actually one early version, and two (contradictory) later versions. The article only mentions one of them.{{Unsigned|95.22.115.34}}

:::Thanks for the clarification. I'll see if I can draw editor KingAragorn's attention to the issue, who rewrote this article substantially quite recently. P.S. Why not create an account at Tolkien Gateway? :-) --[[User:Morgan|Morgan]] 15:53, 30 January 2014 (UTC)

::::I thought about creating an account, but I don't really edit much, unless I just happen to stumble about something that I know well. In this case, it may not be even neccesary to edit the article much, since the other late version agrees with the early one. What about presenting both as alternate stories, instead of one being the early, rejected one, and the other the definitive?{{Unsigned|95.22.115.34}}

:::::I spoke with KingAragorn, and he will give the matter attention.--[[User:Morgan|Morgan]] 22:06, 31 January 2014 (UTC)

== When Did the Blue Wizards Arrive in Middle Earth? ==

The article gives two approximate years, c. T.A. 1000 in the early writings, and c. S.A. 1600 in the late writings; but in the late writings (i.e., ''Peoples of Middle Earth''), Tolkien says that their original mission (in which they failed) was to find Sauron's hiding place in the East "after his first fall". Sauron first fell at the end of the First Age, and went into hiding in the East, returning to the West as Annatar c. S.A. 500. Sauron was again defeated in S.A. 1701, and driven from Eriador, but then he seems to have taken refuge in Mordor, not hidden himself in the East. He apparently rebuilt his power in Mordor, and was again defeated by the Numenorians in S.A. 3262, and taken captive to Numenor. His physical form was destroyed in the downfall of Numenor, but his spirit fled to Mordor, where he again took physical form, and he was again defeated by the Last Alliance in S.A. 3441.

Doesn't all this mean that (according to the late account) the Blue Wizards must have reached Middle Earth sometime before S.A. 500? Why does the article say S.A. 1600? What have I overlooked?

[[User:Jdcrutch|Jdcrutch]] 18:52, 14 May 2018 (UTC)

:I would imagine Tolkien did not regard the end of the First Age as Sauron's first fall. --{{User:Mith/sig}} 17:43, 18 July 2018 (UTC)
==Prose==
Unlike all other articles, this one is writtten from a reader's point of view. I suggest choosing one version (perhaps the latest) and put everything else under "Other versions" as well as footnotes. Note that the term "Blue Wizards" appears only in the UT text. The "penciled notes" on the reverse side doesn't assign a color to the "Two Wizards", so perhaps a "Blue Wizards" article should concentrate on the UT version. [[User:Sage|Sage]] 08:39, 4 February 2019 (UTC)
:After thinking about this I suggest maintaining a Blue Wizards article about Allatar and Pallando and all the UT tradition. We can mention Romestamo and Morinehtar in a secondary "Other versions" section ''and'' disperse information about them in other articles ([[Wizards]], [[Easterlings]], [[East]], [[Second Age]] etc). Tolkien himself seemed unsure while writing his notes about them, as if he was interpreting contradicting traditions and hearsay (Indeed, the Two Wizards seem so elusive that only rumors about them would reach the Red Book or any Fourth Age "source"). I think Tolkien's prose entitles us to write about them in a similar manner, with weasel words like "It is said that...", as legends. This way we can avoid interpretation, speculation and OR, and choosing or favoring one version. Cf. the article on [[Elfstone]] where I handled a similarly challenging matter. [[User:Sage|Sage]] 08:57, 4 February 2019 (UTC)

:I agree this needs rewriting - the article is currently an essay on Tolkien's texts rather than the characters themselves. I agree with your approach. --{{User:Mith/sig}} 08:35, 11 February 2019 (UTC)

:: This one is particularly challenging to keep "in universe", but your approach sounds like a good compromise. Since I wrote this 'essay' and regularly link people to it who ask about the Blue Wizards, I might move it elsewhere on the web. --{{User:KingAragorn/sig}} 11:33, 12 March 2019 (UTC)

:I notice that Tolkien mentions "Blue Wizards" or "Ithryn Luin" only once in his notes. In all others, mentioning Allatar, Romestamo etc the 2 wizards aren't assigned a color, and each text is independent from the other (one doesn't seem to elaborate on the previous one). To say that the "Alatar and Pallando were the Blue Wizards" is syncretism. [[User:Sage|Sage]] 09:55, 19 September 2019 (UTC)

==New names==
Fresh publication of “The Nature of Middle Earth” by Carl Hostetter mentions FA names of what appear the two blue wizards as Palacendo and Haimenar, being deployed by Oromë in DB 866, to defend the Quendi from early Melkor. Page 95. I’m not familiar with how this site manages conflicting or inconsistent details on Tolkien’s less-published writings but this little snippet is pretty interesting, as it shows the Istari (and in this case Melian) deployed by the Valar against Melkor at a very early date! {{unsigned|108.162.245.231}}
:Thanks, I noticed that. We are slowly including the new info around the wiki. --[[User:Quentandil|Quentandil]] 07:26, 22 September 2021 (UTC)
:Indeed; it makes sense that these two additional Guardians of Cuiviénen were the Blue Wizards, given that Saruman, Gandalf, and Radagast were there. But we can't say definitively that Palacendo and Haimenar were the Blue Wizards, as Tolkien never specifically identified them as such (unlike Saruman, Gandalf, and Radagast). So if this information is included in the article, it should be hedged using words like "maybe" because it is, ultimately, speculation. Informed speculation, but speculation nonetheless. [[User:Protospace|Protospace]] 06:59, 24 September 2021 (UTC)

== Errors within text. ==

'''As this article is claimed I am informing the claimant of these errors in lieu of doing the edits myself.'''

'''Edit: After speaking with Hyarion I am fixing the following errors. X's to the left of the edits are being used to check off each edit.'''

X There are two instances of the word "color" within the note at the bottom of the page which should be corrected to "colour" in accordance with the British English style rule.

X Istari should be mentioned in the intro as the word it is mentioned later with no context. I put it in parentheses but if someone thinks something else is more appropriate, feel free to edit.

X In "Earlier writings" the word "wizards" should be capitalized to read "Wizards" in accordance with the rest of the text.

X In "Earlier writings" the Gandalf quote should end in an ellipsis as the sentence the quote was from is not finished and should therefore read "Later! Yes, when you [Gandalf] also have the Keys of Barad-dûr itself, I suppose; and the crowns of seven kings, and the rods of the Five Wizards..."

X In "Earlier writings" "North West" should either be hyphenated as "North-West" or made into the compound word "Northwest."

X In "Earlier writings" after ''Ithryn Luin'' "Blue Wizards" should be in quotes as it is a translation of the name ''Ithryn Luin.''

X In "Earlier writings" Sauron is referred to as "The Lord of the Rings" and Sauron is linked again. This should be changed to Sauron to avoid confusion and repitition of the link.

X in "Earlier writings" the words 'magic cults' should be been changed to "magic cults" to fall in line with the use of quotation marks in the rest of the text.

X In "Earlier writings" there are instances of duplicate links of Gandalf, Radagast, and Saruman, Valar, and Middle-earth; all under the same sub-heading.

X In "Later writings" there should be a comma after "end of his life"

X In "Later writings" there are instances of duplicate links of Third Age, Second Age, and Free peoples under the same sub-heading.

X In "Later writings" Sauron is not linked in the first instance the word occurs in the sub-heading, but the fifth.

X In "Earlier writings" the third occurrence of "Oromë" has a link to his page when the first occurrence of his name is already linked.

X In "Later writings" there should be a comma after "Therefore" in the paragraph after the quote.

X In "Later writings" there should be quotation marks around "Darkness-slayer" and "East-helper" as they are translations of Morinehtar and Rómestámo.

X In "Later writings" section there are two spaces after "at roughly the same time as Glorfindel in" between "in" and "c. S.A. 1600" in the paragraph after the quote.

X In the intro text to the "Portrayal in adaptations" section "Middle earth" is not hyphenated and should read "Middle-earth".

X In the "Portrayal in adaptations section" under the "Shadow of Mordor" sub-heading there is an instance of the word "artifact" which should be changed to "artefact" in accordance with the British English style rule.

x In the "Portrayal in adaptations section" under the "Shadow of Mordor" sub-heading "wizards" is not capitalized in the first sentence.

x In the same paragraph as the "artifact" error there is no space following "In the game,"

xThe single instance of "Cuiviénen" is not linked to its corresponding page. [[User:MOONBOLT|MOONBOLT]] ([[User talk:MOONBOLT|talk]]) 22:01, 25 October 2024 (UTC)

== Status as a "claimed" article ==
This article was "claimed" over a year ago, by [[User:Akhorahil]], [https://tolkiengateway.net/w/index.php?title=Blue_Wizards&diff=prev&oldid=380593|on 20 September 2023]. Since then, Akhorahil has not made any substantive edits to the article; he has only reverted several other editors' attempted contributions to the article. I am sure the article was claimed with good intentions, but respectfully, the "Claimed" template is not meant to indefinitely reserve an article for edits by the claiming editor. Its status as "claimed" for over a year violates the rules on [[Template:Claimed]], which say "Please do not claim articles for more than several months at a time." With respect to Akhorahil, I am removing the "claimed" template in accordance with this rule because it has been far more than "several months" since the article was claimed, and other users should be free to edit it. [[User:Protospace|Protospace]] ([[User talk:Protospace|talk]]) 02:10, 31 October 2024 (UTC)

Blue Wizards

2024-10-31T01:56:26Z

Protospace: /* Later writings */ missed this

{{claimed|[[User:Akhorahil|Akhorahil]]}}
{{Expansion}}

{{infobox character
| people-duplicated=[[Maiar|Maia]]
| name=Blue Wizards
| people=[[Maiar]] ([[Wizards]])
| image=Daniel Pilla - The Blue Wizards.jpg
| caption="The Blue Wizards" by [[:Category:Images by Daniel Pilla|Daniel Pilla]]
| pronun=
| othernames=Earlier writings: ''Alatar'' and ''Pallando'' Later writings: ''Morinehtar'' and ''Rómestámo''; ''Palacendo'' and ''Haimenar''
| titles=
| position=
| location=[[Rhûn]] and [[Harad]]<ref name="UTIstari"/>
| affiliation=[[Order of Wizards]]
| language=[[Valarin]]
| birth=
| birthlocation=
| rule=
| death=
| deathlocation=
| age=
| notablefor=
| house=
| parentage=
| siblings=
| spouse=
| children=
| gender=Male
| height=
| hair=
| eyes=
| clothing=Sea-blue
| weapons=
| steed=
| gallery=the Blue Wizards
}}

The '''Blue Wizards''' ([[Sindarin|S.]] '''''Ithryn Luin''''')<ref group="note">The term "Blue Wizards" is mentioned only in an "essay" and is the only source where they are assigned a colour; although Tolkien revisited the concept of the remaining two Wizards, giving them different names and backgrounds, their assigned colour (whether blue or other) or title, is never specified again. However the term "Blue Wizards" is used by the fans to refer to all concepts of these two Wizards.</ref> were the two [[Wizards]] (''Istari)'' who were sent into the far [[Rhun|East]] and [[Harad|South]] of [[Middle-earth]] to contest the will of [[Sauron]], but never returned.

==Other versions of the legendarium==
[[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien's]] conception of the two Blue Wizards changed dramatically between his earlier and later writings.
===Earlier writings===
The idea that there were two other [[Wizards]] in addition to [[Gandalf]], [[Saruman]], and [[Radagast]] was first conceived when Saruman, in his wrath, revealed that there were five members of the Order of Wizards:
{{Blockquote|Later! Yes, when you [Gandalf] also have the Keys of Barad-dûr itself, I suppose; and the crowns of seven kings, and the rods of the Five Wizards...|[[Saruman]] in ''[[The Two Towers]]'', "[[The Voice of Saruman]]"}}

Nothing more was said of these two Wizards in ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' as it was published. However, whilst preparing (in [[1954]]) an index for ''[[The Return of the King]]'', Tolkien wrote what his [[Christopher Tolkien|son]] later referred to as the 'essay on the Istari'. There it is said that of the chief Wizards who went to the North of [[Middle-earth]] there were five, and two of these were clad in sea-blue. Little was known about these two in the West of Middle-earth; even their individual names were unknown, but they were known collectively as ''Ithryn Luin'', or "Blue Wizards". It is said they travelled into the East with Curunír (Saruman), but they did not return into the West. Their fate was unknown, but some held that they fell into evil and became servants of [[Sauron]].<ref name="UTIstari">{{UT|Istari}}</ref>

Tolkien expanded upon this last point in a letter written in [[1958]]:
{{Blockquote|I really do not know anything clearly about the other two [wizards] – since they do not concern the history of the N[orth].W[est]. I think they went as emissaries to distant regions, East and South, far out of Númenórean range: missionaries to 'enemy-occupied' lands, as it were. What success they had I do not know; but I fear that they failed, as Saruman did, though doubtless in different ways; and I suspect they were founders or beginners of secret cults and 'magic' traditions that outlasted the fall of Sauron.|[[Letter 211]]<ref name="Letter211">{{L|211}}</ref>}}

[[File:Tom Cross - Alatar - Darkness-slayer.jpg|thumb|''Alatar: Darkness-slayer'' by Tom Cross<ref group="note">Tolkien did not associate Alatar with Morinehtar (which means "Darkness-slayer") and they should not be considered synonymous.</ref>]]

Tolkien also suggests that only Gandalf returned to [[Valinor]]:

{{Blockquote|Wilt thou learn the lore <nowiki>||</nowiki> that was long secret of the Five that came <nowiki>||</nowiki> from a far country? One only returned. <nowiki>||</nowiki> Others never again|''[[Unfinished Tales]]'', "[[The Istari]]"<ref name="UTIstari"/>}}

In a brief narrative about a council of the [[Valar]], the origins of the other two Wizards are placed alongside those of the known three, Curumo (Saruman), [[Radagast|Aiwendil]] (Radagast), and Olórin (Gandalf). Whilst in the essay on the Istari the Blue Wizards were given no names, here these two are called Alatar and Pallando. [[Oromë]] chose Alatar to send to Middle-earth (to contest the will of Sauron), and Alatar decided to bring along Pallando as his friend. Christopher Tolkien has speculated that their association with Oromë could be because he was the Vala who had the greatest knowledge of the furthest regions of Middle-earth, and hence that is where the two Wizards journeyed.<ref name="UTIstari" />

[[File:Angus McBride - Pallando.jpg|''Pallando'' by [[Angus McBride]]|thumb]]

Based on the above material, the history of the two "Blue Wizards" can be determined as the following:

*[[Manwë]] summons a council of the Valar. They decide to send emissaries to Middle-earth. Oromë chooses to send Alatar, and Alatar brings along his friend Pallando.<ref name="UTIstari" />
*The two Wizards arrive in Middle-earth at roughly the same time as the other wizards, c. {{TA|1000}}<ref name="AppB2">{{App|B2}}</ref>
*The two, known as the "Blue Wizards", travel into the East of Middle-earth with Saruman. Saruman returns to the North-West, but the two do not.<ref name="UTIstari" />
*Together or independent of each other, the two fall from their appointed task. They may have founded "magic" cults amongst the peoples of the East and South, which existed beyond the downfall of Sauron.<ref name="Letter211" />

===Later writings===
[[File:Jef Murray - Slayer of Darkness.jpg|''Slayer of Darkness'' by [[Jef Murray]]|thumb]]

Towards the end of his life, Tolkien returned to the issue of the other two Wizards. In a brief outline he noted that the two Wizards were sent to [[Middle-earth]] in the [[Second Age]] and were destined to disrupt the work of [[Sauron]] in the East:

{{Blockquote|Their task was to circumvent Sauron: to bring help to the few tribes of [[Men]] that had rebelled from [[Melkor]]-worship, to stir up rebellion ... and after his first fall to search out his hiding (in which they failed) and to cause [?dissension and disarray] among the dark East ... They must have had very great influence on the history of the [[Second Age]] and [[Third Age]] in weakening and disarraying the forces of East ... who would both in the Second Age and Third Age otherwise have ... outnumbered the West.|"[[Last Writings]]", ''[[The Peoples of Middle-earth]]''<ref name="PMLast">{{PM|Last}}, pp. 384-85</ref>}}

Therefore, Tolkien dramatically altered his conception of the two [[Wizards]]. They no longer arrived in Middle-earth along with [[Saruman]], [[Gandalf]], and [[Radagast]] in c. {{TA|1000}}. Instead they arrived much earlier, at roughly the same time as [[Glorfindel]] in c. {{SA|1600}}. Whilst Glorfindel was tasked with aiding [[Gil-galad]] and [[Elrond]] with the war in [[Eriador]], the Wizards were destined to journey to the East. Instead of mentioning that they drifted from their mission, Tolkien points out that they played a decisive role in the downfall of Sauron at the end of both the [[Second Age]] and the [[Third Age]]. They were known as Morinehtar and Rómestámo, "Darkness-slayer" and "East-helper", and were successful in preventing the forces of the East from outnumbering those of the [[Free peoples]] in the West.<ref name="PMLast" />

Based on these later writings, a history of the two Wizards can be summarised as the following:<ref name="PMLast" />

*The two Wizards were known as Morinehtar and Rómestámo, "Darkness-slayer" and "East-helper".
*The two Wizards were sent to Middle-earth at roughly the same time as Glorfindel in c. {{SA|1600}} (and similarly at the behest of the Valar), the Year of Dread, when Sauron forged [[The One Ring]] and completed the building of [[Barad-dûr]].
*The two Wizards journeyed into the East of Middle-earth, where they remained.
*They were tasked with finding Sauron's hiding place in the East. They failed.
*They brought "help to the few tribes of Men [in the East] that had rebelled from Melkor-worship," and they encouraged rebellion against Sauron.<ref name="PMLast" /> They were able to hinder Sauron's gathering and training of armies in the East in the Second Age, aiding the defeat of Sauron in the [[War of the Elves and Sauron]] and beyond.<ref>{{NM|P3xviii}}</ref>
*They ensured that Sauron's forces in the East did not outnumber the West, thus ultimately helping secure victory for the Free peoples against Sauron in the [[War of the Ring]].

==Etymology==
The [[Sindarin]] name ''Ithryn Luin'' consists of ''[[ithron|ithryn]]'' ("wizards"; plural of ''ithron'') and ''[[luin]]'' ("blue").<ref name="UTIndex">{{UT|Index}}</ref>

==Νames and etymologies==
''Alatar'' and ''Pallando'' are [[Quenya]] names. The first is not clear, and possibly contains the Quenya elements for "radiance" (cf. [[Alatariel]]) and/or the ending ''-[[tar]]'' "lord" (cf. [[Annatar]]).<ref name="alatar-haimenar">{{webcite|author=Paul Strack|articleurl=https://eldamo.org/content/words/word-163516871.html|website=[[Eldamo]]|accessed=20 September 2023}}</ref>
''Pallando'', according to [[Christopher Tolkien]], possibly contains the element ''[[palan]]-'' "far"<ref name="UTIstari" />{{rp|401}}

''Morinehtar'' is described as meaning "Darkness-slayer",<ref name="pome" /> likely based on the Quenya words ''[[mori-]]'' ("darkness") and ''nehtar'' ("slayer").<ref>{{webcite|author=[[Helge Fauskanger]]|articleurl=http://www.uib.no/people/hnohf/quen-eng.rtf|articlename=Quenya-English Wordlist|website=[http://www.uib.no/people/hnohf Ardalambion]|accessed=12-September-2012}}</ref>

''Rómestámo'' or ''Róme(n)star'' is a Quenya name meaning "East-helper".<ref name="pome">{{PM|Last}}, pp. 384-5, 391, note 28</ref>

If they were among the Maiar sent to [[Cuiviénen]] with the other [[Five Guardians|Guardians]] to protect the first Elves, they would have been called '''''Palacendo''''' ("*Far sighted one") and '''''Haimenar''''' ("*Far-farer") at the time.<ref name="alatar-haimenar" /><ref>{{NM|P1xiii}}, "Notes", p. 102, note 7</ref>

==Portrayal in adaptations==
The Blue Wizards have not appeared physically in any adaptation of [[Middle-earth]] works so far, and they are mentioned and implied only in the following adaptations:

'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''
:The Khundolar tribe of the [[Easterlings]] had among them the "Blue Caste" of sorcerers. Their Master, "Yirokhsar the Blue", forbade his followers to march with the Dark Lord's forces, but many still joined their kings who had fallen under the sway of [[Sauron]]. Also, the Jangovar Easterlings viewed Sauron as a god, but were confused why their master, "Yetkeyin the Violet", refused to obey Sauron.

'''2012: ''[[The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey]]'':'''
:[[Gandalf]] mentions the Blue Wizards when he explains the number of Wizards, and says that he has forgotten their names.
:
:
:Since the film production team did not have the rights to include material from sources other than ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', the decision to include the line "Blue Wizards" (only appearing in ''[[Unfinished Tales]]''<ref>{{HM|RC}}, p. 244</ref>) has been regarded as legally controversial.<ref>{{webcite|author=[[Janet Brennan Croft]]|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130731034017/http://groups.yahoo.com/group/mythsoc/message/23828|articlename=Source Material (message #23828)|dated=17 December 2012|website=[http://groups.yahoo.com/group/mythsoc/ MythSoc mailing list]|accessed=27 February 2023}}</ref>

'''2014: ''[[Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor]]'':'''
:[[File:Middle-earth- Shadow of War .png|thumb|312x312px|An azurite figurine of the Blue Wizards in ''Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor'']]In the game, three artefacts describe the encounter of two Wizards whose names could not be remembered travelling side by side into [[Mordor]]. It is implied to be the Blue Wizards from the description of the artefact. Furthermore, a figurine depicting them has been carved out of azurite, a blue stone. More lore tells the player that the [[Black Hand]] could have been a king that brought Sauron the heads of two Istari. Whether or not this is true is unknown.

{{References|Notes}}
{{Ainur}}
[[Category:Maiar]]
[[Category:Second Age characters]]
[[Category:Third Age characters]]
[[Category:Wizards]]

[[de:Ithryn Luin]]
[[fi:Siniset velhot]]
[[fr:encyclo/personnages/ainur/maiar/istari/ithryn luin]]

Straits of the World

2024-10-30T02:09:45Z

Protospace:

{{stub}}
The '''Straits of the World''' was a strait of mountainous land south-east of [[Beleriand]] that narrowly separated the [[Great Gulf]] of [[Belegaer]] from the [[Sea of Helcar|Inland Sea of Helcar]] in the [[First Age]].<ref name="Ambar">{{SM|Ambar}} p. 259</ref> The Straits of the World appear only in early writings<ref name="Ambar">{{SM|Ambar}} p. 259</ref> before Tolkien envisioned the wide lands of [[Eriador]], [[Gondor]], and [[Mordor]] that lay east and south of Beleriand.

==Portrayal in adaptations==
[[Karen Wynn Fonstad]] speculated her work ''[[The Atlas of Middle-earth]]'' that the Sea of Helcar drained into the Great Gulf at the end of the First Age and that the Straits of the World became the river [[Poros]]. Fonstand's interpretation was predicated on the idea that [[Mordor]] was created in the Second Age where the Sea of Helcar once lay.<ref>{{HM|AME}}</ref> However, in ''[[The Peoples of Middle-earth]]'' (which was published after Fontstad's ''Atlas''), [[Melkor]] was said to have created [[Mount Doom]] in Mordor during the "long [[First Age]]".<ref>{{PM|Last}} p. 390 (note 14)</ref> Additionally, it is told in ''[[Unfinished Tales]]'' that the migration of the [[Drúedain]] from [[Hildórien]] brought them westward through lands south of Mordor before they turned northward, entering [[Ithilien]] and becoming the first Men to cross the [[Anduin]].<ref>{{UT|Druedain}}, pp. 339-340</ref>

{{references}}
[[Category:Bodies of water]]
[[Category:Middle-earth]]
[[Category:Coasts]]

Straits of the World

2024-10-30T01:40:14Z

Protospace: Tweaks for accuracy

{{stub}}
The '''Straits of the World''' was a strait of mountainous land southeast of [[Beleriand]] that narrowly separated the [[Great Gulf]] of [[Belegaer]] from the [[Sea of Helcar|Inland Sea of Helcar]] in the [[First Age]].<ref name="Ambar">{{SM|Ambar}} p. 259</ref> The Straits of the World appear only in early writings<ref name="Ambar">{{SM|Ambar}} p. 259</ref> before Tolkien envisioned the wide lands of [[Eriador]], [[Gondor]], and [[Mordor]] that lay east and south of Beleriand.

==Portrayal in adaptations==
[[Karen Wynn Fonstad]] speculated her work ''[[The Atlas of Middle-earth]]'' that the Sea of Helcar drained into the Great Gulf at the end of the First Age and that the Straits of the World became the river [[Poros]]. Fonstand's interpretation was predicated on the idea that [[Mordor]] was created in the Second Age where the Sea of Helcar once lay.<ref>{{HM|AME}}</ref> However, in ''[[The Peoples of Middle-earth]]'' (which was published after Fontstad's ''Atlas''), [[Melkor]] was said to have created [[Mount Doom]] in Mordor during the "long [[First Age]]".<ref>{{PM|Last}} p. 390 (note 14)</ref> Additionally, it is told in ''[[Unfinished Tales]]'' that the migration of the [[Drúedain]] from [[Hildórien]] brought them westward through lands south of Mordor before they turned northward, entering [[Ithilien]] and becoming the first Men to cross the [[Anduin]].<ref>{{UT|Druedain}}, pp. 339-340</ref>

{{references}}
[[Category:Bodies of water]]
[[Category:Middle-earth]]
[[Category:Coasts]]

Blue Wizards

2024-10-29T22:36:49Z

Protospace: /* Portrayal in adaptations */

{{claimed|[[User:Akhorahil|Akhorahil]]}}
{{Expansion}}

{{infobox character
| people-duplicated=[[Maiar|Maia]]
| name=Blue Wizards
| people=[[Maiar]] ([[Wizards]])
| image=Daniel Pilla - The Blue Wizards.jpg
| caption="The Blue Wizards" by [[:Category:Images by Daniel Pilla|Daniel Pilla]]
| pronun=
| othernames=Earlier writings: ''Alatar'' and ''Pallando'' Later writings: ''Morinehtar'' and ''Rómestámo''; ''Palacendo'' and ''Haimenar''
| titles=
| position=
| location=[[Rhûn]] and [[Harad]]<ref name="UTIstari"/>
| affiliation=[[Order of Wizards]]
| language=[[Valarin]]
| birth=
| birthlocation=
| rule=
| death=
| deathlocation=
| age=
| notablefor=
| house=
| parentage=
| siblings=
| spouse=
| children=
| gender=Male
| height=
| hair=
| eyes=
| clothing=Sea-blue
| weapons=
| steed=
| gallery=the Blue Wizards
}}

The '''Blue Wizards''' ([[Sindarin|S.]] '''''Ithryn Luin''''')<ref group="note">The term "Blue Wizards" is mentioned only in an "essay" and is the only source where they are assigned a colour; although Tolkien revisited the concept of the remaining two Wizards, giving them different names and backgrounds, their assigned colour (whether blue or other) or title, is never specified again. However the term "Blue Wizards" is used by the fans to refer to all concepts of these two Wizards.</ref> were the two [[Wizards]] (''Istari)'' who were sent into the far [[Rhun|East]] and [[Harad|South]] of [[Middle-earth]] to contest the will of [[Sauron]], but never returned.

==Other versions of the legendarium==
[[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien's]] conception of the two Blue Wizards changed dramatically between his earlier and later writings.
===Earlier writings===
The idea that there were two other [[wizards]] in addition to [[Gandalf]], [[Saruman]], and [[Radagast]] was first conceived when Saruman, in his wrath, revealed that there were five members of the Order of Wizards:
{{Blockquote|Later! Yes, when you [Gandalf] also have the Keys of Barad-dûr itself, I suppose; and the crowns of seven kings, and the rods of the Five Wizards...|[[Saruman]] in ''[[The Two Towers]]'', "[[The Voice of Saruman]]"}}

Nothing more was said of these two wizards in ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' as it was published. However, whilst preparing (in [[1954]]) an Index for ''[[The Return of the King]]'', Tolkien wrote what his [[Christopher Tolkien|son]] later referred to as the 'essay on the Istari'. There it is said that of the chief wizards who went to the North of [[Middle-earth]] there were five, and two of these were clad in sea-blue. Little was known about these two in the West of Middle-earth; even their individual names were unknown, but they were known collectively as ''Ithryn Luin'', or "Blue Wizards". It is said they travelled into the East with Curunír (Saruman) but they did not return into the West. Their fate was unknown, but some held that they fell into evil and became servants of [[Sauron]].<ref name="UTIstari">{{UT|Istari}}</ref>

Tolkien expanded upon this last point in a letter written in [[1958]]:
{{Blockquote|I really do not know anything clearly about the other two [wizards] – since they do not concern the history of the N[orth].W[est]. I think they went as emissaries to distant regions, East and South, far out of Númenórean range: missionaries to 'enemy-occupied' lands, as it were. What success they had I do not know; but I fear that they failed, as Saruman did, though doubtless in different ways; and I suspect they were founders or beginners of secret cults and 'magic' traditions that outlasted the fall of Sauron.|[[Letter 211]]<ref name="Letter211">{{L|211}}</ref>}}

[[File:Tom Cross - Alatar - Darkness-slayer.jpg|thumb|''Alatar: Darkness-slayer'' by Tom Cross<ref group="note">Tolkien did not associate Alatar with Morinehtar (which means "Darkness-slayer") and they should not be considered synonymous.</ref>]]

Tolkien also suggests that only Gandalf returned to [[Valinor]]:

{{Blockquote|Wilt thou learn the lore <nowiki>||</nowiki> that was long secret of the Five that came <nowiki>||</nowiki> from a far country? One only returned. <nowiki>||</nowiki> Others never again|''[[Unfinished Tales]]'', "[[The Istari]]"<ref name="UTIstari"/>}}

In a brief narrative about a council of the [[Valar]], the origins of the other two Wizards are placed alongside those of the known three, Curumo (Saruman), [[Radagast|Aiwendil]] (Radagast), and Olórin (Gandalf). Whilst in the essay on the Istari the Blue Wizards were given no names, here these two are called Alatar and Pallando. [[Oromë]] chose Alatar to send to Middle-earth (to contest the will of Sauron), and Alatar decided to bring along Pallando as his friend. Christopher Tolkien has speculated that their association with Oromë could be because he was the Vala who had the greatest knowledge of the furthest regions of Middle-earth and hence that is where the two Wizards journeyed.<ref name="UTIstari" />

[[File:Angus McBride - Pallando.jpg|''Pallando'' by [[Angus McBride]]|thumb]]

Based on the above material, the history of the two "Blue Wizards" can be determined as the following:

*[[Manwë]] summons a council of the Valar. They decide to send emissaries to Middle-earth. Oromë chooses to send Alatar, and Alatar brings along his friend Pallando.<ref name="UTIstari" />
*The two Wizards arrive in Middle-earth at roughly the same time as the other wizards, c. {{TA|1000}}<ref name="AppB2">{{App|B2}}</ref>
*The two, known as the "Blue Wizards", travel into the East of Middle-earth with Saruman. Saruman returns to the North-West, but the two do not.<ref name="UTIstari" />
*Together or independent of each other, the two fall from their appointed task. They may have founded "magic" cults amongst the peoples of the East and South, which existed beyond the downfall of the Sauron.<ref name="Letter211" />

===Later writings===
[[File:Jef Murray - Slayer of Darkness.jpg|''Slayer of Darkness'' by [[Jef Murray]]|thumb]]

Towards the end of his life, Tolkien returned to the issue of the other two Wizards. In a brief outline he noted that the two Wizards were sent to [[Middle-earth]] in the [[Second Age]] and were destined to disrupt the work of [[Sauron]] in the East:

{{Blockquote|Their task was to circumvent Sauron: to bring help to the few tribes of [[Men]] that had rebelled from [[Melkor]]-worship, to stir up rebellion ... and after his first fall to search out his hiding (in which they failed) and to cause [?dissension and disarray] among the dark East ... They must have had very great influence on the history of the [[Second Age]] and [[Third Age]] in weakening and disarraying the forces of East ... who would both in the Second Age and Third Age otherwise have ... outnumbered the West.|"[[Last Writings]]", ''[[The Peoples of Middle-earth]]''<ref name="PMLast">{{PM|Last}}, pp. 384-85</ref>}}

Therefore, Tolkien dramatically altered his conception of the two [[Wizards]]. They no longer arrived in Middle-earth along with [[Saruman]], [[Gandalf]], and [[Radagast]] in c. {{TA|1000}}. Instead they arrived much earlier, at roughly the same time as [[Glorfindel]] in c. {{SA|1600}}. Whilst Glorfindel was tasked with aiding [[Gil-galad]] and [[Elrond]] with the war in [[Eriador]], the Wizards were destined to journey to the East. Instead of mentioning that they drifted from their mission, Tolkien points out that they played a decisive role in the downfall of Sauron at the end of both the [[Second Age]] and the [[Third Age]]. They were known as Morinehtar and Rómestámo, "Darkness-slayer" and "East-helper", and were successful in preventing the forces of the East and South from outnumbering those of the [[Free peoples]] in the West.<ref name="PMLast" />

Based on these later writings, a history of the two Wizards can be summarised as the following:<ref name="PMLast" />

*The two Wizards were known as Morinehtar and Rómestámo, "Darkness-slayer" and "East-helper".
*The two Wizards were sent to Middle-earth at roughly the same time as Glorfindel in c. {{SA|1600}} (and similarly at the behest of the Valar), the Year of Dread, when Sauron forged [[The One Ring]] and completed the building of [[Barad-dûr]].
*The two Wizards journeyed into the East of Middle-earth, where they remained.
*They were tasked with finding Sauron's hiding place in the East. They failed.
*They brought "help to the few tribes of Men [in the East] that had rebelled from Melkor-worship," and they encouraged rebellion against Sauron.<ref name="PMLast" /> They were able to hinder Sauron's gathering and training of armies in the East in the Second Age, aiding the defeat of Sauron in the [[War of the Elves and Sauron]] and beyond.<ref>{{NM|P3xviii}}</ref>
*They ensured that Sauron's forces in the East did not outnumber the West, thus ultimately helping secure victory for the Free peoples against Sauron in the [[War of the Ring]].

==Etymology==
The [[Sindarin]] name ''Ithryn Luin'' consists of ''[[ithron|ithryn]]'' ("wizards"; plural of ''ithron'') and ''[[luin]]'' ("blue").<ref name="UTIndex">{{UT|Index}}</ref>

==Νames and etymologies==
''Alatar'' and ''Pallando'' are [[Quenya]] names. The first is not clear, and possibly contains the Quenya elements for "radiance" (cf. [[Alatariel]]) and/or the ending ''-[[tar]]'' "lord" (cf. [[Annatar]]).<ref name="alatar-haimenar">{{webcite|author=Paul Strack|articleurl=https://eldamo.org/content/words/word-163516871.html|website=[[Eldamo]]|accessed=20 September 2023}}</ref>
''Pallando'', according to [[Christopher Tolkien]], possibly contains the element ''[[palan]]-'' "far"<ref name="UTIstari" />{{rp|401}}

''Morinehtar'' is described as meaning "Darkness-slayer",<ref name="pome" /> likely based on the Quenya words ''[[mori-]]'' ("darkness") and ''nehtar'' ("slayer").<ref>{{webcite|author=[[Helge Fauskanger]]|articleurl=http://www.uib.no/people/hnohf/quen-eng.rtf|articlename=Quenya-English Wordlist|website=[http://www.uib.no/people/hnohf Ardalambion]|accessed=12-September-2012}}</ref>

''Rómestámo'' or ''Róme(n)star'' is a Quenya name meaning "East-helper".<ref name="pome">{{PM|Last}}, pp. 384-5, 391, note 28</ref>

If they were among the Maiar sent to [[Cuiviénen]] with the other [[Five Guardians|Guardians]] to protect the first Elves, they would have been called '''''Palacendo''''' ("*Far sighted one") and '''''Haimenar''''' ("*Far-farer") at the time.<ref name="alatar-haimenar" /><ref>{{NM|P1xiii}}, "Notes", p. 102, note 7</ref>

==Portrayal in adaptations==
The Blue Wizards have not appeared physically in any adaptation of [[Middle-earth]] works so far, and they are mentioned and implied only in the following adaptations:

'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''
:The Khundolar tribe of the [[Easterlings]] had among them the "Blue Caste" of sorcerers. Their Master, "Yirokhsar the Blue", forbade his followers to march with the Dark Lord's forces, but many still joined their kings who had fallen under the sway of [[Sauron]]. Also, the Jangovar Easterlings viewed Sauron as a god, but were confused why their master, "Yetkeyin the Violet", refused to obey Sauron.

'''2012: ''[[The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey]]'':'''
:[[Gandalf]] mentions the Blue Wizards when he explains the number of Wizards, and says that he has forgotten their names.
:
:
:Since the film production team did not have the rights to include material from sources other than ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', the decision to include the line "Blue Wizards" (only appearing in ''[[Unfinished Tales]]''<ref>{{HM|RC}}, p. 244</ref>) has been regarded as legally controversial.<ref>{{webcite|author=[[Janet Brennan Croft]]|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130731034017/http://groups.yahoo.com/group/mythsoc/message/23828|articlename=Source Material (message #23828)|dated=17 December 2012|website=[http://groups.yahoo.com/group/mythsoc/ MythSoc mailing list]|accessed=27 February 2023}}</ref>

'''2014: ''[[Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor]]'':'''
:[[File:Middle-earth- Shadow of War .png|thumb|312x312px|An azurite figurine of the Blue Wizards in ''Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor'']]In the game, three artefacts describe the encounter of two Wizards whose names could not be remembered travelling side by side into [[Mordor]]. It is implied to be the Blue Wizards from the description of the artefact. Furthermore, a figurine depicting them has been carved out of azurite, a blue stone. More lore tells the player that the [[Black Hand]] could have been a king that brought Sauron the heads of two Istari. Whether or not this is true is unknown.

{{References|Notes}}
{{Ainur}}
[[Category:Maiar]]
[[Category:Second Age characters]]
[[Category:Third Age characters]]
[[Category:Wizards]]

[[de:Ithryn Luin]]
[[fi:Siniset velhot]]
[[fr:encyclo/personnages/ainur/maiar/istari/ithryn luin]]

Blue Wizards

2024-10-29T22:36:03Z

Protospace: Removing some over-interpretation. E.g., the later writings never mention the "south"--only the "east." Also, softening some language because they were not definitively confirmed to be among the Maiar who visited the first Elves

{{claimed|[[User:Akhorahil|Akhorahil]]}}
{{Expansion}}

{{infobox character
| people-duplicated=[[Maiar|Maia]]
| name=Blue Wizards
| people=[[Maiar]] ([[Wizards]])
| image=Daniel Pilla - The Blue Wizards.jpg
| caption="The Blue Wizards" by [[:Category:Images by Daniel Pilla|Daniel Pilla]]
| pronun=
| othernames=Earlier writings: ''Alatar'' and ''Pallando'' Later writings: ''Morinehtar'' and ''Rómestámo''; ''Palacendo'' and ''Haimenar''
| titles=
| position=
| location=[[Rhûn]] and [[Harad]]<ref name="UTIstari"/>
| affiliation=[[Order of Wizards]]
| language=[[Valarin]]
| birth=
| birthlocation=
| rule=
| death=
| deathlocation=
| age=
| notablefor=
| house=
| parentage=
| siblings=
| spouse=
| children=
| gender=Male
| height=
| hair=
| eyes=
| clothing=Sea-blue
| weapons=
| steed=
| gallery=the Blue Wizards
}}

The '''Blue Wizards''' ([[Sindarin|S.]] '''''Ithryn Luin''''')<ref group="note">The term "Blue Wizards" is mentioned only in an "essay" and is the only source where they are assigned a colour; although Tolkien revisited the concept of the remaining two Wizards, giving them different names and backgrounds, their assigned colour (whether blue or other) or title, is never specified again. However the term "Blue Wizards" is used by the fans to refer to all concepts of these two Wizards.</ref> were the two [[Wizards]] (''Istari)'' who were sent into the far [[Rhun|East]] and [[Harad|South]] of [[Middle-earth]] to contest the will of [[Sauron]], but never returned.

==Other versions of the legendarium==
[[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien's]] conception of the two Blue Wizards changed dramatically between his earlier and later writings.
===Earlier writings===
The idea that there were two other [[wizards]] in addition to [[Gandalf]], [[Saruman]], and [[Radagast]] was first conceived when Saruman, in his wrath, revealed that there were five members of the Order of Wizards:
{{Blockquote|Later! Yes, when you [Gandalf] also have the Keys of Barad-dûr itself, I suppose; and the crowns of seven kings, and the rods of the Five Wizards...|[[Saruman]] in ''[[The Two Towers]]'', "[[The Voice of Saruman]]"}}

Nothing more was said of these two wizards in ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' as it was published. However, whilst preparing (in [[1954]]) an Index for ''[[The Return of the King]]'', Tolkien wrote what his [[Christopher Tolkien|son]] later referred to as the 'essay on the Istari'. There it is said that of the chief wizards who went to the North of [[Middle-earth]] there were five, and two of these were clad in sea-blue. Little was known about these two in the West of Middle-earth; even their individual names were unknown, but they were known collectively as ''Ithryn Luin'', or "Blue Wizards". It is said they travelled into the East with Curunír (Saruman) but they did not return into the West. Their fate was unknown, but some held that they fell into evil and became servants of [[Sauron]].<ref name="UTIstari">{{UT|Istari}}</ref>

Tolkien expanded upon this last point in a letter written in [[1958]]:
{{Blockquote|I really do not know anything clearly about the other two [wizards] – since they do not concern the history of the N[orth].W[est]. I think they went as emissaries to distant regions, East and South, far out of Númenórean range: missionaries to 'enemy-occupied' lands, as it were. What success they had I do not know; but I fear that they failed, as Saruman did, though doubtless in different ways; and I suspect they were founders or beginners of secret cults and 'magic' traditions that outlasted the fall of Sauron.|[[Letter 211]]<ref name="Letter211">{{L|211}}</ref>}}

[[File:Tom Cross - Alatar - Darkness-slayer.jpg|thumb|''Alatar: Darkness-slayer'' by Tom Cross<ref group="note">Tolkien did not associate Alatar with Morinehtar (which means "Darkness-slayer") and they should not be considered synonymous.</ref>]]

Tolkien also suggests that only Gandalf returned to [[Valinor]]:

{{Blockquote|Wilt thou learn the lore <nowiki>||</nowiki> that was long secret of the Five that came <nowiki>||</nowiki> from a far country? One only returned. <nowiki>||</nowiki> Others never again|''[[Unfinished Tales]]'', "[[The Istari]]"<ref name="UTIstari"/>}}

In a brief narrative about a council of the [[Valar]], the origins of the other two Wizards are placed alongside those of the known three, Curumo (Saruman), [[Radagast|Aiwendil]] (Radagast), and Olórin (Gandalf). Whilst in the essay on the Istari the Blue Wizards were given no names, here these two are called Alatar and Pallando. [[Oromë]] chose Alatar to send to Middle-earth (to contest the will of Sauron), and Alatar decided to bring along Pallando as his friend. Christopher Tolkien has speculated that their association with Oromë could be because he was the Vala who had the greatest knowledge of the furthest regions of Middle-earth and hence that is where the two Wizards journeyed.<ref name="UTIstari" />

[[File:Angus McBride - Pallando.jpg|''Pallando'' by [[Angus McBride]]|thumb]]

Based on the above material, the history of the two "Blue Wizards" can be determined as the following:

*[[Manwë]] summons a council of the Valar. They decide to send emissaries to Middle-earth. Oromë chooses to send Alatar, and Alatar brings along his friend Pallando.<ref name="UTIstari" />
*The two Wizards arrive in Middle-earth at roughly the same time as the other wizards, c. {{TA|1000}}<ref name="AppB2">{{App|B2}}</ref>
*The two, known as the "Blue Wizards", travel into the East of Middle-earth with Saruman. Saruman returns to the North-West, but the two do not.<ref name="UTIstari" />
*Together or independent of each other, the two fall from their appointed task. They may have founded "magic" cults amongst the peoples of the East and South, which existed beyond the downfall of the Sauron.<ref name="Letter211" />

===Later writings===
[[File:Jef Murray - Slayer of Darkness.jpg|''Slayer of Darkness'' by [[Jef Murray]]|thumb]]

Towards the end of his life, Tolkien returned to the issue of the other two Wizards. In a brief outline he noted that the two Wizards were sent to [[Middle-earth]] in the [[Second Age]] and were destined to disrupt the work of [[Sauron]] in the East:

{{Blockquote|Their task was to circumvent Sauron: to bring help to the few tribes of [[Men]] that had rebelled from [[Melkor]]-worship, to stir up rebellion ... and after his first fall to search out his hiding (in which they failed) and to cause [?dissension and disarray] among the dark East ... They must have had very great influence on the history of the [[Second Age]] and [[Third Age]] in weakening and disarraying the forces of East ... who would both in the Second Age and Third Age otherwise have ... outnumbered the West.|"[[Last Writings]]", ''[[The Peoples of Middle-earth]]''<ref name="PMLast">{{PM|Last}}, pp. 384-85</ref>}}

Therefore, Tolkien dramatically altered his conception of the two [[Wizards]]. They no longer arrived in Middle-earth along with [[Saruman]], [[Gandalf]], and [[Radagast]] in c. {{TA|1000}}. Instead they arrived much earlier, at roughly the same time as [[Glorfindel]] in c. {{SA|1600}}. Whilst Glorfindel was tasked with aiding [[Gil-galad]] and [[Elrond]] with the war in [[Eriador]], the Wizards were destined to journey to the East. Instead of mentioning that they drifted from their mission, Tolkien points out that they played a decisive role in the downfall of Sauron at the end of both the [[Second Age]] and the [[Third Age]]. They were known as Morinehtar and Rómestámo, "Darkness-slayer" and "East-helper", and were successful in preventing the forces of the East and South from outnumbering those of the [[Free peoples]] in the West.<ref name="PMLast" />

Based on these later writings, a history of the two Wizards can be summarised as the following:<ref name="PMLast" />

*The two Wizards were known as Morinehtar and Rómestámo, "Darkness-slayer" and "East-helper".
*The two Wizards were sent to Middle-earth at roughly the same time as Glorfindel in c. {{SA|1600}} (and similarly at the behest of the Valar), the Year of Dread, when Sauron forged [[The One Ring]] and completed the building of [[Barad-dûr]].
*The two Wizards journeyed into the East of Middle-earth, where they remained.
*They were tasked with finding Sauron's hiding place in the East. They failed.
*They brought "help to the few tribes of Men [in the East] that had rebelled from Melkor-worship," and they encouraged rebellion against Sauron.<ref name="PMLast" /> They were able to hinder Sauron's gathering and training of armies in the East in the Second Age, aiding the defeat of Sauron in the [[War of the Elves and Sauron]] and beyond.<ref>{{NM|P3xviii}}</ref>
*They ensured that Sauron's forces in the East did not outnumber the West, thus ultimately helping secure victory for the Free peoples against Sauron in the [[War of the Ring]].

==Etymology==
The [[Sindarin]] name ''Ithryn Luin'' consists of ''[[ithron|ithryn]]'' ("wizards"; plural of ''ithron'') and ''[[luin]]'' ("blue").<ref name="UTIndex">{{UT|Index}}</ref>

==Νames and etymologies==
''Alatar'' and ''Pallando'' are [[Quenya]] names. The first is not clear, and possibly contains the Quenya elements for "radiance" (cf. [[Alatariel]]) and/or the ending ''-[[tar]]'' "lord" (cf. [[Annatar]]).<ref name="alatar-haimenar">{{webcite|author=Paul Strack|articleurl=https://eldamo.org/content/words/word-163516871.html|website=[[Eldamo]]|accessed=20 September 2023}}</ref>
''Pallando'', according to [[Christopher Tolkien]], possibly contains the element ''[[palan]]-'' "far"<ref name="UTIstari" />{{rp|401}}

''Morinehtar'' is described as meaning "Darkness-slayer",<ref name="pome" /> likely based on the Quenya words ''[[mori-]]'' ("darkness") and ''nehtar'' ("slayer").<ref>{{webcite|author=[[Helge Fauskanger]]|articleurl=http://www.uib.no/people/hnohf/quen-eng.rtf|articlename=Quenya-English Wordlist|website=[http://www.uib.no/people/hnohf Ardalambion]|accessed=12-September-2012}}</ref>

''Rómestámo'' or ''Róme(n)star'' is a Quenya name meaning "East-helper".<ref name="pome">{{PM|Last}}, pp. 384-5, 391, note 28</ref>

If they were among the Maiar sent to [[Cuiviénen]] with the other [[Five Guardians|Guardians]] to protect the first Elves, they would have been called '''''Palacendo''''' ("*Far sighted one") and '''''Haimenar''''' ("*Far-farer") at the time.<ref name="alatar-haimenar" /><ref>{{NM|P1xiii}}, "Notes", p. 102, note 7</ref>

==Portrayal in adaptations==
The Blue Wizards have not appeared physically in any adaptation of [[Middle-earth]] works so far, and they are mentioned and implied only in the following adaptations:

'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''
:The Khundolar tribe of the [[Easterlings]] had among them the "Blue Caste" of sorcerers. Their Master, "Yirokhsar the Blue", forbade his followers to march with the Dark Lord's forces, but many still joined their kings who had fallen under the sway of [[Sauron]]. Also, the Jangovar Easterlings viewed Sauron as a god, but were confused why their master, "Yetkeyin the Violet", refused to obey Sauron.

'''2012: ''[[The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey]]'':'''
:[[Gandalf]] mentions the Blue Wizards when he explains the number of Wizards, and says that he has forgotten their names.
:
:Since the film production team did not have the rights to include material from sources other than ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', the decision to include the line "Blue Wizards" (only appearing in ''[[Unfinished Tales]]''<ref>{{HM|RC}}, p. 244</ref>) has been regarded as legally controversial.<ref>{{webcite|author=[[Janet Brennan Croft]]|articleurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130731034017/http://groups.yahoo.com/group/mythsoc/message/23828|articlename=Source Material (message #23828)|dated=17 December 2012|website=[http://groups.yahoo.com/group/mythsoc/ MythSoc mailing list]|accessed=27 February 2023}}</ref>

'''2014: ''[[Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor]]'':'''
:[[File:Middle-earth- Shadow of War .png|thumb|312x312px|An azurite figurine of the Blue Wizards in ''Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor'']]In the game, three artefacts describe the encounter of two Wizards whose names could not be remembered travelling side by side into [[Mordor]]. It is implied to be the Blue Wizards from the description of the artefact. Furthermore, a figurine depicting them has been carved out of azurite, a blue stone. More lore tells the player that the [[Black Hand]] could have been a king that brought Sauron the heads of two Istari. Whether or not this is true is unknown.

{{References|Notes}}
{{Ainur}}
[[Category:Maiar]]
[[Category:Second Age characters]]
[[Category:Third Age characters]]
[[Category:Wizards]]

[[de:Ithryn Luin]]
[[fi:Siniset velhot]]
[[fr:encyclo/personnages/ainur/maiar/istari/ithryn luin]]

Beleriand

2024-10-27T17:18:14Z

Protospace: /* Geography */ Updating southern bound with Tolkien's final word on the matter; rewriting sentence to have in-universe style per TG:MOS

{{location infobox
| name=Beleriand
| image=Christopher Tolkien - Map of Beleriand (colored by H.E. Riddett).jpg
| caption="[[Map of Beleriand and the Lands to the North]]" drawn by [[Christopher Tolkien]] and coloured by [[H.E. Riddett]]
| pronun=[[Sindarin|S]], {{IPA|[beˈlerjand]}}
| othernames=''Valariandë'' ([[Quenya|Q]]) ''Hekelmar'', ''Hekeldamar'' ([[Quenya|Q]]) ''Heculbar'', ''Hecellubar'' ([[Telerin|T]])
| location=[[Arda]], east of [[Belegaer]]
| type=Continent
| description=
| regions=[[West Beleriand]], [[East Beleriand]]
| settlements=
| inhabitants=[[Men]], [[Elves]], [[Dwarves]], [[Orcs]], others
| created=
| destroyed={{FA|587}}
| events=[[Wars of Beleriand]]
}}
{{quote|Beleriand, Beleriand / borders of the faëry land.|''[[Lay of Leithian]]'', [[Lay of Leithian Canto II|Canto II]], vv. 399-400}}
'''Beleriand''' was the region of north-western [[Middle-earth]] during the [[First Age]]. Originally, the name belonged only to the area around the [[Bay of Balar]], but in time the name was applied to the entire land.

==Geography==
[[File:Hope Maps - Beleriand Map.jpg|thumb|right|250px|''Beleriand Map'' by [[:Category:Images by Hope Maps|Hope Maps]]]]
In the First Age, Beleriand was among the westernmost lands of Middle-earth.<ref name="western">{{S|3}}, p. 44</ref> Beleriand had a long western shoreline with the Great Sea [[Belegaer]], including the [[Bay of Balar]] in its south-west. The Ered Luin ([[Blue Mountains]]) formed the eastern border of Beleriand, separating it from [[Eriador]].<ref name="western" /> To the south, Beleriand "had no sure boundaries; for there were pathless forests in those days between the unpeopled shores and the lower waters of [the river] [[Gelion]]."<ref>[[Template:WR|<nowiki>{{WR}}</nowiki>]] p. 5</ref><ref>In the earliest conceptions of Beleriand, Tolkien shown it was bound to the south by a [[Great Gulf]] of Belegaer.{{SM|5}}, p. 306</ref> North of Beleriand were the highland regions of [[Hithlum]],<ref name="hithlum">{{S|14}}, p. 112</ref> [[Dorthonion]], and [[Lothlann]].<ref>{{S|18}}, p. 147</ref> Some people considered the land of [[Nevrast]] to be part of Beleriand, while others considered it part of Hithlum.<ref name="hithlum" /> Beleriand stretched about 550 miles broad from [[Eglarest]] on its western shore to the Blue Mountains in the east.<ref name=":0">[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Carl F. Hostetter]] (ed.). ''[[The Nature of Middle-earth]]'' (Parte One: Time and Ageing; VII. The March of the Quendi).</ref>

The River [[Sirion]], the chief river of Beleriand, running north to south, divided it into [[West Beleriand]] and [[East Beleriand]]. Crossing it east to west was a series of hills and a sudden drop in elevation known as [[Andram]], the Long Wall. (The river sank into the ground at the ''Fens of Sirion'', and re-emerged below the Andram at the ''Gates of Sirion''.) To the east of the Long Wall, was the River [[Gelion]] and its six tributaries draining the Ered Luin, in [[Ossiriand]] or the Land of Seven Rivers. The River [[Brithon]] and the River [[Nenning]] were the two lesser rivers of the western land of [[Falas]].

By {{FA|587}}, Beleriand was mostly destroyed and submerged under the sea from the [[War of Wrath]] of the [[Valar]] against [[Morgoth]]. Only a small section of East Beleriand remained, and was known as [[Lindon]].

In addition, fulfilling a prophecy, the graves of [[Túrin|Túrin Turambar]] and [[Morwen]] survived as the island [[Tol Morwen]]. Likewise part of [[Dorthonion]] became [[Tol Fuin]], and the [[Hill of Himring]] became the island of Himling. All of these together were also mentioned as the Western Isles.<ref name="Quenta">{{LR|P2VI}}</ref>{{rp|332}}

Regions and kingdoms of Beleriand:
*[[Arvernien]]
*[[Forest of Brethil]]
*[[Dimbar]]
*[[Doriath]]
*[[Estolad]]
*[[Falas]]
*[[Himlad]]
*[[Nan-tathren]] (Land of Willows)
*[[Talath Dirnen]] (Guarded Plain)
*[[Taur-en-Faroth]] (Forest of the Hunters)
*[[Taur-im-Duinath]]
*[[Thargelion]]
*[[Ossiriand]] or [[Lindon]]

Cities of Beleriand:
*[[Belegost]]<ref name=":0" group="note">Both Belegost and Nogrod were located in the eastern side of the Blue Mountains. It is not clear if they were part of Beleriand, of Eriador, of both, or of neither, though many consider them to be part of Beleriand because of their relationship with the Sindar (and later Noldor) in the First Age.</ref>
*[[Brithombar]]
*[[Eglarest]]
*[[Gondolin]]
*[[Himring]]
*[[Menegroth]]
*[[Nargothrond]]
*[[Nogrod]]<ref name=":0" group="note" />
*[[Vinyamar]]

==Etymology==
{{Pronounce|Beleriand.mp3|Ardamir}}
''Beleriand'' translates to "The Country of [[Ossë|Balar]]" with the ending ''[[-ian|-ian(d)]]'' for places and countries. The [[OS]] form could have been *''Balariandë'' (''a'' [[i-affection|slid]] to ''e'' because of the following ''i'').

The element ''Balar'' refers to [[Ossë]], who often dwelt at the shores (although this refers to the earlier [[legendarium]] when Ossë and [[Uinen]] were [[Valar]] of the sea, not [[Maiar]] of Ulmo).<ref name="ety">{{LR|Etymologies}}, entry BAL</ref><ref>{{GA|2}}</ref> It was from Balar that the Teleri expanded and "colonised" the region of Beleriand, hence the name.<ref name="ety" />

===Nomenclature===
The name ''Beleriand'' originally applied only to the region around the [[Bay of Balar]] whence the name, before expanded to refer to the wider region. Properly ''Beleriand'' does not refer to the [[Northlands]] such as [[Anfauglith]], or the eastern lands of [[Thargelion]]; [[Nevrast]] and [[Dorthonion]] are "grey areas".<ref>{{HM|Guide}}, p. 41</ref> However the term ''Beleriand'' is sometimes used collectivelly in [[fandom]] to include all those submerged lands.

==Other names==
*Middle [[Quenya]] name '''''Valariandë'''''.<ref name="Quenta" />{{rp|202}}
*Archaic Quenya names '''''Hekelmar''''' and '''''Hekeldamar''''' or, in the [[Telerin|speech of the Teleri]], '''''Heculbar''''' and '''''Hecellubar''''',<ref name="WJ">{{WJ|B}}</ref>{{rp|365}} which meant the 'Land of the Hekeldi', deriving from the name ''[[Sindar|Hekeldi]]'' ('forsaken ones') for [[Úmanyar|those Elves who remained behind]] during the Great Journey<ref name="WJ" />{{rp|374}}.
*'''''Eldavehtë''''' ([[Quenya|Q]].), understood and defined as "a habitation, haunt or place occupied by Eldar".<ref>{{PE|Eldarin}}, p. 189</ref>

==Location==
[[File:Map of Beleriand and Eriador.png|thumb|Map of Beleriand and Eriador by [[Christopher Gilson]], published in {{PE|6}} ([[1983]]).]]

The [[Map of Beleriand and the Lands to the North|map of Beleriand as published in ''The Silmarillion'']] (1977) shows only a portion of the region, with few common points to the better-known [[Third Age]] [[Westlands]] maps of ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]''; the only explicit common references are the [[Blue Mountains]], which formed the boundary between Beleriand and [[Eriador]], and the information that in the Third Age, [[Lindon]] was part of Ossiriand that survived Beleriand's destruction at the end of the First Age.

In [[1979]], [[Charles Noad]]<ref>[[Charles Noad]], "A Note on the Geography of the First Age" in ''[[Amon Hen (journal)|Amon Hen]]'' no. [[Amon Hen 38|38]], April 1979, reprinted in ''[[Mallorn (journal)|Mallorn]]'' no. [[Mallorn 27|27]], September 1990, p. 40.</ref> made an attempt to reconstruct a general map of Beleriand and Eriador. Using only the few distance indications from the text of ''The Silmarillion'', Noad's very early attempt is remarkable as it proves very accurate despite being published before ''[[Unfinished Tales]]'' (where the island of Himling was first depicted, with Tol Fuin mentioned westwards) and ''[[The History of Middle-earth]]''.

In [[1989]], [[Ronald Kyrmse|Ronald E. Kyrmse]]<ref>[[Ronald Kyrmse]], "The Geographical Relation between Beleriand and Eriador" in ''[[Mallorn (journal)|Mallorn]]'' no. [[Mallorn 26|26]], September 1989, pp. 25–27.</ref> independently proposed his own map reconstruction, aligning the isle of [[Himling]] with the hill of [[Himring]]. Kyrmse also identified [[Dolmed]] on the early map of Beleriand as being the same as a mountain on the ''[[Unfinished Tales]]'' map (depicted slightly apart of the mountain range and north of the wooden area in [[Forlindon]]), proving that Dolmed still existed in the Third Age (being too far north from the Gulf of Lune to have been destroyed). He might therefore have been the first to discover that Dolmed survived the destruction of Beleriand at the end of the First Age.

[[File:Sage - Beleriand and Eriador collage.png|thumb|How [[Karen Wynn Fonstad]] envisioned Beleriand relative to Eriador. The rectangle marks the region shown in the ''The Silmarillion'' map (canon); the rest, including the [[Thangorodrim]], are Fonstad's extrapolations.]]
In [[1991]], [[Karen Wynn Fonstad]] faced the same problems when she attempted to make a world-map of [[Arda]]. She found a solution by combining an early map for ''The Lord of the Rings'' (published in ''[[The Treason of Isengard]]'')<ref>{{TI|MI}}, p. 302</ref> and an early map for the Silmarillion (published in ''[[The Lost Road and Other Writings]]''),<ref>{{LR|A3}}, pp. 408-411</ref> both being prototypes for the published maps by [[Christopher Tolkien]]. She aligned [[Tol Fuin]] with [[Taur-nu-Fuin]] and [[Himling]] with [[Himring]] and filled the rest of the outline with some inspiration from the [[:File:J.R.R. Tolkien - Ambarkanta Map V.png|only world-map]] by Tolkien.<ref>{{SM|Ambar}}</ref> She brought the coast near that of [[Belfalas]], continued the course of [[Gelion]] to the south-west, extended the south-western tip to emphasize the Bay of Balar, and assumed that area as forested, a continuation of [[Taur-im-Duinath]].<ref name="Atlas">[[Karen Wynn Fonstad]], ''[[The Atlas of Middle-earth]]''</ref>{{rp|3}} While the [[Iron Mountains]] do not appear in the canonical map, Fonstad drew them as a continuation to her imagined range of [[Iron Hills]]—[[Grey Mountains]]—[[Mountains of Angmar]].
[[File:Didier Willis - Beleriand and Eriador.png|thumb|left|Reconstructed location of Beleriand at the appropriate scale and position relative to [[Eriador]], as drawn by [[Didier Willis]]]]
In the early 1990s, [[Didier Willis]] independently made the same attempt using the map from ''[[Unfinished Tales]]'' that shows Himling; the second map of Beleriand, which was published in ''[[The War of the Jewels]]'' and indicates distances;<ref>{{HM|WJ}}, pp. 182-185</ref> and the draft map of the lands east of the Blue Mountains published in ''The Treason of Isengard'', which also indicates distances. Quite similar to Noad and Kymrse's earlier attempts, Willis' interpretation shows a slightly smaller Beleriand than Fonstad's and places the First Age [[Bay of Balar]] closer to the Third Age [[Gulf of Lune]].<ref>''Hiswelóce'' (fanzine, French), special issue no. 1, La Faculté des Etudes Elfiques, 1994; [http://www.jrrvf.com/hisweloke/site3/articles.php?lng=en&pg=41 Mont Dolmed & cités naines — « Lhúndirien » ou le recollage du Beleriand et de l'Eriador], revised and improved version in Willis, Didier (editor), ''[[Tolkien, le façonnement d'un monde]]'' (2014), vol. 2, pp. 197-230.</ref> Not knowing Kyrmse's earlier interpretation, Willis also independently recognized [[Dolmed]] on the early map of Beleriand and criticized Fonstad and [[Robert Foster]] who suggested the opposite.<ref name="Atlas" />{{rp|34}}<ref>[[Robert Foster]], ''[[The Complete Guide to Middle-earth]]'', entry "Dolmed"</ref>
[[File:Middle-earth and Beleriand Map (2).png|alt=Beleriand with the appropriate scale and at the correct position (considering both the late maps of Beleriand and Middle-earth and The Nature of Middle-earth distance scale), as edited by Projeto Tolkien.|thumb|Beleriand with the appropriate scale and at the correct position (considering both the late maps of Beleriand and Middle-earth and The Nature of Middle-earth distance scale), as edited by [[User:ProjetoTolkien|Projeto Tolkien]].]]
In 2021, a manuscript from c. 1959 was published posthumously in ''[[The Nature of Middle-earth]]'', in which Tolkien considers Beleriand to be about 550 miles broad from Eglarest to the Blue Mountains.<ref name=":0" /> When we equate this new found distance scale for Beleriand with the already known distance scale for the late Third Age Middle-earth (which appears in the map itself), both the Blue Mountains and Tol Himling and Himring are perfectly aligned, which means this is most likely the aproximate size and location of Beleriand when compared to the late Third Age Middle-earth (which is also a bit smaller than Fonstad's recreation).

==Other versions of the legendarium==
The earliest name in the [[legendarium]] was '''''Broseliand''''' (emmended from ''Broceliand'').<ref name="Broseliand">{{LB|C1}}, p. 160</ref> The name is not glossed, but in the [[The First 'Silmarillion' Map|First 'Silmarillion' Map]] it is said that it is the English name for "all the lands watered by Sirion south of [[Gondolin]]".<ref>{{SM|4c}}, p. 226</ref> While writing [[The Lay of Leithian]], Tolkien considered several names to replace ''Broseliand'', which also remain unglossed but [[Christopher Tolkien]] tried to explain:<ref name="Broseliand" />

*''Golodhinand'' and ''Noldórinan'', both related to the [[Gnomes]] in the stems ''[[Golodh]]'' and ''[[Noldo]]''.
*''Bladorinand'', related to ''Bladorwen'', the name for [[Palúrien]] as "the wide earth, Mother Earth".
*''Belaurien'', related to ''Belaurin'', the [[Gnomish]] form of ''Palúrien''.
*''Geleriand'', ''Arsiriand'', ''Lassiriand'' and ''[[Ossiriand]]'', Christopher is not able to explain.

==Inspiration==
The early names ''Broceliand''/''Broseliand'' affirms that Tolkien was inspired by the legendary forest of ''[[Wikipedia:Brocéliande|Brocéliande]]''.<ref name="Broseliand">{{LB|C1}}, p. 160</ref>

==See also==
*[[Mountains#Beleriand|Mountains of Beleriand]]
*[[:Category:Rivers of Beleriand|Rivers of Beleriand]]

==External links==
*[http://www.glyphweb.com/arda/faq/comparison.html Where in Middle-earth was Beleriand?] by Mark Fisher
*[http://lotrproject.com/map/beleriand/ Interactive Map of Beleriand] by Emil Johansson

==Notes==
{{references}}
[[Category:Beleriand| ]]
[[Category:Middle-earth]]
[[Category:Noldorin locations]]
[[Category:Pronounced articles]]
[[Category:Regions]]
[[Category:Sindarin locations]]

[[de:Beleriand]]
[[fi:Beleriand]]
[[fr:encyclo:geographie:regions:beleriand]]

Downfall of Númenor

2022-09-26T23:06:02Z

Protospace: /* Aftermath */

{{sources}}{{disambig-more|Fall of Númenor|[[Fall of Númenor]]}}
{{events
| image=[[File:John Howe - The Drowning of Numenor.jpg|250px]]
| event=Downfall of Númenor
| othernames=Fall of [[Númenor]] Drowning of Númenor
| location=Primarily [[Elenna]], but affected the shores of [[Middle-earth]]
| date= {{SA|3319}}
| result=Destruction of Númenor, exile of the [[Faithful]]
| partof=The [[Changing of the World]]
| participants=[[Númenóreans]], [[Valar]], [[Ilúvatar|Eru]]
| description=Catastrophe that caused Númenor to sink into the [[Belegaer|Sea]]
| references=
| gallery=the Downfall of Númenor
}}
The '''Downfall of Númenor''', also called the '''Fall''' or '''Drowning of Númenor''', was the utter destruction of the island of [[Númenor]], a divine punishment by [[Eru Ilúvatar]] to the [[Númenóreans]] for breaking the [[Ban of the Valar]]. [[Ar-Pharazôn]], the [[king of Númenor]], was coerced by [[Sauron]] to assault the [[Undying Lands]] which ultimately led to the island's destruction and death of most of its people in {{SA|3319}}.

==History==
===Prelude===
During the early years of the [[Second Age]], [[Morgoth|Morgoth's]] greatest servant [[Sauron]], had grown mighty in [[Middle-earth]], ruling through terror, force, and persuasion, Sauron dominated the peoples of Middle-earth in the south and east. After the forging of the [[One Ring]] Sauron launched an invasion of [[Eriador]] and [[Sack of Eregion|destroyed Eregion]]. [[Númenor]] dispatched an immense military force to Middle-earth to aid the [[Elves of Lindon]] and after a period of heavy fighting, [[Battle of the Gwathló|defeated]] Sauron and his hosts.<ref name=akallabeth>{{S|Akallabeth}}</ref>

Sauron returned to Mordor to rebuild his strength and having tasted the power of conquest and victory in arms, the [[Númenóreans]] began establishing settlements along the coasts and oppressed the Men of Middle-earth. Many began to speak openly of their envy of the Eldar's immortality and in defiance of the [[Ban of the Valar|Ban]]. It appeared to the [[Valar]] that the shadow of Morgoth had returned to plague their hearts. Emissaries of the Valar came to Númenor, seeking to remind them that death was not given as a punishment but the people of Númenor did not heed their words and later became split into two factions; the [[King's Men]], those loyal to the King and prone to oppose the restraints upon Númenor, and the [[Faithful]], those who remained true to their friendship with the Eldar and loyalty to the Valar. As time went on, Númenor continued to grow in wealth and might, yet somehow its people's bliss was diminished.<ref name=akallabeth/>

===Adviser to the King===
[[File:Turner Mohan - The King's Councelor.jpg|thumb|right|''The King's Councillor'' by [[Turner Mohan]]]]
After returning to the height of his power, Sauron began attacking Númenórean cities by the coasts and took on the titles ''''Lord of the Earth'''' and ''''King of Men''''. [[Ar-Pharazôn]] the King, received word of his rise in power angered by Sauron's pride the Númenóreans swiftly came once more to Middle-earth with a great military force to confront Sauron a final time. So mighty were they that Sauron's forces fled from them with barely a fight. Sauron realising he could not defeat the Númenóreans militarily allowed himself to be captured, and begged falsely for mercy. The Númenóreans brought him back as a prisoner.<ref name=akallabeth/>

Through Sauron's cunning and persuasion he rose from prisoner to adviser for the King, convincing many officials to worship Morgoth, they quickly became corrupted to his side. Under Sauron's influence the Númenóreans prospered but became more nefarious, the Men of Middle-earth were hunted and enslaved and brought back to their temples to be slain cruelly. The White tree [[Nimloth (tree)|Nimloth]] was cut down and its wood was used to light the first fire on the altar of a mighty temple built in [[Armenelos]]. Recognising the corruption of the council [[Amandil]], the [[Lords of Andúnië|lord of Andúnië]], withdrew to [[Rómenna]] summoning more of the [[Faithful]] to follow him.<ref name=akallabeth/>

The shadow of death soon loomed over Ar-Pharazôn and fearing death and old age the king was prompted by Sauron to make war upon the Valar, seize the Undying Lands and take immortality by force and so preparations began in {{SA|3310}} of a great armada for the invasion.<ref name=APSA>{{App|SA}}</ref> Amandil was aware of the king's machinations and called his son [[Elendil]] revealing his plan to sail west in secret, imitating their forefather [[Eärendil]], and seek mercy from the Valar for what is to come, as Amandil perceived there is no turning back from the Númenórean's course of war and the ruin of them will be devastating. Amandil then departed along with three servants he held close, sailing east then going about towards the west and was never seen or heard of again. Following the advice of his father Elendil prepared for the ruin of Númenor, gathering more of the Faithful and prepared their ships that were anchored in the east coast, storing their heirlooms and goods.<ref name=akallabeth/>

===Drowning of Númenor===
[[Image:Darrell Sweet - The Fall of Numenor.jpg|thumb|left|''The Fall of Númenor'' by [[Darrell Sweet]]]]
{{seealso|Changing of the World}}
During these days the weather in Númenor grew restless, the skies darkened, and the storms wrecked the ships of the Númenóreans. Then a great cloud shaped as an eagle loomed over the island and beneath its wings lightning struck the land. Few of the Númenóreans repented but many defied the warning and Sauron stood in the Temple and was unscathed from the lightning. In {{SA|3319|n}}, Ar-Pharazôn's armada was complete,<ref name=APSA/> known as the [[Great Armament]], Ar-Pharazôn boarded his flagship [[Alcarondas]] ahead of his fleet and departed for [[Aman]]. Sauron remained behind. The fleet finally arrived on the shores of Aman and Ar-Pharazôn's host made their camp about [[Túna]].<ref name=akallabeth/>

The Valar feared that the Númenorean army could wreak havoc in [[Valinor]],<ref>{{L|131}}</ref> but they were forbidden from killing or otherwise using force against Men.<ref>{{L|156}}</ref><ref>{{MR|P4k}}, p. 350</ref> [[Manwë]], chief of the Valar, thus called upon [[Ilúvatar]], who opened a massive chasm in the sea between Númenor and Aman which swallowed the ships in the Great Armament of Ar-Pharazôn. Ar-Pharazon himself, along with his host that had landed on Aman, was 'buried under falling hills' and would remain in the [[Caves of the Forgotten]] until the [[Last Battle]]. Númenor was covered by great waves and sank into the abyss, killing its inhabitants, including the body of Sauron, which robbed him his ability to assume fair and charming forms. Ilúvatar broke and [[Changing of the World|changed the world]], changing [[Arda]]'s shape from flat to round and taking [[Aman]] and [[Tol Eressëa]] from the [[Circles of the World]] forever, so that mortal sailors would not reach the Undying Lands again.<ref name=akallabeth/>

===Aftermath===
The Faithful managed to escape the catastrophe, led by Elendil and his two sons [[Isildur]] and [[Anárion]] they fled Númenor on nine ships. Among their possessions were the [[Palantíri]], the [[Ring of Barahir]], a [[Sceptre of Annúminas|silver rod]], [[Narsil]] and a scion of Nimloth which grew from a fruit Isildur saved before the tree was cut down. They landed in [[Middle-earth]], but due to the upheaval caused by the destruction of Númenor their ships were separated, Elendil landed in Lindon while Isildur and Anárion were borne to the south. The followers of Elendil united the colonists who were in the settlements of those lands among the [[Middle Men]] and established two kingdoms which came to be known as the [[Realms in Exile]]: [[Gondor]] in the south, and [[Arnor]] in the north.<ref name=rings>{{S|Rings}}</ref> The few Númenóreans endeavoured to preserve the culture of Númenor in their new kingdoms, [[Adûnaic]] the language of Númenor, was used in the realms (even before the Downfall) and later it evolved into [[Westron]] or the Common Speech, burrowing some words from [[Elvish]].<ref>{{App|F1ii}}</ref> The sadness and the shock from the loss of their island home always remained in the hearts of the Númenóreans and their descendants.<ref name=akallabeth/>

Other Númenóreans survived that were of the [[King's Men]], they were already in Middle-earth before the Downfall and established other realms in exile to the south; of these the [[Umbar|Haven of Umbar]] was the chief and continued to reign the lands there. They later became known as the [[Black Númenóreans]]<ref>{{App|A1iv}}</ref> and continued to serve Sauron, whom had also survived the Downfall, although greatly diminished and bereft of shape returned to Middle-earth with [[the One Ring]] to continue troubling its inhabitants.<ref name=akallabeth/>

[[New lands]] formed in the West to replace the absence of Aman; islands rose and hills were formed. The coastline of Middle-earth also felt the effects of the cataclysm. In some places the coasts retreated, and in others they had advanced. [[Lindon]] in particular suffered great loss from the advance of the coasts, whereas the coasts had retreated to the east and south of the [[Bay of Belfalas]], putting [[Pelargir]] much further inland than it had been and nearly destroying [[Tolfalas]]. As the [[Anduin]] found new courses along the new coasts, the [[Ethir Anduin]] formed.<ref>{{PM|Second}}</ref>

==Legacy==
After its fall Númenor was called ''[[Akallabêth]]'' or ''[[Atalantë]]'' in [[Quenya]], meaning "the Downfallen", ''[[Mar-nu-Falmar]]'' ("Land under the Waves").

Sauron's plan to destroy Númenor had been overwhelmingly successful, and though he too was caught by the flooding, he escaped, and at some point, returned to Middle-earth, believing himself to now be fully unopposed.

==Other versions of the legendarium==
The manner of Sauron's arrival to Númenor took different forms in earlier versions of the story. In ''The Fall of Númenor'', Sȗr (an earlier name for Sauron) came to Númenor in the 'likeness of a great bird' and preached the return of Morgoth.<ref>{{LR|P1II2}}, §5</ref> In a later version, the King of Númenor sends ships to Middle-earth after hearing the rise of Sauron and summons him to do homage.<ref>{{LR|P1II3}}, §5</ref> The element of the king sending an armed host appears later in ''The Drowning of Anadûnê'' where he smithies weapons of war.<ref>{{SD|3ii}}, §28</ref> This would later be expanded to what closely resembles what is in the ''Akallabêth''.<ref>{{SD|3iv}}, §28</ref>

In earlier versions of the story Ar-Pharazôn did not set foot on Aman with his army, instead he remained aboard his ship along with his queen [[Tar-Míriel#Other versions of the legendarium|Istar]] (an earlier name of Tar-Míriel) and both perished when the sea swallowed the fleet.<ref>{{LR|P1II2}}, §7</ref><ref>{{SD|3i}}, §7</ref> This was also the only instance in the texts that mentions Tar-Míriel accompanying Ar-Pharazôn to Aman, whereas in later writings she remained on the island.

{{references}}
[[Category:Events]]
[[Category:Númenor]]
[[de:Númenor#Der_Niedergang]]
[[fi:Númenor#Númenorin_häviö]]

Downfall of Númenor

2022-09-26T23:02:40Z

Protospace: /* Drowning of Númenor */

{{sources}}{{disambig-more|Fall of Númenor|[[Fall of Númenor]]}}
{{events
| image=[[File:John Howe - The Drowning of Numenor.jpg|250px]]
| event=Downfall of Númenor
| othernames=Fall of [[Númenor]] Drowning of Númenor
| location=Primarily [[Elenna]], but affected the shores of [[Middle-earth]]
| date= {{SA|3319}}
| result=Destruction of Númenor, exile of the [[Faithful]]
| partof=The [[Changing of the World]]
| participants=[[Númenóreans]], [[Valar]], [[Ilúvatar|Eru]]
| description=Catastrophe that caused Númenor to sink into the [[Belegaer|Sea]]
| references=
| gallery=the Downfall of Númenor
}}
The '''Downfall of Númenor''', also called the '''Fall''' or '''Drowning of Númenor''', was the utter destruction of the island of [[Númenor]], a divine punishment by [[Eru Ilúvatar]] to the [[Númenóreans]] for breaking the [[Ban of the Valar]]. [[Ar-Pharazôn]], the [[king of Númenor]], was coerced by [[Sauron]] to assault the [[Undying Lands]] which ultimately led to the island's destruction and death of most of its people in {{SA|3319}}.

==History==
===Prelude===
During the early years of the [[Second Age]], [[Morgoth|Morgoth's]] greatest servant [[Sauron]], had grown mighty in [[Middle-earth]], ruling through terror, force, and persuasion, Sauron dominated the peoples of Middle-earth in the south and east. After the forging of the [[One Ring]] Sauron launched an invasion of [[Eriador]] and [[Sack of Eregion|destroyed Eregion]]. [[Númenor]] dispatched an immense military force to Middle-earth to aid the [[Elves of Lindon]] and after a period of heavy fighting, [[Battle of the Gwathló|defeated]] Sauron and his hosts.<ref name=akallabeth>{{S|Akallabeth}}</ref>

Sauron returned to Mordor to rebuild his strength and having tasted the power of conquest and victory in arms, the [[Númenóreans]] began establishing settlements along the coasts and oppressed the Men of Middle-earth. Many began to speak openly of their envy of the Eldar's immortality and in defiance of the [[Ban of the Valar|Ban]]. It appeared to the [[Valar]] that the shadow of Morgoth had returned to plague their hearts. Emissaries of the Valar came to Númenor, seeking to remind them that death was not given as a punishment but the people of Númenor did not heed their words and later became split into two factions; the [[King's Men]], those loyal to the King and prone to oppose the restraints upon Númenor, and the [[Faithful]], those who remained true to their friendship with the Eldar and loyalty to the Valar. As time went on, Númenor continued to grow in wealth and might, yet somehow its people's bliss was diminished.<ref name=akallabeth/>

===Adviser to the King===
[[File:Turner Mohan - The King's Councelor.jpg|thumb|right|''The King's Councillor'' by [[Turner Mohan]]]]
After returning to the height of his power, Sauron began attacking Númenórean cities by the coasts and took on the titles ''''Lord of the Earth'''' and ''''King of Men''''. [[Ar-Pharazôn]] the King, received word of his rise in power angered by Sauron's pride the Númenóreans swiftly came once more to Middle-earth with a great military force to confront Sauron a final time. So mighty were they that Sauron's forces fled from them with barely a fight. Sauron realising he could not defeat the Númenóreans militarily allowed himself to be captured, and begged falsely for mercy. The Númenóreans brought him back as a prisoner.<ref name=akallabeth/>

Through Sauron's cunning and persuasion he rose from prisoner to adviser for the King, convincing many officials to worship Morgoth, they quickly became corrupted to his side. Under Sauron's influence the Númenóreans prospered but became more nefarious, the Men of Middle-earth were hunted and enslaved and brought back to their temples to be slain cruelly. The White tree [[Nimloth (tree)|Nimloth]] was cut down and its wood was used to light the first fire on the altar of a mighty temple built in [[Armenelos]]. Recognising the corruption of the council [[Amandil]], the [[Lords of Andúnië|lord of Andúnië]], withdrew to [[Rómenna]] summoning more of the [[Faithful]] to follow him.<ref name=akallabeth/>

The shadow of death soon loomed over Ar-Pharazôn and fearing death and old age the king was prompted by Sauron to make war upon the Valar, seize the Undying Lands and take immortality by force and so preparations began in {{SA|3310}} of a great armada for the invasion.<ref name=APSA>{{App|SA}}</ref> Amandil was aware of the king's machinations and called his son [[Elendil]] revealing his plan to sail west in secret, imitating their forefather [[Eärendil]], and seek mercy from the Valar for what is to come, as Amandil perceived there is no turning back from the Númenórean's course of war and the ruin of them will be devastating. Amandil then departed along with three servants he held close, sailing east then going about towards the west and was never seen or heard of again. Following the advice of his father Elendil prepared for the ruin of Númenor, gathering more of the Faithful and prepared their ships that were anchored in the east coast, storing their heirlooms and goods.<ref name=akallabeth/>

===Drowning of Númenor===
[[Image:Darrell Sweet - The Fall of Numenor.jpg|thumb|left|''The Fall of Númenor'' by [[Darrell Sweet]]]]
{{seealso|Changing of the World}}
During these days the weather in Númenor grew restless, the skies darkened, and the storms wrecked the ships of the Númenóreans. Then a great cloud shaped as an eagle loomed over the island and beneath its wings lightning struck the land. Few of the Númenóreans repented but many defied the warning and Sauron stood in the Temple and was unscathed from the lightning. In {{SA|3319|n}}, Ar-Pharazôn's armada was complete,<ref name=APSA/> known as the [[Great Armament]], Ar-Pharazôn boarded his flagship [[Alcarondas]] ahead of his fleet and departed for [[Aman]]. Sauron remained behind. The fleet finally arrived on the shores of Aman and Ar-Pharazôn's host made their camp about [[Túna]].<ref name=akallabeth/>

The Valar feared that the Númenorean army could wreak havoc in [[Valinor]],<ref>{{L|131}}</ref> but they were forbidden from killing or otherwise using force against Men.<ref>{{L|156}}</ref><ref>{{MR|P4k}}, p. 350</ref> [[Manwë]], chief of the Valar, thus called upon [[Ilúvatar]], who opened a massive chasm in the sea between Númenor and Aman which swallowed the ships in the Great Armament of Ar-Pharazôn. Ar-Pharazon himself, along with his host that had landed on Aman, was 'buried under falling hills' and would remain in the [[Caves of the Forgotten]] until the [[Last Battle]]. Númenor was covered by great waves and sank into the abyss, killing its inhabitants, including the body of Sauron, which robbed him his ability to assume fair and charming forms. Ilúvatar broke and [[Changing of the World|changed the world]], changing [[Arda]]'s shape from flat to round and taking [[Aman]] and [[Tol Eressëa]] from the [[Circles of the World]] forever, so that mortal sailors would not reach the Undying Lands again.<ref name=akallabeth/>

===Aftermath===
The Faithful managed to escape the catastrophe, led by Elendil and his two sons [[Isildur]] and [[Anárion]] they fled Númenor on nine ships. Among their possessions were the [[Palantíri]], the [[Ring of Barahir]], a [[Sceptre of Annúminas|silver rod]], [[Narsil]] and a scion of Nimloth which grew from a fruit Isildur saved before the tree was cut down. They landed in [[Middle-earth]], but due to the upheaval caused by the destruction of Númenor their ships were separated, Elendil landed in Lindon while Isildur and Anárion were borne to the south. The followers of Elendil united the colonists who were in the settlements of those lands among the [[Middle Men]] and established two kingdoms which came to be known as the [[Realms in Exile]]: [[Gondor]] in the south, and [[Arnor]] in the north.<ref name=rings>{{S|Rings}}</ref> The few Númenóreans endeavoured to preserve the culture of Númenor in their new kingdoms, [[Adûnaic]] the language of Númenor, was used in the realms (even before the Downfall) and later it evolved into [[Westron]] or the Common Speech, burrowing some words from [[Elvish]].<ref>{{App|F1ii}}</ref> The sadness and the shock from the loss of their island home always remained in the hearts of the Númenóreans and their descendants.<ref name=akallabeth/>

Other Númenóreans survived that were of the [[King's Men]], they were already in Middle-earth before the Downfall and established other realms in exile to the south; of these the [[Umbar|Haven of Umbar]] was the chief and continued to reign the lands there. They later became known as the [[Black Númenóreans]]<ref>{{App|A1iv}}</ref> and continued to serve Sauron, whom had also survived the Downfall, although greatly diminished and bereft of shape returned to Middle-earth with [[the One Ring]] to continue troubling its inhabitants.<ref name=akallabeth/>

New lands formed in the West to replace the absence of Aman; islands rose and hills were formed. The coastline of Middle-earth also felt the effects of the cataclysm. In some places the coasts retreated, and in others they had advanced. [[Lindon]] in particular suffered great loss from the advance of the coasts, whereas the coasts had retreated to the east and south of the [[Bay of Belfalas]], putting [[Pelargir]] much further inland than it had been and nearly destroying [[Tolfalas]]. As the [[Anduin]] found new courses along the new coasts, the [[Ethir Anduin]] formed.<ref>{{PM|Second}}</ref>

==Legacy==
After its fall Númenor was called ''[[Akallabêth]]'' or ''[[Atalantë]]'' in [[Quenya]], meaning "the Downfallen", ''[[Mar-nu-Falmar]]'' ("Land under the Waves").

Sauron's plan to destroy Númenor had been overwhelmingly successful, and though he too was caught by the flooding, he escaped, and at some point, returned to Middle-earth, believing himself to now be fully unopposed.

==Other versions of the legendarium==
The manner of Sauron's arrival to Númenor took different forms in earlier versions of the story. In ''The Fall of Númenor'', Sȗr (an earlier name for Sauron) came to Númenor in the 'likeness of a great bird' and preached the return of Morgoth.<ref>{{LR|P1II2}}, §5</ref> In a later version, the King of Númenor sends ships to Middle-earth after hearing the rise of Sauron and summons him to do homage.<ref>{{LR|P1II3}}, §5</ref> The element of the king sending an armed host appears later in ''The Drowning of Anadûnê'' where he smithies weapons of war.<ref>{{SD|3ii}}, §28</ref> This would later be expanded to what closely resembles what is in the ''Akallabêth''.<ref>{{SD|3iv}}, §28</ref>

In earlier versions of the story Ar-Pharazôn did not set foot on Aman with his army, instead he remained aboard his ship along with his queen [[Tar-Míriel#Other versions of the legendarium|Istar]] (an earlier name of Tar-Míriel) and both perished when the sea swallowed the fleet.<ref>{{LR|P1II2}}, §7</ref><ref>{{SD|3i}}, §7</ref> This was also the only instance in the texts that mentions Tar-Míriel accompanying Ar-Pharazôn to Aman, whereas in later writings she remained on the island.

{{references}}
[[Category:Events]]
[[Category:Númenor]]
[[de:Númenor#Der_Niedergang]]
[[fi:Númenor#Númenorin_häviö]]

Two Trees of Valinor

2022-09-26T19:44:14Z

Protospace: /* Portrayal in adaptations */ cleaning up; the show didn't say Morgoth acted "exclusively," it simply didn't mention Ungoliant, which may or may not mean Morgoth acted alone in the show's continuity

{{object infobox
| name=Two Trees of Valinor
| image=[[File:Roger Garland - Two Trees of Valinor.jpg|250px]]
| caption="Two Trees of Valinor" by [[Roger Garland]]
| pronun=
| othernames=
| location=Atop [[Ezellohar]] near [[Valmar]] at the heart of [[Valinor]]
| owner=
| type=Trees/source of light
| appearance=Two tall trees, one of gold, the other of silver
| creator=[[Yavanna]]
| created=V.Y. 3450–3500
| createdlocation=[[Ezellohar]]
| destroyer=[[Morgoth|Melkor]] and [[Ungoliant]]
| destroyed={{YT|1495}}
| destroyedlocation=[[Ezellohar]]
| notablefor=
| gallery=the Two Trees
}}

{{Quote|A! the Trees of Light,  tall and shapely, gold and silver,  more glorious than the sun|[[The Flight of the Noldoli from Valinor]], vv.1-2}}

The '''Two Trees of Valinor''' were '''[[Telperion]]''' and '''[[Laurelin]]''', the Silver Tree and the Gold that brought [[Light of Valinor|Light]] to the Land of the [[Valar]] in ancient times. They were destroyed by [[Morgoth|Melkor]] and [[Ungoliant]], but their last flower and fruit were made by the Valar into the [[Moon]] and the [[Sun]].

== History ==
=== Creation and characteristics ===
The first sources of light for all of [[Arda]] were two enormous [[Two Lamps|Lamps]], [[Illuin]], the silver one to the north and [[Ormal]], the golden one to the south. These were cast down and destroyed by [[Morgoth|Melkor]]. Afterward, the Valar went to [[Valinor]] and [[Yavanna]] sang into existence the Two Trees, silver [[Telperion]] and golden [[Laurelin]]. Telperion was considered male and Laurelin female. The Trees sat on the hill [[Ezellohar]] located just outside the western gates of [[Valmar]]. They grew in the presence of all of the [[Valar]], watered by the tears of [[Nienna]].<ref name=Days>{{S|1}}</ref>

Each tree was a source of light: Telperion's silver and Laurelin's gold. Telperion had dark leaves (silver on one side) and his silvery dew was collected as a source of water and of light. Laurelin had gold-trimmed leaves and her dew was likewise collected by [[Varda]].

The Count of [[Time]] and the [[Years of the Trees]] began with the first light of Telperion. One "day" lasted twelve hours. Each Tree, in turn, would give off light for seven hours (waxing to full brightness and then slowly waning again), so that at one hour each of "dawn" and "dusk" soft gold and silver light would be given off together.<ref name=Days></ref>

=== Destruction ===
[[File:Luis F. Bejarano - The Darkening of Valinor.jpg|left|thumb|220px|"The Darkening of Valinor" by [[Luis F. Bejarano]]]]{{main|Darkening of Valinor}}

Jealous [[Morgoth|Melkor]] enlisted the help of the giant spider-creature [[Ungoliant]] (an ancestress of [[Shelob]]) to destroy the Two Trees. Concealed in a cloud of darkness, the two of them struck during a [[High feast|high feast]]. The [[Unlight]] of Ungoliant devoured the roots, while Melkor came onto Ezellohar, striking both Trees with his black spear. The sap of the Two Trees poured like blood upon Ezellohar where insatiable Ungoliant sucked it up, devouring whatever life and light remained before draining the [[Wells of Varda]].<ref>{{S|Darkening}}</ref>

After Melkor and Ungoliant fled, Yavanna came onto Ezellohar, only to find that the Trees were dead, and their light lived on only within [[Fëanor|Fëanor's]] three [[Silmarils]], which he refused to break to restore the Two Trees.<ref>{{S|Flight}}</ref>

[[Yavanna]] sang and [[Nienna]] wept, yet they eventually succeeded only in reviving Telperion's last flower (to become the [[Moon]]) and Laurelin's last fruit (to become the [[Sun]]). These were assigned to [[Maiar|lesser spirits]], [[Tilion]] and [[Arien]], respectively.<ref>{{S|11}}</ref>

However, the true light of the Trees, before their poisoning by Ungoliant, was said to now reside only in the [[Silmarils]].<ref>{{S|9}}</ref><ref>{{S|23}}</ref> It is said that according to the [[Second Prophecy of Mandos]], after the breaking of the Earth, the light of the Silmarils will be used by Yavanna to rekindle the Two Trees, which will light all the world.<ref>{{LR|P2VI}}, p. 333</ref>

== Legacy ==
The imagery of the Two Trees is used by the Eldar in their arts, either in poetry (like [[Elemmírë]]'s ''[[Aldudénië]]'') or crafts. Especially renowned were the images wrought by [[Turgon]], named [[Glingal and Belthil]].<ref>{{S|15}}</ref>

The Two Trees of Valinor existed at a time when the only other sources of light were the stars (which had been created for the Elves' benefit by [[Varda]] from the dews collected from the Two Trees). When three Elven ambassadors were brought to see Valinor for themselves, in order that the Elves might be convinced to come to Valinor, it seems that the Two Trees affected them most significantly.<ref>{{S|3}}</ref>

In particular [[Thingol]] seems to have been motivated in the [[Great Journey]] by his desire to see the [[Light of Valinor]] again (until he found contentment in the light he saw in [[Melian]]'s face). Also in later times, the Elves would be divided between the ''[[Calaquendi]]'' who had seen the light of the Trees, and the ''[[Moriquendi]]'' who had not, with the former group explicitly superior in many ways.

In the [[Second Age|Second]] and [[Third Age|Third]] Ages, the [[White Tree]]s of Númenor and of Gondor, whose likeness descends from that of Telperion, had a mostly symbolic significance. They stood both as symbols of the kingdoms in question, and also as reminders of the ancestral alliance between the [[Dúnedain]] and the Elves.

In the Elvish ''[[enquië]]'' (week), the fourth day was named ''[[Aldúya]]'' in [[Quenya]] and ''[[Orgaladhad]]'' in [[Sindarin]], dedicated to the Two Trees.<ref>{{App|D2}}</ref>

== Etymology ==
''See:''
*''[[Telperion#Etymology|Telperion: Etymology]] and [[Telperion#Other names|Telperion: Other names]]''
*''[[Laurelin#Etymology|Laurelin: Etymology]] and [[Laurelin#Other names|Laurelin: Other names]]''

The pair of the trees was perhaps referred to as '''''Aldu''''' in [[Quenya]], the dual form of ''[[alda]]''. The word as such appears in the names of the weekday name ''[[Aldúya|'''Aldú'''ya]]'' ("Day of the Two Trees") and ''[[Aldudénië|'''Aldu'''dénië]]'' ("Lament for the Trees").<ref>{{webcite|website=Arda|author=[[Helge Fauskanger]]|articleurl=http://folk.uib.no/hnohf/quen-eng.htm|articlename=Quettaparma Quenyallo}}</ref>

== Other versions of the legendarium ==
The concept of the Two Trees is present since the earliest writings of the legendarium, as in ''[[The Book of Lost Tales]]''. In that continuity, the Elves maintained a prophecy concerning their rekindling and return to [[Luthany]] in historical times. In the [[Cottage of Lost Play]] the Elves toasted "to the rekindling of the [[Magic Sun]]" which [[Christopher Tolkien]] interprets as an expectation of the future event.<ref>{{LTII|VI}}, p. 286</ref><ref>{{LT1|III}}</ref> Before Yavanna tried to heal the Trees (after [[Melko]] destroyed them, before the Sun and Moon were made), she warned that a very long time will pass before the glow of the Trees or the Magic Sun will be seen again, although this name was not known yet.<ref>{{LT1|VIII}}</ref>

In Tolkien's latest writings in which Arda was a [[Round World version of the Silmarillion|round world]] from its beginning, the Two Trees held the light of the untainted Sun rather than the light of the Two Lamps, which in this history never existed. They still lit the darkened world during the Years of the Trees, though in this history the darkness came from Melkor's sorceries rather than the absence of a Sun or Moon.<ref>{{MR|P5II}}, pp. 375-385</ref>

== Inspiration ==
In an [[1965 BBC Interview|interview]], Tolkien was asked if Laurelin and Telperion were a reflection of the [[:Wikipedia:Yggdrasil|Tree of the World]] in [[Norse mythology]], but he denied it, saying that they were more like the trees of the sun and moon in the tales of Alexander the Great.<ref>{{webcite|author=[[Denys Gueroult]]|articleurl=http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p021jx7j|articlename=Author Archive Collection: J.R.R. Tolkien|dated=|website=BBC Radio|accessed=12 May 2021}}, minute 4:11</ref> [[Michael Martinez]] explains:

{{blockquote|there is a legend of two cypress trees, the Trees of the Sun and Moon, that are said to have been planted by Zoroaster himself. Alexander the Great, hearing of these trees, visited them when he conquered Persia. He asked the oracle of the trees what his future would be. The oracle told him that he would go on to conquer India but that he would then die soon afterward. In some versions of the legend the trees themselves speak to Alexander. According to Marco Polo, the Khalif Motawakkil had one of the trees cut down in the 9th Century CE (when the tree was said to be 1450 years old) and sent to Baghdad. The Khalif was subsequently murdered by his own guards (Cf. The Book of Ser by Marco Polo, the Venetian).''}}

Although there is no direct connection between J.R.R. Tolkien and Marco Polo, Martinez was informed by [[Jane Chance]] that Tolkien knew well the [[Middle English]] poem "[[:Wikipedia:Kyng Alisaunder|Kyng Alisaunder]]", which includes the tale of the trees.<ref>{{webcite|author=[[Michael Martinez]]|articleurl=http://middle-earth.xenite.org/2011/11/29/is-there-a-source-for-the-tale-of-the-two-trees/|articlename=Is There a Source for the Tale of the Two Trees?|dated=29 November 2011|website=[http://middle-earth.xenite.org/ Middle-earth.Xenite.org]|accessed=31 December 2011}}</ref>

[[Clyde S. Kilby]] also notices that the Two Trees follow the Biblical pattern of the original [[Light]], which existed prior to the Sun and Moon. Many authors, like Milton in his ''Paradise Lost'', believed there was a long period of time between the two kind of lights.<ref>[[Clyde S. Kilby]], ''[[Tolkien and The Silmarillion]]'', "Tolkien as a Christian author", pp. 59-60</ref>

== Portrayal in adaptations ==
[[File:The Rings of Power - Episode 1 - Two Trees of Valinor.webp|thumb|The Two Trees of Valinor in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power|The Rings of Power]]''.]]

In [[The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power|The Rings of Power]], the Two Trees in the show were said by [[Galadriel]] to have been slain by [[Morgoth]]; [[Ungoliant]]'s role is not mentioned. In addition, the method of how Morgoth killed them is not depicted; the show depicts the trees burning to death under a shadow of Morgoth. Morgoth killed the trees with a black spear within ''[[The Silmarillion]]''.

== See also ==
* ''[[Aldudénië]]''
* [[Light of Valinor]]

{{References}}
{{cosmology}}
[[Category:Creations of the Valar]]
[[Category:Trees]]
[[Category:Valinor]]
[[de:Zwei Bäume]]
[[fi:Valinorin Kaksi puuta]]
[[fr:encyclo:biologie:flore:deux_arbres]]

Template:Ainur

2022-09-26T00:38:42Z

Protospace: Úmaiar actual name

{| style="margin:0 auto;" class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed toccolours" width="100%" align=center
|-
! align=center style="background:#ccccff" colspan="3" | '''[[Ainur]]'''
|-
| align="right" style="background: #E6E6FF; width: 60px;" rowspan="2" | '''[[Valar]]''' 
| align="right" style="background: #F2F2FF; width: 60px; font-size: 95%;" | '''[[Lords of the Valar|Lords]]''' 
| style="font-size: 90%;"| ''[[Manwë]]'' · ''[[Ulmo]]'' · ''[[Aulë]]'' · ''[[Oromë]]'' · ''[[Mandos]]'' · [[Irmo]] · [[Tulkas]] · <s>''[[Morgoth|Melkor]]''</s>
|-
| align="right" style="background: #F2F2FF; width: 60px; font-size: 95%;" | '''[[Valier|Queens]]''' 
| style="font-size: 90%;" | ''[[Varda]]'' · ''[[Yavanna]]'' · ''[[Nienna]]'' · [[Estë]] · [[Vairë]] · [[Vána]] · [[Nessa]]
|-
| align="right" style="background: #E6E6FF; width: 60px;" rowspan="3" | '''[[Maiar]]''' 
| style="font-size: 90%;" colspan="2" | [[Arien]] · [[Eönwë]] · [[Ilmarë]] · [[Melian]] · [[Ossë]] · [[Salmar]] · [[Tilion]] · [[Uinen]]
|-
| align="right" style="background: #F2F2FF; font-size: 95%; width: 60px;" | '''[[Wizards]]''' 
| style="font-size: 90%;" | [[Saruman]] · [[Gandalf]] · [[Radagast]] · [[Blue Wizards]]
|-
| align="right" style="background: #F2F2FF; font-size: 95%; width: 60px;" | '''[[Úmaiar]]''' 
| style="font-size: 90%;" | [[Sauron]] · [[Balrogs]] ([[Gothmog (balrog)|Gothmog]] · [[Durin's Bane]]) · [[Boldog|Boldogs]]
|-
| align="center" style="background: #F2F2FF; font-size: 90%;" colspan="3" |''[[Music of the Ainur|Music]] · [[Valarin]] · [[Almaren]] · [[Valinor]] · [[Valmar]] · [[Second Music of the Ainur|Second Music]]'' • ''italics'' indicates [[Aratar]]
|}
<noinclude>[[Category:Peoples and races templates|{{PAGENAME}}]]</noinclude>

Five Guardians

2021-09-30T01:58:41Z

Protospace:

The '''Five Guardians''' were a group of [[Maiar]] according to a late and unfinished version of the [[legendarium]], written by [[J.R.R. Tolkien]] while revising key dates of the [[Valian Years]]. As the editor [[Carl F. Hostetter]] comments, these five Maiar were apparently the later [[Istari]], but the last two names are not specified,<ref>{{NM|P1xiii}}, "Notes", p. 102, note 7</ref> so it is unclear if they belong to the [[Blue Wizards]].

==History==
After [[Oromë]] found the [[Elves]] in [[Cuiviénen]], the [[Valar]] planned to make [[Battle of the Powers|War]] against [[Melkor]]. Oromë and [[Tulkas]] had dwelt with the Elves for many years, protecting them, so when they left to make war preparations, the Valar sent a group of great [[Maiar]] to guard the Elves meanwhile. They were [[Tarindor]] (later Saruman), [[Olórin]] (Gandalf), [[Hrávandil]] (Radagast), [[Palacendo]] and [[Haimenar]]. They were led by [[Melian]], who had travelled to Cuiviénen before the Five Guardians; she was the sixth Maiar guardian and was the only woman among them.<ref>{{NM|P1xiii}}, pp. 95, 99</ref> It is unrecorded how long the guardians remained at Cuiviénen or if they accompanied the [[Eldar]] on the [[Great Journey]].

{{references}}
[[Category:Maiar]]
[[Category:Organizations]]

Rhûn

2021-09-28T04:07:14Z

Protospace: /* Other versions of the legendarium */

{{location infobox
| name=Rhûn
| image=[[File:The Lord of the Rings (film series) - Rhun map.jpg|250px]]
| caption=Rhûn from a map used for [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' film series]]
| pronun=
| othernames=the East, the Eastlands, ''[[Rómen]]''
| location=Eastern Lands of [[Middle-earth]], east of [[Mordor]] and [[Rhovanion]]
| type=Region
| description=
| regions=[[Dorwinion]], [[Cuivienen]]<ref name=Captivity>{{S|Captivity}}</ref>, [[Hildorien]]<ref name=Men>{{S|Men}}</ref>, [[Wild Wood]]<ref name=Captivity></ref><ref name=Guide>{{HM|Guide}}, p. 427</ref><ref name=Atlas>{{HM|AME}}, p. 5</ref>
| towns=
| inhabitants=[[Easterlings]], [[Dwarves]], [[Avari]]
| created=
| destroyed=
| events=[[Awakening of Elves]], [[Seven Fathers of the Dwarves|Awakening of Dwarves]], [[Awakening of Men]]
}}
'''Rhûn''', also known as the '''East''', refers to the little-known lands in eastern [[Middle-earth]]. Almost nothing of the lands beyond the great [[Sea of Rhûn]] is known (see [[Land of the Sun|Uttermost East]]).

==History==
The first Elves awoke far east of the Sea of Rhûn, and many of them were led to the [[Westlands]] by [[Oromë]]. Some Elves forsook this [[Great Journey]] and chose to remain in Rhûn; they were called the [[Avari]]. Eventually some of the Avari would also migrate West.<ref>{{PE|17}}, p. 53</ref><ref>{{WJ|Author}}, note 9</ref>

The first Men also awoke in the far east, where they first met [[Dwarves]]<ref>{{WJ|Dwarves}}</ref> and Avari. The ancestors of the [[Edain]] and [[Drúedain]] traveled west out of Rhûn. At the shores of the Sea of Rhûn, some of the Mannish tribes traveling west separated and their languages soon diverged.<ref>{{PM|Ros}}, pp. 373-374</ref> Other men remained in Rhûn, and many of them came under the dominion of [[Morgoth]] and, later, [[Sauron]]. These men were called [[Easterlings]], and they led many attacks against [[Gondor]] and its allies during the [[Third Age]].

In the [[Second Age|Second]] or [[Third Age]]s the [[Blue Wizards]] went into the deep regions of Rhûn, never to return.<ref name="PMLast">{{PM|Last}}, pp. 384-85</ref> [[Saruman]] may have joined them before returning and occupying [[Isengard]]. During the [[Watchful Peace]], [[Sauron]] went to hiding in Rhûn for 400 years and gathered the Easterlings to his service; the Blue Wizards failed to discover his eastern stronghold.<ref name="PMLast"/>

The most western parts of Rhûn were conquered by Gondor twice, under the Kings [[Rómendacil I]] and [[Rómendacil II]], but the Númenóreans never had full control over it. Western Rhûn was finally subdued in the [[Fourth Age]] under [[Aragorn|King Elessar]] and his son [[Eldarion]].<ref>{{App|Eorl}}</ref>

==Geography==
[[File:Stefano Baldo - Rhûn.jpg|thumb|left|''Rhûn'' by Stefano Baldo]]
Rhûn was a wide land largely unknown to those who dwelled in the western regions, and little of its geography was recorded. The western part of Rhûn was given in maps of the [[Westlands]] of Middle-earth. It contained the great inland [[Sea of Rhûn]], connected to the [[River Running]] in the northwest. A forest lay to the north-east of the Sea, and near the south-western shores there were many hills. Wild white [[Kine of Araw]], or oxen, lived near the shores of the Sea of Rhûn. North-west of the Sea of Rhûn lay also the land of [[Dorwinion]].

[[Cuiviénen]], the land where the first [[Elves]] [[awakening of the Elves|awoke]], was a 450 mile march east or south-east of the Sea of Rhûn.<ref>{{NM|P1vi}}, p. 38</ref> It lay on the shores of a bay at the inland [[Sea of Helcar]]'s eastern end, near the feet of the [[Orocarni]] (Red Mountains).<ref name=Captivity></ref> The [[Wild Wood]], the ancient and mythical forest where the Elves wondered at their first Dawn,<ref>{{TT|Uruk}}</ref> was located near Cuiviénen and the Orocarni.<ref name=Captivity></ref><ref name=Guide></ref><ref name=Atlas></ref> Far east of Cuiviénen lay [[Hildórien]], the land where the first Men awoke.<ref name=Men></ref>

Four [[Dwarves|Dwarven]] clans were also located in Rhûn;<ref name=Dwarves></ref>{{rp|301}} their mansions were at least as far east of [[Mount Gundabad]] as Mount Gundabad was east of the [[Blue Mountains]].

Far south of the Sea of Helcar was once another inland sea, the [[Sea of Ringil]], which lay at the feet of the [[Yellow Mountains]]. In the [[Battle of the Powers]], the Sea of Ringil "became a great sea flowing north-eastward and joining by straits both the Western and Eastern Seas"; it submerged the Yellow Mountains and split Middle-earth from a newly formed continent, the [[Dark Land]].<ref>{{SM|5b}}, pp. 293-294</ref><ref name=AmbarV>{{SM|A5}}</ref>

At its easternmost extent, Middle-earth ended on the shores of the [[East Sea]].<ref name=AmbarV>{{SM|A5}}</ref>

===Dwarves of Rhûn===
[[Dwarves]] emerged in Middle-earth in the [[Years of the Trees]]; after Elves but before Men. When the [[Fathers of the Dwarves|Seven Fathers of the Dwarves]] awoke in far-flung corners of Middle-earth, some of them found themselves in Rhûn, and there they founded kingdoms in the [[East]]. In the First Age, it is said that some [[Men]] had met Dwarves of the [[East]] who had fallen under the [[Shadow]] and were of evil mind and were distrustful of their race.<ref name=Dwarves></ref>{{rp|323 n.28}}

The distance between their mansions in the East and the [[Misty Mountains]], specifically [[Gundabad]], was said to be as great or greater than that of Gundabad's distance from the [[Blue Mountains]] in the West. These four clans are the [[Ironfists]], [[Stiffbeards]], [[Blacklocks]] and [[Stonefoots]].<ref name=Dwarves>{{PM|X}}</ref>{{rp|301, 322}}

In the [[Third Age]], Dwarves of those kingdoms journeyed out of Rhûn to join all Middle-earth's other Dwarf clans in the [[War of the Dwarves and Orcs]], which was fought in and under the [[Misty Mountains]]. After this war, the survivors returned home. Late in the Third Age, when war and terror grew in Rhûn itself, considerable numbers of its Dwarves left their ancient homelands. They sought refuge in Middle-earth's western lands, where some of them met [[Frodo Baggins]].<ref>{{FR|Shadow}}</ref>

==Etymology==
The word '''''Rhûn''''' means "East" in [[Sindarin]]. Compare [[Quenya]] ''[[rómen]]''.<ref>{{App|E2i}}</ref>

==Inspiration==
When asked in an interview what lay east of Rhûn, Tolkien replied "Rhûn is the Elvish word for 'east'. Asia, China, Japan, and all things which people in the west regard as far away."<ref>{{webcite|author=Henry Resnick|articleurl=https://efanzines.com/Niekas/Niekas-18.pdf|articlename=An Interview with Tolkien|dated=2 March 1966|website=Niekas Volume 18 (archived on eFanzines.com)|accessed=27 September 2022}}, p. 41</ref>

In the earliest drafts of ''[[The Hobbit]]'', Bilbo offered to walk from the [[The Shire|Shire]] "to ''[cancelled: [[Wikipedia:Hindu Kush|Hindu Kush]]]'' the [[Wikipedia:Gobi Desert|Great Desert of Gobi]] and fight the Wild Wire worm(s) of the [[Wikipedia:China|Chinese]]."<ref>{{HH|Pryftan}}, p. 9</ref> In a slightly later version [[J.R.R. Tolkien]] altered this to say "to the last desert in the East and fight the Wild Wireworms of the Chinese",<ref>{{HH|Bladorthin}}, p. 40</ref> and in the final version it was altered once more to say "to the East of East and fight the wild [[Were-worms]] in the [[Last Desert]]."<ref>{{H|Party}}</ref>

The Wainriders, as well as the Balchoth, were known for traveling in great camps of wagons which they fortified.<ref>{{App|Gondor}}</ref> Given the eastern origins of the group, this bears many similarities to the [[Wikipedia:Orda (organization)|orda]] military structure employed by the [[Wikipedia:Turkic peoples|Turkic]] and [[Wikipedia:Mongols|Mongol]] peoples.{{fact}}

==Other versions of the legendarium==
In a [[1948]] note on his ''[[General Map of Middle-earth]]'', [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] drew an arrow from the [[River Running]] with the direction to the end of the map, and carries the note: "To Sea of Rûnaer". [[Wayne G. Hammond|Hammond]] and [[Christina Scull|Scull]] suggest that '''''Rûnaer''''' is likely an alternative name of ''Rhûn''.<ref>{{HM|AoL}}, p. 199</ref>

In early draft maps for ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', Tolkien indicated that ''[[Neldoreth]]'' was the name of the forest bordering the Sea of Rhûn's north-eastern shore. This forest went unnamed in later maps.<ref>{{TI|MII}}, p. 307</ref>

==Other notes==
As the general direction of the [[West]] was revered by the [[Gondorians]],<ref>{{TT|Window}}</ref> conversely the East had evil connotations in some contexts as it was where [[Mordor]] lay; the people of Gondor endured the east wind but do not ask it for tidings, because it came from the "[[Sauron|Evil in the East]]".<ref>{{TT|III1}}</ref>

==Portrayal in adaptations==
'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''
:On the [[25 March]], the day when [[The One Ring]] was destroyed, an unknown calamity took place in Rhûn. In the weeks afterwards, streams of refugees begin pouring into the [[Iron Hills]] and the [[Dale]]-lands, despite those places having waged a war against the [[Easterlings]] not a full month before. The refugees are willing to take their chances against the prejudice and outward hostility directed against them from the men and dwarves of those lands, but none of them would speak in detail about what exactly had happened in Rhûn, other than it is absolutely impossible for them to go back. As of 2021, Rhûn itself does not appear in the game.

==See also==
*[[Uttermost East]]
*[[Last Desert]]
*[[Uttermost West]]

{{references}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Rhun}}
[[Category:Eastern lands]]
[[Category:Sindarin locations]]
[[Category:Sindarin nouns]]
[[de:Rhûn]]
[[fi:Rhûn]]
[[fr:encyclo/geographie/regions/rhun]]

Rhûn

2021-09-27T19:54:12Z

Protospace: Replacing conjecture with sourced statement

{{location infobox
| name=Rhûn
| image=[[File:The Lord of the Rings (film series) - Rhun map.jpg|250px]]
| caption=Rhûn from a map used for [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' film series]]
| pronun=
| othernames=the East, the Eastlands, ''[[Rómen]]''
| location=Eastern Lands of [[Middle-earth]], east of [[Mordor]] and [[Rhovanion]]
| type=Region
| description=
| regions=[[Dorwinion]], [[Cuivienen]]<ref name=Captivity>{{S|Captivity}}</ref>, [[Hildorien]]<ref name=Men>{{S|Men}}</ref>, [[Wild Wood]]<ref name=Captivity></ref><ref name=Guide>{{HM|Guide}}, p. 427</ref><ref name=Atlas>{{HM|AME}}, p. 5</ref>
| towns=
| inhabitants=[[Easterlings]], [[Dwarves]], [[Avari]]
| created=
| destroyed=
| events=[[Awakening of Elves]], [[Seven Fathers of the Dwarves|Awakening of Dwarves]], [[Awakening of Men]]
}}
'''Rhûn''', also known as the '''East''', refers to the little-known lands in eastern [[Middle-earth]]. Almost nothing of the lands beyond the great [[Sea of Rhûn]] is known (see [[Land of the Sun|Uttermost East]]).

==History==
The first Elves awoke far east of the Sea of Rhûn, and many of them were led to the [[Westlands]] by [[Oromë]]. Some Elves forsook this [[Great Journey]] and chose to remain in Rhûn; they were called the [[Avari]]. Eventually some of the Avari would also migrate West.<ref>{{PE|17}}, p. 53</ref><ref>{{WJ|Author}}, note 9</ref>

The first Men also awoke in the far east, where they first met [[Dwarves]]<ref>{{WJ|Dwarves}}</ref> and Avari. The ancestors of the [[Edain]] and [[Drúedain]] traveled west out of Rhûn. At the shores of the Sea of Rhûn, some of the Mannish tribes traveling west separated and their languages soon diverged.<ref>{{PM|Ros}}, pp. 373-374</ref> Other men remained in Rhûn, and many of them came under the dominion of [[Morgoth]] and, later, [[Sauron]]. These men were called [[Easterlings]], and they led many attacks against [[Gondor]] and its allies during the [[Third Age]].

In the [[Second Age|Second]] or [[Third Age]]s the [[Blue Wizards]] went into the deep regions of Rhûn, never to return.<ref name="PMLast">{{PM|Last}}, pp. 384-85</ref> [[Saruman]] may have joined them before returning and occupying [[Isengard]]. During the [[Watchful Peace]], [[Sauron]] went to hiding in Rhûn for 400 years and gathered the Easterlings to his service; the Blue Wizards failed to discover his eastern stronghold.<ref name="PMLast"/>

The most western parts of Rhûn were conquered by Gondor twice, under the Kings [[Rómendacil I]] and [[Rómendacil II]], but the Númenóreans never had full control over it. Western Rhûn was finally subdued in the [[Fourth Age]] under [[Aragorn|King Elessar]] and his son [[Eldarion]].<ref>{{App|Eorl}}</ref>

==Geography==
[[File:Stefano Baldo - Rhûn.jpg|thumb|left|''Rhûn'' by Stefano Baldo]]
Rhûn was a wide land largely unknown to those who dwelled in the western regions, and little of its geography was recorded. The western part of Rhûn was given in maps of the [[Westlands]] of Middle-earth. It contained the great inland [[Sea of Rhûn]], connected to the [[River Running]] in the northwest. A forest lay to the north-east of the Sea, and near the south-western shores there were many hills. Wild white [[Kine of Araw]], or oxen, lived near the shores of the Sea of Rhûn. North-west of the Sea of Rhûn lay also the land of [[Dorwinion]].

[[Cuiviénen]], the land where the first [[Elves]] [[awakening of the Elves|awoke]], was a 450 mile march east or south-east of the Sea of Rhûn.<ref>{{NM|P1vi}}, p. 38</ref> It lay on the shores of a bay at the inland [[Sea of Helcar]]'s eastern end, near the feet of the [[Orocarni]] (Red Mountains).<ref name=Captivity></ref> The [[Wild Wood]], the ancient and mythical forest where the Elves wondered at their first Dawn,<ref>{{TT|Uruk}}</ref> was located near Cuiviénen and the Orocarni.<ref name=Captivity></ref><ref name=Guide></ref><ref name=Atlas></ref> Far east of Cuiviénen lay [[Hildórien]], the land where the first Men awoke.<ref name=Men></ref>

Four [[Dwarves|Dwarven]] clans were also located in Rhûn;<ref name=Dwarves></ref>{{rp|301}} their mansions were at least as far east of [[Mount Gundabad]] as Mount Gundabad was east of the [[Blue Mountains]].

Far south of the Sea of Helcar was once another inland sea, the [[Sea of Ringil]], which lay at the feet of the [[Yellow Mountains]]. In the [[Battle of the Powers]], the Sea of Ringil "became a great sea flowing north-eastward and joining by straits both the Western and Eastern Seas"; it submerged the Yellow Mountains and split Middle-earth from a newly formed continent, the [[Dark Land]].<ref>{{SM|5b}}, pp. 293-294</ref><ref name=AmbarV>{{SM|A5}}</ref>

At its easternmost extent, Middle-earth ended on the shores of the [[East Sea]].<ref name=AmbarV>{{SM|A5}}</ref>

===Dwarves of Rhûn===
[[Dwarves]] emerged in Middle-earth in the [[Years of the Trees]]; after Elves but before Men. When the [[Fathers of the Dwarves|Seven Fathers of the Dwarves]] awoke in far-flung corners of Middle-earth, some of them found themselves in Rhûn, and there they founded kingdoms in the [[East]]. In the First Age, it is said that some [[Men]] had met Dwarves of the [[East]] who had fallen under the [[Shadow]] and were of evil mind and were distrustful of their race.<ref name=Dwarves></ref>{{rp|323 n.28}}

The distance between their mansions in the East and the [[Misty Mountains]], specifically [[Gundabad]], was said to be as great or greater than that of Gundabad's distance from the [[Blue Mountains]] in the West. These four clans are the [[Ironfists]], [[Stiffbeards]], [[Blacklocks]] and [[Stonefoots]].<ref name=Dwarves>{{PM|X}}</ref>{{rp|301, 322}}

In the [[Third Age]], Dwarves of those kingdoms journeyed out of Rhûn to join all Middle-earth's other Dwarf clans in the [[War of the Dwarves and Orcs]], which was fought in and under the [[Misty Mountains]]. After this war, the survivors returned home. Late in the Third Age, when war and terror grew in Rhûn itself, considerable numbers of its Dwarves left their ancient homelands. They sought refuge in Middle-earth's western lands, where some of them met [[Frodo Baggins]].<ref>{{FR|Shadow}}</ref>

==Etymology==
The word '''''Rhûn''''' means "East" in [[Sindarin]]. Compare [[Quenya]] ''[[rómen]]''.<ref>{{App|E2i}}</ref>

==Inspiration==
When asked in an interview what lay east of Rhûn, Tolkien replied "Rhûn is the Elvish word for 'east'. Asia, China, Japan, and all things which people in the west regard as far away."<ref>{{webcite|author=Henry Resnick|articleurl=https://efanzines.com/Niekas/Niekas-18.pdf|articlename=An Interview with Tolkien|dated=2 March 1966|website=Niekas Volume 18 (archived on eFanzines.com)|accessed=27 September 2022}}, p. 41</ref>

In the earliest drafts of ''[[The Hobbit]]'', Bilbo offered to walk from the [[The Shire|Shire]] "to ''[cancelled: [[Wikipedia:Hindu Kush|Hindu Kush]]]'' the [[Wikipedia:Gobi Desert|Great Desert of Gobi]] and fight the Wild Wire worm(s) of the [[Wikipedia:China|Chinese]]."<ref>{{HH|Pryftan}}, p. 9</ref> In a slightly later version [[J.R.R. Tolkien]] altered this to say "to the last desert in the East and fight the Wild Wireworms of the Chinese",<ref>{{HH|Bladorthin}}, p. 40</ref> and in the final version it was altered once more to say "to the East of East and fight the wild [[Were-worms]] in the [[Last Desert]]."<ref>{{H|Party}}</ref>

The Wainriders, as well as the Balchoth, were known for traveling in great camps of wagons which they fortified.<ref>{{App|Gondor}}</ref> Given the eastern origins of the group, this bears many similarities to the [[Wikipedia:Orda (organization)|orda]] military structure employed by the [[Wikipedia:Turkic peoples|Turkic]] and [[Wikipedia:Mongols|Mongol]] peoples.{{fact}}

==Other versions of the legendarium==
In a [[1948]] note on his ''[[General Map of Middle-earth]]'', [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] drew an arrow from the [[River Running]] with the direction to the end of the map, and carries the note: "To Sea of Rûnaer". [[Wayne G. Hammond|Hammond]] and [[Christina Scull|Scull]] suggest that '''''Rûnaer''''' is likely an alternative name of ''Rhûn''.<ref>{{HM|AoL}}, p. 199</ref>

==Other notes==
As the general direction of the [[West]] was revered by the [[Gondorians]],<ref>{{TT|Window}}</ref> conversely the East had evil connotations in some contexts as it was where [[Mordor]] lay; the people of Gondor endured the east wind but do not ask it for tidings, because it came from the "[[Sauron|Evil in the East]]".<ref>{{TT|III1}}</ref>

==Portrayal in adaptations==
'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''
:On the [[25 March]], the day when [[The One Ring]] was destroyed, an unknown calamity took place in Rhûn. In the weeks afterwards, streams of refugees begin pouring into the [[Iron Hills]] and the [[Dale]]-lands, despite those places having waged a war against the [[Easterlings]] not a full month before. The refugees are willing to take their chances against the prejudice and outward hostility directed against them from the men and dwarves of those lands, but none of them would speak in detail about what exactly had happened in Rhûn, other than it is absolutely impossible for them to go back. As of 2021, Rhûn itself does not appear in the game.

==See also==
*[[Uttermost East]]
*[[Last Desert]]
*[[Uttermost West]]

{{references}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Rhun}}
[[Category:Eastern lands]]
[[Category:Sindarin locations]]
[[Category:Sindarin nouns]]
[[de:Rhûn]]
[[fi:Rhûn]]
[[fr:encyclo/geographie/regions/rhun]]

User:Protospace

2021-09-27T05:55:43Z

Protospace: /* Tolkien books I own */

{{user infobox
| name= The Void
| location = [[Dark Land]]
| userboxes=
{{user interwiki|[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page the English Wikipedia]}}
{{user ref}}
{{user recentchanges}}
{{User balrogwings2}}
{{user wizards}}
{{user USA}}
{{User en-N}}
| noscroll =
| userboxheight = 342px
}}

Welcome! Please feel free to reach out to my on my talk page if you'd like to chat.

I'm especially interested in Arda's geography and the workings of "magic" in Tolkien's universe.

[[User:Protospace/Sandbox|My sandbox]]

==Tolkien books I own==
I currently have access to the following Tolkien books:
* ''[[The Hobbit]]''
* ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]''
* ''[[The Silmarillion]]''
* ''[[The Children of Hurin]]''
* ''[[Unfinished Tales]]''
* ''[[The History of Middle-earth]]''
** ''[[The Book of Lost Tales Part One]]''
** ''[[The Book of Lost Tales Part Two]]''
** ''[[The Lays of Beleriand]]''
** ''[[The Shaping of Middle-earth]]''
** ''[[The Lost Road]]''
** ''[[The Return of the Shadow]]''
** ''[[The Treason of Isengard]]''
** ''[[The War of the Ring]]''
** ''[[Sauron Defeated]]''
** ''[[Morgoth's Ring]]''
** ''[[The War of the Jewels]]''
** ''[[The Peoples of Middle-earth]]''
* ''[[The Nature of Middle-earth]]
* ''[[The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien]]''

==Major contributions==
* [[Dark Land]]
* [[Beleriand]]
* [[Great Gulf]]
* [[Valar]]
* [[Rings of Power]]
* [[Númenor]] and [[Downfall of Númenor]]
* [[Elven life cycle]]
* [[únat]] (created)
* [[Exiles (disambiguation)]] (created)
* [[Exile of the Noldor]]
* [[East Sea]] (major expansion)
* [[TG:MOS]]
* [[H:References]]

==Thoughts on Tolkien's legendarium==
* [[User:Protospace/Towards a Canonical Geography of Arda|Towards a Canonical Geography of Arda]] (draft)

==Favorite quotes==
{{blockquote|If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world.
|''[[Thorin]]'', [[The Hobbit]], "[[The Return Journey]]"}}

{{blockquote|Tears unnumbered ye shall shed; and the Valar will fence Valinor against you, and shut you out, so that not even the echo of your lamentation shall pass over the mountains.
|''[[Mandos]],'' [[The Silmarillion]], "[[Of the Flight of the Noldor]]"}}

{{blockquote|Baruk Khazâd! Khazâd ai-mênu!
|''[[Gimli]]'', [[The Two Towers]], "[[Helm's Deep (chapter)|Helm's Deep]]"}}

==Soapbox==
Did you know that Tolkien ''never'' said that the [[Orocarni]] were inhabited by the four eastern clans of the [[Dwarves]]? Based on what Tolkien Gateway once said on this subject (across many articles), I used to think he must have said that at some point. I didn't realize the truth until I got my hands on ''[[The History of Middle-earth]]'' series and confirmed for myself that he never did. This is but one example of something I've personally removed from this website (and many other editors have removed far more fancruft that I have!).

Please don't add [[fanon]] to Tolkien Gateway. There's enough complexity and beauty in Tolkien's work to fill volumes without personal additions from us editors.

Rhûn

2021-09-27T04:08:57Z

Protospace: /* Geography */

{{location infobox
| name=Rhûn
| image=[[File:The Lord of the Rings (film series) - Rhun map.jpg|250px]]
| caption=Rhûn from a map used for [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' film series]]
| pronun=
| othernames=the East, the Eastlands, ''[[Rómen]]''
| location=Eastern Lands of [[Middle-earth]], east of [[Mordor]] and [[Rhovanion]]
| type=Region
| description=
| regions=[[Dorwinion]], [[Cuivienen]]<ref name=Captivity>{{S|Captivity}}</ref>, [[Hildorien]]<ref name=Men>{{S|Men}}</ref>, [[Wild Wood]]<ref name=Captivity></ref><ref name=Guide>{{HM|Guide}}, p. 427</ref><ref name=Atlas>{{HM|AME}}, p. 5</ref>
| towns=
| inhabitants=[[Easterlings]], [[Dwarves]], [[Avari]]
| created=
| destroyed=
| events=[[Awakening of Elves]], [[Seven Fathers of the Dwarves|Awakening of Dwarves]], [[Awakening of Men]]
}}
'''Rhûn''', also known as the '''East''', refers to the little-known lands in eastern [[Middle-earth]]. Almost nothing of the lands beyond the great [[Sea of Rhûn]] is known (see [[Land of the Sun|Uttermost East]]).

==History==
The first Elves awoke far east of the Sea of Rhûn, and many of them were led to the [[Westlands]] by [[Oromë]]. Some Elves forsook this [[Great Journey]] and chose to remain in Rhûn; they were called the [[Avari]]. Eventually some of the Avari would also migrate West.<ref>{{PE|17}}, p. 53</ref><ref>{{WJ|Author}}, note 9</ref>

The first Men also awoke in the far east, where they first met [[Dwarves]]<ref>{{WJ|Dwarves}}</ref> and Avari. The ancestors of the [[Edain]] and [[Drúedain]] traveled west out of Rhûn. At the shores of the Sea of Rhûn, some of the Mannish tribes traveling west separated and their languages soon diverged.<ref>{{PM|Ros}}, pp. 373-374</ref> Other men remained in Rhûn, and many of them came under the dominion of [[Morgoth]] and, later, [[Sauron]]. These men were called [[Easterlings]], and they led many attacks against [[Gondor]] and its allies during the [[Third Age]].

In the [[Second Age|Second]] or [[Third Age]]s the [[Blue Wizards]] went into the deep regions of Rhûn, never to return.<ref name="PMLast">{{PM|Last}}, pp. 384-85</ref> [[Saruman]] may have joined them before returning and occupying [[Isengard]]. During the [[Watchful Peace]], [[Sauron]] went to hiding in Rhûn for 400 years and gathered the Easterlings to his service; the Blue Wizards failed to discover his eastern stronghold.<ref name="PMLast"/>

The most western parts of Rhûn were conquered by Gondor twice, under the Kings [[Rómendacil I]] and [[Rómendacil II]], but the Númenóreans never had full control over it. Western Rhûn was finally subdued in the [[Fourth Age]] under [[Aragorn|King Elessar]] and his son [[Eldarion]].<ref>{{App|Eorl}}</ref>

==Geography==
[[File:Stefano Baldo - Rhûn.jpg|thumb|left|''Rhûn'' by Stefano Baldo]]
Rhûn was a wide land largely unknown to those who dwelled in the western regions, and little of its geography was recorded. The western part of Rhûn was given in maps of the [[Westlands]] of Middle-earth. It contained the great inland [[Sea of Rhûn]], connected to the [[River Running]] in the northwest. A forest lay to the north-east of the Sea, and near the south-western shores there were many hills. Wild white [[Kine of Araw]], or oxen, lived near the shores of the Sea of Rhûn. North-west of the Sea of Rhûn lay also the land of [[Dorwinion]].

[[Cuiviénen]], the land where the first [[Elves]] [[awakening of the Elves|awoke]], was a 450 mile march east or southeast of the Sea of Rhûn.<ref>{{NM|P1vi}}, p. 38</ref> It lay on the shores of a bay at the inland [[Sea of Helcar]]'s eastern end, near the feet of the [[Orocarni]] (Red Mountains).<ref name=Captivity></ref> The [[Wild Wood]], the ancient and mythical forest where the Elves wondered at their first Dawn,<ref>{{TT|Uruk}}</ref> was located near Cuiviénen and the Orocarni.<ref name=Captivity></ref><ref name=Guide></ref><ref name=Atlas></ref> Far east of Cuiviénen lay [[Hildórien]], the land where the first Men awoke.<ref name=Men></ref>

Four [[Dwarves|Dwarven]] clans were also located in Rhûn;<ref name=Dwarves></ref>{{rp|301}} their mansions were at least as far east of [[Mount Gundabad]] as Mount Gundabad was east of the [[Blue Mountains]].

Far south of the Sea of Helcar was once another inland sea, the [[Sea of Ringil]], which lay at the feet of the [[Yellow Mountains]]. In the [[Battle of the Powers]], the Sea of Ringil "became a great sea flowing north-eastward and joining by straits both the Western and Eastern Seas"; it submerged the Yellow Mountains and split Middle-earth from a newly formed continent, the [[Dark Land]].<ref>{{SM|5b}}, pp. 293-294</ref><ref name=AmbarV>{{SM|A5}}</ref>

At its easternmost extent, Middle-earth ended on the shores of the [[East Sea]].<ref name=AmbarV>{{SM|A5}}</ref>

===Dwarves of Rhûn===
[[Dwarves]] emerged in Middle-earth in the [[Years of the Trees]]; after Elves but before Men. When the [[Fathers of the Dwarves|Seven Fathers of the Dwarves]] awoke in far-flung corners of Middle-earth, some of them found themselves in Rhûn, and there they founded kingdoms in the [[East]]. In the First Age, it is said that some [[Men]] had met Dwarves of the [[East]] who had fallen under the [[Shadow]] and were of evil mind and were distrustful of their race.<ref name=Dwarves></ref>{{rp|323 n.28}}

The distance between their mansions in the East and the [[Misty Mountains]], specifically [[Gundabad]], was said to be as great or greater than that of Gundabad's distance from the [[Blue Mountains]] in the West. These four clans are the [[Ironfists]], [[Stiffbeards]], [[Blacklocks]] and [[Stonefoots]].<ref name=Dwarves>{{PM|X}}</ref>{{rp|301, 322}}

In the [[Third Age]], Dwarves of those kingdoms journeyed out of Rhûn to join all Middle-earth's other Dwarf clans in the [[War of the Dwarves and Orcs]], which was fought in and under the [[Misty Mountains]]. After this war, the survivors returned home. Late in the Third Age, when war and terror grew in Rhûn itself, considerable numbers of its Dwarves left their ancient homelands. They sought refuge in Middle-earth's western lands, where some of them met [[Frodo Baggins]].<ref>{{FR|Shadow}}</ref>

==Etymology==
The word '''''Rhûn''''' means "East" in [[Sindarin]]. Compare [[Quenya]] ''[[rómen]]''.<ref>{{App|E2i}}</ref>

==Inspiration==
Rhûn and the easternmost lands of Middle-earth seem to be based primarily on the lands of [[Wikipedia:South Asia|southern]], [[Wikipedia:Central Asia|central]], and [[Wikipedia:East Asia|eastern Asia]].

In the earliest drafts of ''[[The Hobbit]]'', Bilbo offered to walk from the [[The Shire|Shire]] "to ''[cancelled: [[Wikipedia:Hindu Kush|Hindu Kush]]]'' the [[Wikipedia:Gobi Desert|Great Desert of Gobi]] and fight the Wild Wire worm(s) of the [[Wikipedia:China|Chinese]]."<ref>{{HH|Pryftan}}, p. 9</ref> In a slightly later version [[J.R.R. Tolkien]] altered this to say "to the last desert in the East and fight the Wild Wireworms of the Chinese",<ref>{{HH|Bladorthin}}, p. 40</ref> and in the final version it was altered once more to say "to the East of East and fight the wild [[Were-worms]] in the [[Last Desert]]."<ref>{{H|Party}}</ref>

The Wainriders, as well as the Balchoth, were known for traveling in great camps of wagons which they fortified.<ref>{{App|Gondor}}</ref> Given the eastern origins of the group, this bears many similarities to the [[Wikipedia:Orda (organization)|orda]] military structure employed by the [[Wikipedia:Turkic peoples|Turkic]] and [[Wikipedia:Mongols|Mongol]] peoples.{{fact}}

==Other versions of the legendarium==
In a [[1948]] note on his ''[[General Map of Middle-earth]]'', [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] drew an arrow from the [[River Running]] with the direction to the end of the map, and carries the note: "To Sea of Rûnaer". [[Wayne G. Hammond|Hammond]] and [[Christina Scull|Scull]] suggest that '''''Rûnaer''''' is likely an alternative name of ''Rhûn''.<ref>{{HM|AoL}}, p. 199</ref>

==Other notes==
As the general direction of the [[West]] was revered by the [[Gondorians]],<ref>{{TT|Window}}</ref> conversely the East had evil connotations in some contexts as it was where [[Mordor]] lay; the people of Gondor endured the east wind but do not ask it for tidings, because it came from the "[[Sauron|Evil in the East]]".<ref>{{TT|III1}}</ref>

==Portrayal in adaptations==
'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''
:On the [[25 March]], the day when [[The One Ring]] was destroyed, an unknown calamity had taken place in Rhûn. In the weeks afterwards, streams of refugees begin pouring into the [[Iron Hills]] and the [[Dale]]-lands, despite those places having waged a war against the [[Easterlings]] not a full month before. The refugees are willing to take their chances against the prejudice and outward hostility directed against them from the men and dwarves of those lands, but none of them would speak in detail about what exactly had happened in Rhûn, other than it is absolutely impossible for them to go back.
: As of 2021, Rhûn itself does not appear in the game.

==See also==
*[[Uttermost East]]
*[[Last Desert]]
*[[Uttermost West]]

{{references}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Rhun}}
[[Category:Eastern lands]]
[[Category:Sindarin locations]]
[[Category:Sindarin nouns]]
[[de:Rhûn]]
[[fi:Rhûn]]
[[fr:encyclo/geographie/regions/rhun]]

Rhûn

2021-09-27T04:06:49Z

Protospace: /* Geography */ + info, sources; tweak organization

{{location infobox
| name=Rhûn
| image=[[File:The Lord of the Rings (film series) - Rhun map.jpg|250px]]
| caption=Rhûn from a map used for [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' film series]]
| pronun=
| othernames=the East, the Eastlands, ''[[Rómen]]''
| location=Eastern Lands of [[Middle-earth]], east of [[Mordor]] and [[Rhovanion]]
| type=Region
| description=
| regions=[[Dorwinion]], [[Cuivienen]]<ref name=Captivity>{{S|Captivity}}</ref>, [[Hildorien]]<ref name=Men>{{S|Men}}</ref>, [[Wild Wood]]<ref name=Captivity></ref><ref name=Guide>{{HM|Guide}}, p. 427</ref><ref name=Atlas>{{HM|AME}}, p. 5</ref>
| towns=
| inhabitants=[[Easterlings]], [[Dwarves]], [[Avari]]
| created=
| destroyed=
| events=[[Awakening of Elves]], [[Seven Fathers of the Dwarves|Awakening of Dwarves]], [[Awakening of Men]]
}}
'''Rhûn''', also known as the '''East''', refers to the little-known lands in eastern [[Middle-earth]]. Almost nothing of the lands beyond the great [[Sea of Rhûn]] is known (see [[Land of the Sun|Uttermost East]]).

==History==
The first Elves awoke far east of the Sea of Rhûn, and many of them were led to the [[Westlands]] by [[Oromë]]. Some Elves forsook this [[Great Journey]] and chose to remain in Rhûn; they were called the [[Avari]]. Eventually some of the Avari would also migrate West.<ref>{{PE|17}}, p. 53</ref><ref>{{WJ|Author}}, note 9</ref>

The first Men also awoke in the far east, where they first met [[Dwarves]]<ref>{{WJ|Dwarves}}</ref> and Avari. The ancestors of the [[Edain]] and [[Drúedain]] traveled west out of Rhûn. At the shores of the Sea of Rhûn, some of the Mannish tribes traveling west separated and their languages soon diverged.<ref>{{PM|Ros}}, pp. 373-374</ref> Other men remained in Rhûn, and many of them came under the dominion of [[Morgoth]] and, later, [[Sauron]]. These men were called [[Easterlings]], and they led many attacks against [[Gondor]] and its allies during the [[Third Age]].

In the [[Second Age|Second]] or [[Third Age]]s the [[Blue Wizards]] went into the deep regions of Rhûn, never to return.<ref name="PMLast">{{PM|Last}}, pp. 384-85</ref> [[Saruman]] may have joined them before returning and occupying [[Isengard]]. During the [[Watchful Peace]], [[Sauron]] went to hiding in Rhûn for 400 years and gathered the Easterlings to his service; the Blue Wizards failed to discover his eastern stronghold.<ref name="PMLast"/>

The most western parts of Rhûn were conquered by Gondor twice, under the Kings [[Rómendacil I]] and [[Rómendacil II]], but the Númenóreans never had full control over it. Western Rhûn was finally subdued in the [[Fourth Age]] under [[Aragorn|King Elessar]] and his son [[Eldarion]].<ref>{{App|Eorl}}</ref>

==Geography==
[[File:Stefano Baldo - Rhûn.jpg|thumb|left|''Rhûn'' by Stefano Baldo]]
Rhûn was a wide land largely unknown to those who dwelled in the western regions, and little of its geography was recorded. The western part of Rhûn was given in maps of the [[Westlands]] of Middle-earth. It contained the great inland [[Sea of Rhûn]], connected to the [[River Running]] in the northwest. A forest lay to the north-east of the Sea, and near the south-western shores there were many hills. Wild white [[Kine of Araw]], or oxen, lived near the shores of the Sea of Rhûn. North-west of the Sea of Rhûn lay also the land of [[Dorwinion]].

[[Cuiviénen]], the land where the first [[Elves]] [[awakening of the Elves|awoke]], was a 450 mile march east or southeast of the Sea of Rhûn.<ref>{{NM|P1vi}}, p. 38</ref> It lay on the shores of a bay at the inland [[Sea of Helcar]]'s eastern end, near the feet of the [[Orocarni]] (Red Mountains).<ref name=Captivity></ref> The [[Wild Wood]], the ancient and mythical forest where the Elves wondered at their first Dawn,<ref>{{TT|Uruk}}</ref> was located near Cuiviénen and the Orocarni.<ref name=Captivity></ref><ref name=Guide></ref><ref name=Atlas></ref> Far east of Cuiviénen lay [[Hildórien]], the land where the first Men awoke.<ref name=Men></ref>

Four [[Dwarves|Dwarven]] clans were also located in Rhûn;<ref name=Dwarves></ref>{{rp|301}} their mansions were at least as far east of [[Mount Gundabad]] as Mount Gundabad was east of the [[Blue Mountains]].

Far south of the Sea of Helcar was once another inland sea, the Sea of Ringil, which lay at the feet of the [[Yellow Mountains]]. In the [[Battle of the Powers]], the Sea of Ringil "became a great sea flowing north-eastward and joining by straits both the Western and Eastern Seas"; it submerged the Yellow Mountains and split Middle-earth from a newly formed continent, the [[Dark Land]].<ref>{{SM|5b}}, pp. 293-294</ref><ref name=AmbarV>{{SM|A5}}</ref>

At its easternmost extent, Middle-earth ended on the shores of the [[East Sea]].<ref name=AmbarV>{{SM|A5}}</ref>

===Dwarves of Rhûn===
[[Dwarves]] emerged in Middle-earth in the [[Years of the Trees]]; after Elves but before Men. When the [[Fathers of the Dwarves|Seven Fathers of the Dwarves]] awoke in far-flung corners of Middle-earth, some of them found themselves in Rhûn, and there they founded kingdoms in the [[East]]. In the First Age, it is said that some [[Men]] had met Dwarves of the [[East]] who had fallen under the [[Shadow]] and were of evil mind and were distrustful of their race.<ref name=Dwarves></ref>{{rp|323 n.28}}

The distance between their mansions in the East and the [[Misty Mountains]], specifically [[Gundabad]], was said to be as great or greater than that of Gundabad's distance from the [[Blue Mountains]] in the West. These four clans are the [[Ironfists]], [[Stiffbeards]], [[Blacklocks]] and [[Stonefoots]].<ref name=Dwarves>{{PM|X}}</ref>{{rp|301, 322}}

In the [[Third Age]], Dwarves of those kingdoms journeyed out of Rhûn to join all Middle-earth's other Dwarf clans in the [[War of the Dwarves and Orcs]], which was fought in and under the [[Misty Mountains]]. After this war, the survivors returned home. Late in the Third Age, when war and terror grew in Rhûn itself, considerable numbers of its Dwarves left their ancient homelands. They sought refuge in Middle-earth's western lands, where some of them met [[Frodo Baggins]].<ref>{{FR|Shadow}}</ref>

==Etymology==
The word '''''Rhûn''''' means "East" in [[Sindarin]]. Compare [[Quenya]] ''[[rómen]]''.<ref>{{App|E2i}}</ref>

==Inspiration==
Rhûn and the easternmost lands of Middle-earth seem to be based primarily on the lands of [[Wikipedia:South Asia|southern]], [[Wikipedia:Central Asia|central]], and [[Wikipedia:East Asia|eastern Asia]].

In the earliest drafts of ''[[The Hobbit]]'', Bilbo offered to walk from the [[The Shire|Shire]] "to ''[cancelled: [[Wikipedia:Hindu Kush|Hindu Kush]]]'' the [[Wikipedia:Gobi Desert|Great Desert of Gobi]] and fight the Wild Wire worm(s) of the [[Wikipedia:China|Chinese]]."<ref>{{HH|Pryftan}}, p. 9</ref> In a slightly later version [[J.R.R. Tolkien]] altered this to say "to the last desert in the East and fight the Wild Wireworms of the Chinese",<ref>{{HH|Bladorthin}}, p. 40</ref> and in the final version it was altered once more to say "to the East of East and fight the wild [[Were-worms]] in the [[Last Desert]]."<ref>{{H|Party}}</ref>

The Wainriders, as well as the Balchoth, were known for traveling in great camps of wagons which they fortified.<ref>{{App|Gondor}}</ref> Given the eastern origins of the group, this bears many similarities to the [[Wikipedia:Orda (organization)|orda]] military structure employed by the [[Wikipedia:Turkic peoples|Turkic]] and [[Wikipedia:Mongols|Mongol]] peoples.{{fact}}

==Other versions of the legendarium==
In a [[1948]] note on his ''[[General Map of Middle-earth]]'', [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] drew an arrow from the [[River Running]] with the direction to the end of the map, and carries the note: "To Sea of Rûnaer". [[Wayne G. Hammond|Hammond]] and [[Christina Scull|Scull]] suggest that '''''Rûnaer''''' is likely an alternative name of ''Rhûn''.<ref>{{HM|AoL}}, p. 199</ref>

==Other notes==
As the general direction of the [[West]] was revered by the [[Gondorians]],<ref>{{TT|Window}}</ref> conversely the East had evil connotations in some contexts as it was where [[Mordor]] lay; the people of Gondor endured the east wind but do not ask it for tidings, because it came from the "[[Sauron|Evil in the East]]".<ref>{{TT|III1}}</ref>

==Portrayal in adaptations==
'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''
:On the [[25 March]], the day when [[The One Ring]] was destroyed, an unknown calamity had taken place in Rhûn. In the weeks afterwards, streams of refugees begin pouring into the [[Iron Hills]] and the [[Dale]]-lands, despite those places having waged a war against the [[Easterlings]] not a full month before. The refugees are willing to take their chances against the prejudice and outward hostility directed against them from the men and dwarves of those lands, but none of them would speak in detail about what exactly had happened in Rhûn, other than it is absolutely impossible for them to go back.
: As of 2021, Rhûn itself does not appear in the game.

==See also==
*[[Uttermost East]]
*[[Last Desert]]
*[[Uttermost West]]

{{references}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Rhun}}
[[Category:Eastern lands]]
[[Category:Sindarin locations]]
[[Category:Sindarin nouns]]
[[de:Rhûn]]
[[fi:Rhûn]]
[[fr:encyclo/geographie/regions/rhun]]

Cold-drakes

2021-09-27T02:48:51Z

Protospace: Removing reference to Hobbit movie - the fire-burned cheek of Thranduil suggests an encounter with fire-drakes, not cold-drakes

{{people infobox
| name=Cold-drakes
| image=[[File:Kevin Ward - Cold-drake.jpg|250px]]
| caption=Kevin Ward - ''True Cold-drake''
| pronun=
| othernames=
| origin=Bred by [[Morgoth]] in [[Angband]]
| location=[[Angband]], [[Northern Waste]], [[Withered Heath]], [[Grey Mountains]]
| affiliation=[[Morgoth]]
| rivalry=[[Dwarves of the Grey Mountains]]
| language=
| people=
| members=
| lifespan="Long and slow"<ref>{{S|13}}</ref>
| distinctions=Could not breathe fire
| height=
| hair=
| skin=
| clothing=
| weapons=
}}
{{Quote|Now the least mighty - yet they were very great beside the [[Men]] of those days - are cold as in the nature of snakes and serpents, and of them a many having wings go with the uttermost noise and speed...|''[[Turambar and the Foalókë]]}}
'''Cold-drakes''' were dragons that could not breathe fire. [[Morgoth]] bred and used cold-drakes in the [[First Age]]. After the [[War of Wrath]], some cold-drakes were found in the [[Northern Waste|waste]] north of the the [[Grey Mountains]].

As the millennia passed, their numbers grew, until they became a serious threat in the later centuries of the [[Third Age]] to the [[Dwarves]] that mined the Grey Mountains.<ref name="AppA">{{App|Durin}}</ref> In {{TA|2589}}, [[Dáin I]], [[Kings of Durin's Folk|King of Durin's Folk]], and his second son [[Frór]] were slain at the gates of their [[Dáin's halls|halls]] by a Cold-drake.<ref name="AppA" /> The attacks of these fearsome creatures persuaded the Dwarves to migrate eastwards from the Grey Mountains, and it was soon afterward that their [[Dwarf realms|realms]] in the [[Iron Hills]] and at [[Lonely Mountain|Erebor]] were established.

==Portrayal in adaptations==
'''2018: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''
:Cold-drakes appear throughout the northern lands of [[Middle-earth]], particularly in the [[Ered Mithrin]] where they serve "Hrímil Frost-Heart", a dragon who consumed one of the dwarven [[Rings of Power]]. Hrímil's mightiest spawn, the Cold-drake "Vethúg Wintermind", was the one to slay King [[Dáin I]] and his son [[Frór]] in Thikil-gundu, "The Steel Keep" (otherwise known as [[Dáin's Halls]]). Unlike Tolkien's Cold-drakes, who simply could not breathe fire, the game's Cold-drakes often project icy breath.

{{references}}
[[Category:Dragons]]
[[Category:Servants of Melkor]]
[[de:Drachen#Kaltdrachen]]
[[fi:Hyykäärmeet]]

Radagast

2021-09-27T02:36:33Z

Protospace: /* History */ + info, source

{{maiar infobox
| name=Radagast
| image=[[File:Fabio Leone - Radagast the Brown.png|250px]]
| caption="Radagast the Brown" by [[:Category:Images by Fabio Leone|Fabio Leone]]
| pronun=
| othernames=[[Radagast#Aiwendil|Aiwendil]]<ref name="UTIstari">{{UT|Istari}}</ref> Radagast the Brown<ref name="FRCouncil">{{FR|Council}}</ref> Radagast the Bird-tamer<ref group="note" name="note1">[[Saruman]] gave him this name to mock him.</ref><ref name="FRCouncil"/> Radagast the Simple<ref group="note" name="note1"/><ref name="FRCouncil"/> Radagast the Fool<ref group="note" name="note1"/><ref name="FRCouncil"/>
| titles=
| position=
| location=[[Rhosgobel]]
| affiliation=[[Istari]] (Wizards) [[White Council]]
| language=
| birth=
| birthlocation=
| rule=
| death=
| deathlocation=
| age=
| notablefor=
| house=
| parentage=
| siblings=
| spouse=
| children=
| gender=Male
| height=
| hair=
| eyes=
| clothing=Earthen-brown robes<ref name="UTIstari"/>
| weapons=
| steed=
}}
{{Pronounce|Quenya - Aiwendil.mp3|Gilgamesh}}
<center>{{Quote|Radagast is, of course, a worthy wizard, a master of shapes and changes of hue; and he has much lore of herbs and beasts, and birds are especially his friends.|[[Gandalf]]<ref name="FRCouncil"/>}}</center>

'''Radagast the Brown''', also known as '''Aiwendil''', was one of the [[Wizards]] sent to [[Middle-earth]] to contest the will of [[Sauron]]. Originally a [[Maiar|Maia]] of [[Yavanna]], he had a strong affinity for animals. He dwelt, for a time, at [[Rhosgobel]] on the western eaves of [[Mirkwood]], near the [[Gladden Fields]] on the [[Anduin|Great River]].<ref name="UTIstari"/><ref name="FRCouncil"/>

==History==
[[File:Jef Murray - Mage of Rhosgobel.jpg|thumb|left|[[Jef Murray]] - ''Mage of Rhosgobel'']]
The [[Maia]] Aiwendil was an [[Ainu]] who existed before [[Time]], and one of the [[spirits]] who descended to [[Arda]] in order to serve the [[Valar]].<ref>{{S|Vala}}</ref> Aiwendil was a servant of the Valië [[Yavanna]], the Queen of earth.<ref name="UTIstari"/>

After the Valar discovered the primeval [[Elves]] at [[Cuiviénen]], Aiwendil was sent there with several other Maiar to guard the Elves from the forces of [[Melkor]]. He was known there by the name ''Hrávandil''. It is unclear how long he remained or if he accompanied the [[Eldar]] on the [[Great Journey]].<ref>{{NM|P1xiii}}, p. 95</ref>

After the defeat of [[Morgoth]], the Valar grew concerned about the growing power of [[Sauron]] in [[Middle-earth]]. Manwë summoned a council of the [[Valar]], and it was decided that they would send Maiar as emissaries to Middle-earth to aid the [[Free Peoples]]. [[Aulë]] chose [[Saruman|Curumo]] (later Saruman), [[Oromë]] chose [[Blue Wizards|Alatar]], and Manwë chose [[Gandalf|Olórin]] (later Gandalf). Yavanna subsequently begged Curumo to take Aiwendil with him, much to Curumo's displeasure.

In c. {{TA|1000}}, the Maiar arrived upon the shores of Middle-earth, having the form of old [[Men]], whom the peoples called [[Wizards]]. Curumo arrived first and alone, and Aiwendil arrived at the same time as Olórin. In Middle-earth he was known as Radagast, and he was robed in brown.<ref name="UTIstari"/>

===Travels in Middle-earth===
When the Wizards took their mission they roamed Middle-earth, but Radagast was never much of a traveller.<ref name="FRCouncil"/> There is not much to be told about his early journeys, but by the late [[Third Age]] he eventually settled down and dwelt, for a time at least, at [[Rhosgobel]] somewhere between the [[Carrock]] and the [[Old Forest Road]].<ref name="UTIstari"/> Situated on the western borders of [[Mirkwood]], it can be assumed that the Wizard held watch against the [[Shadow]] of [[Dol Guldur]] that slowly engulfed the forest. It is likely that he became acquainted with the inhabitants of that region. Close to animals and birds, he was friends with the [[eagles|great eagles]].<ref name="FRCouncil"/> Although the neighboring [[Beorn]] was unsociable, he used to see him from time to time, and he considered Radagast "not bad" for a Wizard.<ref name="HQueer">{{H|Queer}}</ref>

In {{TA|2851}} the [[White Council]] met once more and, after that, Saruman began to search the [[Gladden Fields]] for [[the One Ring]].<ref name="AppB2">{{App|B2}}</ref> Radagast decided to aid his search with birds and beasts who acted as spies hoping that Saruman's actions would help watch and hinder Sauron. Radagast did this in good faith, knowing nothing of Saruman's real ambitions to keep the Ring for himself.<ref name="SRings">{{S|Rings}}</ref>

[[File:Angelo Montanini - Radagast.jpg|thumb|[[Angelo Montanini]] - ''Radagast'']]By the time of the [[War of the Ring]] Radagast did not dwell any more in Rhosgobel. In summer {{TA|3018}} Saruman told Radagast that he was willing to help Gandalf, and sent the Brown Wizard to seek him out at once. Radagast did not know much of [[Eriador]] but sought for [[the Shire]], knowing that he would find Gandalf nearby.<ref name="FRCouncil"/>

Indeed, on [[Mid-year's Day|Midsummer's Day]], Radagast was sitting on the side of the [[Greenway]] with his horse near [[Bree]] when Gandalf found him on his way to the village. Radagast warned Gandalf that the [[Nazgûl]] were abroad, disguised as riders in black, and that they were seeking news of [[the Shire]]. He also gave him Saruman's invitation and agreed to help Gandalf by getting beasts and birds to send news to [[Orthanc]]. With that he rode away back towards Mirkwood.<ref name="FRCouncil"/>

By sending Gandalf to Orthanc, Radagast unwittingly had him captured. Saruman's message proved to be a trap for Gandalf who was imprisoned in Orthanc, but still he did not believe that Radagast was also a part of Saruman's plans. Indeed, it was thanks to Radagast that Gandalf was able to escape from the pinnacle of Orthanc upon the wings of [[Gwaihir]].<ref name="FRCouncil"/>

Radagast's actions during and after the rest of the War are not recorded. After the [[Council of Elrond]], many scouts were sent out from [[Rivendell]] to many different locations. Some passed over the [[Misty Mountains]] and eventually came to [[Rhosgobel]], but they found that Radagast was not there.<ref name="FRSouth">{{FR|South}}</ref>

==Characteristics==
{{Blockquote|Radagast is, of course, a worthy wizard, a master of shapes and changes of hue; and he has much lore of herbs and beasts, and birds are especially his friends.|[[Gandalf]]<ref name="FRCouncil"/>}}
Little is known about Radagast apart from certain defining characteristics. Saruman was the chief of the Order of Wizards and Gandalf came next in the order; Radagast meanwhile held much less power and wisdom.<ref name="UTIstari"/>

As one of the [[Maiar]] of [[Yavanna]], Radagast had a great interest in the [[kelvar]] and [[olvar]] of [[Middle-earth]] and was a friend to beasts and birds.<ref name="UTIstari"/><ref name="FRCouncil"/>
Gandalf, however, held greater knowledge of birds and beasts than Radagast, as well as greater respect received from them.<ref name="RC.245">[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], [[Wayne G. Hammond]] and [[Christina Scull]] (eds), ''[[The Lord of the Rings: A Reader's Companion]]'', p. 245</ref>

Radagast displayed some qualities of innocence and naivety, making him an ideal accomplice of Saruman's plans, seen in providing his services to help the White examine the Gladden Fields.<ref name="SRings"/> Saruman in turn considered him simple and foolish.<ref name="FRCouncil"/>

==Etymology==
===Radagast===
In a manuscript written by [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] in [[1954]], the name ''Radagast'' is said to mean "tender of beasts" in [[Adûnaic]], the language of the [[Númenóreans]].<ref name="UTIstari"/> However, in a later note Tolkien said that the name is in the language of the [[Men]] of the [[Vales of Anduin]], and that its meaning is not interpretable.<ref>{{UT|Istari}}, note 4</ref>

As stated by [[Wayne G. Hammond|Hammond]] and [[Christina Scull|Scull]], several theories have appeared concerning the inspiration of the name ''Radagast''.<ref name=RC>{{HM|RC}}, pp. 240-1</ref> One such theory has been proposed by [[Douglas A. Anderson]], who notes the name [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radegast_%28god%29 ''Redigast''] in Slavic mythology.<ref>{{HM|AH}}, p. 167</ref> [[John D. Rateliff]] suggests another source of inspiration in the [[Gothic]] chieftain ''[[Wikipedia:Radagaisus|Radagaisus]]'', whose name (as noted by [[David Salo]]) is rendered ''Rhadagast'' in some works from the 18th and 19th century (e.g., ''King Alfred's Anglo-Saxon Version of Boethius' De Consolatione Philosophiae'', translated by J.S. Cardale in 1829).<ref>{{HM|HHO}}, pp. 278-8, 291</ref>

The similarity to [[Old English]] ''rudugást'' meaning "red-brown spirit" has also been noted by fans.<ref>{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.glyphweb.com/arda/r/radagast.html‎|articlename=Radagast|dated=|website=EoA|accessed=}}</ref>

There is also a possibility that the old norse word ráðgast [to consult] could be part of the explanation.

===Aiwendil===
The name ''Aiwendil'' (pron. {{IPA|[aɪˈwendil]}}) is [[Quenya]] for "lover of birds".<ref name="UTIndex">{{UT|Index}}</ref> It is obviously derived from ''[[aiwe]]'' ("(small) bird") and ''ndil'' ("devoted to").<ref name=RC/><ref>{{LR|Etymologies}}, pp. 348, 378 (entries [[AIWĒ-]] and NIL-, NDIL-)</ref>

==Other names==
It appears that in [[Valinor]] Radagast was known as "Aiwendil".<ref name="UTIstari"/>

As one of the [[wizards]] sent to [[Middle-earth]], he was known as "Radagast [[the Brown]]". [[Saruman]], when talking to [[Gandalf]], mocked Radagast by calling him "Radagast the [[Bird-tamer]]", "Radagast [[the Simple]]", and "Radagast [[the Fool]]".<ref name="FRCouncil"/>

==Other versions of the legendarium==
From the first drafts of ''The Hobbit'', [[Gandalf|Bladorthin]] identifies Radagast as a fellow wizard and as his 'cousin'. [[John D. Rateliff]] notes that, at this stage in the development of [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien's]] [[legendarium]] there was no reason why a wizard could not have a cousin. Rateliff also suggests that it is likely that Tolkien considered explaining Gandalf's absence (following the departure of Thorin and Company from Beorn's house) by saying that he went to visit Radagast (who lived close by) to plan the attack on the [[Sauron|Necromancer]].<ref name="HHMedwed">{{HH|Medwed}}, "(vi) Radagast"</ref>

Early in the process of writing ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'', it is clear that [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] envisaged some role for Radagast in the tale.<ref>{{RS|New}}, p. 379;{{RS|Elrond}}, p. 397</ref> He eventually decided that he would use Radagast as the means of getting Gandalf to Isengard.<ref name="TIC1.130-140">{{TI|C1}}, pp. 130-140</ref>

Initially Gandalf describes Radagast as his 'cousin',<ref>{{TI|C1}}, p. 131</ref> as he did in ''[[The Hobbit]]'',<ref name="HQueer"/> but in a subsequent draft he becomes his 'kinsman'.<ref>{{TI|C2}}, p. 149</ref> In the final version Gandalf merely says that Radagast is 'one of my order'.<ref name="FRCouncil"/>

Tolkien initially called him "Radagast the Grey", but in pencil he changed this to "Brown" and subsequently Saruman refers to him as "Radagast the Brown".<ref name="TIC1.130-140"/>

When Tolkien finished writing the story up till Moria, he made notes on the future story development; therein he considered handing over Isengard to Radagast.<ref>{{TI|Story}}, p. 212</ref>

==Portrayal in adaptations==
{{Gallery
|title=Radagast in adaptations
|height=150
|width=250
|lines=2
|File:Radagast (Mithril LR3).png|Radagast as a [[Mithril Miniatures|Mithril Miniature]]
|File:War in Middle Earth - Radagast, Frodo and Sam.png|Radagast in ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien's War in Middle Earth]]''
|File:Decipher - Radagast.JPG|Radagast in ''[[The Lord of the Rings Trading Card Game]]''
|File:Radagast (LOTRSBG).jpg|Radagast in ''[[The Lord of the Rings Strategy Battle Game]]''
|File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Radagast.jpg|Radagast in ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]''
|File:Radagast in LOTR- War in the North-1.png|Radagast in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]]''
|File:The Hobbit - An Unexpected Journey - Radagast.jpg|Radagast in [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'' (film series)]]
|File:Radagast the Brown with Sebastian.png|"Radagast the Brown with Sebastian" in ''[[The Hobbit Strategy Battle Game]]''
}}
===Films===
'''2001: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''
:Radagast is entirely omitted. Without Radagast's involvement, [[Gandalf]] goes to [[Isengard]] of his own accord (because he wanted counsel from [[Saruman]]) and is able to escape from the pinnacle of [[Orthanc]] by speaking to a moth who sends for the help of the [[Eagles]].

'''2012: ''[[The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey]]'':'''
:Although Radagast is only briefly mentioned in ''The Hobbit'', Radagast features in ''The Hobbit'' films and is played by [[Sylvester McCoy]].<ref name="IMCasting">{{webcite|author=[[Ian McKellen]]|articleurl=http://www.mckellen.com/cinema/hobbit-movie/110510.htm|articlename=2 Elves and another wizard|dated=10-May-2011|website=[http://www.mckellen.com/ Ian McKellen's website]|accessed=23-Dec-2011}}</ref> He is highly eccentric and somewhat absent-minded, and also uses a sled pulled by several large [[rabbits]] (which he refers to as '[[Rhosgobel]] Rabbits') as his main means of transportation.

:After discovering that a shadow has fallen on [[Mirkwood|Greenwood the Great]] (having had to heal his hedgehog friend [[Sebastian]] because of its power), Radagast enters [[Dol Guldur]] and is attacked by the [[Witch-king]]. He finds that the fortress is occupied by a [[Sauron#Sauron's Return|Necromancer]] and travels to inform Gandalf. He finds [[Thorin and Company]] just west of [[Rivendell]] and hands Gandalf a [[Morgul-knife|morgul blade]]. He draws a pack of [[Wargs]] and their [[Orcs|Orc]] riders away on his rabbit-pulled sled so that Thorin and Company can flee in safety.

'''2013: ''[[The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug]]'':'''
:Radagast briefly appears, investigating the [[High Fells of Rhudaur|High Fells]] with Gandalf, and accompanying him to Dol Guldur. Gandalf then dispatches him to send news of what they've found to [[Galadriel]], while Gandalf enters the fortress ruins alone.

'''2014: ''[[The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies]]'':'''
:Radagast first appears when he comes in Dol Guldur during the [[Attack on Dol Guldur |attack]] by the [[White Council]] to take the weakened Gandalf to safety. After they escape, Gandalf requests a horse, takes Radagast's staff and also commands him to summon 'bird and beast' for the impending [[Battle of Five Armies|battle]]. He arrives with the Eagles late in the battle along with [[Beorn]]. They demolish the Orc forces and effectively help end the Battle of Five Armies.

===Radio series===
'''1981: ''[[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|BBC Radio's The Lord of the Ring]]'':'''
:[[Donald Gee]] provided the voice of Radagast. He is introduced much earlier than in the book because his meeting with Gandalf is given chronologically.

'''2001: [[Pán prsteňov (2001-2003 Slovak radio series)|''Pán prsteňov'' (2001-2003 Slovak radio series)]]:'''
:The voice of Radagast the Brown is provided by Vlado Černý. He appears briefly in a flashback scene, when Gandalf is recounting his meeting with Radagast, and his subsequent visit to Saruman, imprisonment and eventual escape from Orthanc.

===Games===
'''1987-: ''[[Mithril Miniatures]]'':'''
:Radagast has been issued in a couple of different versions: figure LR3 "Radagast the Brown" is seen with a cat and an owl;<ref>[http://www.mithril.ie/races/index_wizards.html Mithril wizards Miniatures] at [http://www.mithril.ie/ Mithril.ie] (accessed 8 October 2011)</ref> an older version of the figure portrays Radagast without beard and with a different bird.<ref>[http://www.twilighttangents.com/minis_lotr_mith.htm Lord of the Rings (Mithril)] at [http://www.twilighttangents.com/index.html TwilightTangents.com] (accessed 8 October 2011; cf. [http://www.twilighttangents.com/images/art/radagast01.jpg Radgast (image)])</ref> There is also a "Radagast Mounted" (MS539), where Radagast (again without beard) is portrayed mounted on a horse.<ref>[http://mithril.ie/Fellowship/ms539_radagast.html 32mm Fellowship Figures - MS539 Radagast Mounted] at [http://www.mithril.ie/ Mithril.ie] (accessed 8 October 2011)</ref>

'''1988: ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien's War in Middle Earth]]'':'''
:Radagast is a non-playable character in this game.

'''2001-: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Strategy Battle Game]]'':'''
:The hero figure [[:File:SBG - Radagast.jpeg|Radagast the Brown]], is a user of subtle magics, in contrast to the more overt kinds used by Gandalf and Saruman. However, he has some unique powers nonetheless.<ref>[http://www.games-workshop.com/gws/catalog/productDetail.jsp?prodId=prod1060255 Radagast the Brown] at [http://www.games-workshop.com/gws/home.jsp Games-Workshop-com] (accessed 8 October 2011)</ref>

'''2011-2010: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Trading Card Game]]'':'''
:A Decipher card was made by [[Weta Workshop|Weta]], with Weta's John Harding posing as Radagast.<ref>{{webcite|author=Kathy McCracken|articleurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20080906171452/http://www.decipher.com/content/2004/07/072204lotrwetacasting.html|articlename=The Making of the Weta "Book Cards": Casting and Costuming|dated=22-July-2004|website=[http://archive.org/ Internet Archive: Wayback Machine]|accessed=30-June-2012}}</ref>

'''2007-: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''
:In the distant past Radagast, "Master of Shapes", had taught the ancestors of the [[Beornings]] the art of skin-changing. During his stay in [[Rhosgobel]], Radagast had come across [[Gollum]] who was stealing and eating the babies of the [[Woodmen]] and banished him from the [[Vales of Anduin]], causing Gollum to crawl inside the caverns of the [[Misty Mountains]]. In early {{TA|3018}}, Radagast, on his way to see [[Saruman]], visits [[Grimbeorn]] and bids him to send one of his children with a message for [[Aragorn]] in [[Bree-land]].

:In the present, Radagast is first found in Ost Guruth, a small settlement of men in the [[Lone-lands]] north of the [[Great Road]]. He is friendly to the local people, the [[Eglain]], and helps them to combat the rise of evil in the swamps of Agamaur.<ref>[http://lorebook.lotro.com/wiki/NPC:Radagast_the_Brown NPC: Radagast the Brown] at [http://my.lotro.com/home/ My.Lotro.com] (accessed 8 October 2011)</ref> After the [[War of the Ring]], he tasks the player with ways of helping the living creatures around them. Radagast eventually settles back in Rhosgobel now that evil thatis departing the forest.

'''2011: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]]'':'''
:The characters [[Eradan]], [[Farin]] and [[Andriel]] travel to Mirkwood in search of Radagast and arrive just in time to rescue him from the Spider Queen, Saenathra. He thanks them for the rescue and provides them with information about the Dragon Urgost.<ref>[http://www.warinthenorth.com/index.php/the-game/allies Allies] at [http://www.warinthenorth.com/ WarintheNorth.com] (accessed 8 October 2011)</ref>

'''2012-: ''[[The Hobbit Strategy Battle Game]]'':'''
:Radagast, based on [[Peter Jackson]]'s [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'']], is a hero figurine in two different versions: the standard model "Radagast the Brown with [[Sebastian]]",<ref>{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.games-workshop.com/gws/catalog/productDetail.jsp?catId=cat970003a&prodId=prod1870030a|articlename=Radagast the Brown with Sebastian|dated=|website=[http://www.games-workshop.com/ Games-Workshop.com]|accessed=30 January 2013}}</ref> and a limited model sold with the box ''The Hobbit: Escape from Goblin Town''.<ref>{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.games-workshop.com/gws/catalog/productDetail.jsp?catId=cat970009a&prodId=prod1820008a|articlename=The Hobbit: Escape from Goblin Town - Limited Edition|dated=|website=[http://www.games-workshop.com/ Games-Workshop.com]|accessed=30 January 2013}}</ref>

==See also==
*[[:Category:Images of Radagast|Images of Radagast]]
*"[[Radagast/Fail|Did Radagast fail?]]"

==External links==
*[http://middle-earth.xenite.org/2014/06/30/what-happened-to-radagast-the-brown-after-the-war-of-the-ring/ What Happened to Radagast the Brown after the War of the Ring?] by [[Michael Martinez]]

{{references|n}}

{{Ainur}}
{{hobbitfilms}}
[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]
[[Category:Characters in The Silmarillion]]
[[Category:Featured Articles]]
[[Category:Maiar]]
[[Category:Names]]
[[Category:Third Age characters]]
[[Category:Wizards]]

[[de:Radagast]]
[[fr:encyclo/personnages/ainur/maiar/istari/radagast]]
[[fi:Radagast]]

Saruman

2021-09-26T20:30:36Z

Protospace: /* War of the Ring */ corrections: not clear that disembodied Maiar are normally "summoned to Mandos" like the spirits of Elves and Men; Sauron had not been Saruman's master for quite some time

{{sources}}
{{maiar infobox
| name=Saruman
| image=[[File:John Howe - Saruman.jpg|250px]]
| caption="Saruman" by [[John Howe]]
| pronun=
| othernames=Curumo, Curunír, [[the White]], Ring-maker, Of many colours, [[Sharkey]]
| titles=
| position=Head of the [[White Council]]
| location=[[Orthanc]]
| affiliation=[[Aulë]] [[Istari]] (Wizards) [[White Council]] [[Sauron]]
| language=
| birth=
| birthlocation=
| rule=
| death=[[3 November]] {{TA|3019}}
| deathlocation=[[Hobbiton]]
| age=
| notablefor=
| house=
| parentage=
| siblings=
| spouse=
| children=
| gender=Male
| height=Tall
| hair=White with strands of black<ref name="Voice">{{TT|Voice}}</ref>
| eyes=
| clothing=White robes, shimmering with many colours
| weapons=Staff Knife
| steed=
}}
{{pronounce|Quenya - Curumo.mp3|Gilgamesh}}
{{quote|[Saruman] is great among the Wise. He is the chief of my order and the head of the Council. His knowledge is deep, but his pride has grown with it, and he takes ill any meddling. The lore of the Elven-rings, great and small, is his province. He has long studied it, seeking the lost secrets of their making (....)|[[Gandalf]], ''[[The Shadow of the Past]]''}}
'''Saruman the White''' ([[Third Age]] c. 1000 – 3019, existed in [[Middle-earth]] for 2019 years) was the first of the order of [[Wizards]] (or ''Istari'') who came to Middle-earth as Emissaries of the [[Valar]] in the [[Third Age]]. He was the leader of the [[White Council]]. In [[Sindarin]] his name was '''Curunír''', which meant "Man of Skill".

==History==
===Early history===
As a [[Maia]], Saruman was created by [[Ilúvatar]] before the [[Music of the Ainur]].<ref name="Ainu">{{S|Ainu}}</ref> In his early days in [[Valinor]], he went by the name ''[[Curumo]]''.<ref>{{UT|Istari}}, note 6</ref> Like [[Sauron]], he was a powerful Maia of [[Aulë]].<ref>{{S|Vala}}</ref>

After the Valar discovered the primeval [[Elves]] at [[Cuiviénen]], Curumo was sent with several other Maiar to guard the Elves from the forces of [[Melkor]]. The Elves called him ''[[Tarindor]]''. It is unclear how long he remained or if he accompanied the [[Eldar]] on the [[Great Journey]].<ref name=Cuv>{{NM|P1xiii}}, p. 95</ref>

===Return to Middle-earth===
After the defeat of Morgoth, the Valar grew concerned about the rising power of Sauron in Middle-earth. In [[Valinor]], a council was called by [[Manwë]], where it was decided to send Maiar as emissaries to Middle-earth to help the [[Free Peoples]] challenge Sauron. The council likely met in the middle of the Second Age, shortly after the creation of the [[Rings of Power]]. The council determined that these emissaries (who became known as the [[Istari]] or Wizards) should be "mighty, peers of Sauron, yet [they should] forgo might, and clothe themselves in flesh so as to treat on equality and win the trust of Elves and Men."<ref name=Istari>{{UT|Istari}}</ref>{{rp|393}} Curumo, who was sent to the council by Aulë, volunteered to travel to Middle-earth as an emissary; he was appointed the first Istar and became the chief of their Order.<ref name=Istari />{{rp|389, 394}}

Even before arriving in Middle-earth, Curumo begrudged his peers among the Istari. ''[[Gandalf|Olórin]]'' (later Gandalf), who did not wish to travel to Middle-earth, was commanded by Manwë to go as the third Istar. Saruman's jealousy of Gandalf began here, when [[Varda]] said of Gandalf that he was "not the third". Saruman was charged to take [[Aiwendil]] (later Radagast) with him to please [[Yavanna]], which he did not wish to do, and this led to his contempt for the latter Wizard.<ref name=Istari />{{rp|393}}

In Middle-earth, Curomo became known in [[Sindarin]] as ''[[Curunír]]'' and in [[Westron]] by his most common name, ''Saruman''. Like the other Wizards, his [[fana]] took the appearance of an old man. He had raven hair and was robed in white.<ref name=Istari />{{rp|393}}

Saruman and others of the Istari arrived in Middle-earth on a ship at [[Mithlond]] (the [[Grey Havens]]) in [[Lindon]] around the year 1000 of the [[Third Age]].<ref name=Istari /> At the time of their arrival, their origin, nature, purpose, and true names were a secret to nearly everyone in Middle-earth. Having witnessed their arrival, [[Círdan]] alone knew the truth of their identity and origin. He chose to give [[Narya]], the Red Ring, to Gandalf to aid him in his mission.<ref name="AppTA"/> Círdan told only [[Galadriel]] and [[Elrond]] of the true origins of the Istari.<ref name="SV"/> After a time, Saruman learned of Círdan's gift and begrudged it; this heightened the hidden ill-will that he bore towards Gandalf.<ref name=Istari/>

Shortly after arriving, Saruman travelled into the [[East]] of Middle-earth, as did the two [[Blue Wizards]]. After one and a half millennia he returned to the West, just as Sauron's power was growing again in [[Dol Guldur]].

===Chief of the White Council===
[[File:Angus McBride - Saruman.gif|thumb|[[Angus McBride]] - ''Saruman'']]
When the [[White Council]] was formed around {{TA|2463}}<ref name="AppTA"/>, Saruman was appointed its leader. Even then, he had begun to sense the resurgence of Sauron and to envy and desire his power, and especially his [[The One Ring|One Ring]]. Coincidentally, in that same year the One Ring was found by the creature [[Gollum]]<ref name="AppTA"/>, drawing the [[Dark Lord]] closer to the conflict that would eventually prove Saruman's undoing.

During this period, Saurman spent years in [[Minas Tirith]] examining its archives. It is possible that there he surmised that a [[Palantíri|''palantír'']] would still be located in [[Orthanc]], the tower of [[Isengard]].<ref>{{UT|Palantiri}}</ref> He offered to make Isengard his home and to command the defences of the West. This was welcomed by King [[Fréaláf]] of [[Rohan]] and [[Ruling Steward|Steward]] [[Beren (Steward of Gondor)|Beren]] of [[Gondor]] alike. In {{TA|2759}}, Saruman was given the [[Key of Orthanc]] in the ring of [[Isengard]] his abode, hoping that he would prove an important ally.<ref name="SV">{{S|V}}</ref><Ref name=stew>{{App|Stewards}}</ref> There he became important in the defence of the free lands of the West. In Orthanc he came upon the [[Orthanc-stone]], one of the seven seeing stones, but kept it secret and hidden, particularly from the White Council. He would later betray the Council by concealing his use of it.

In {{TA|2851}}, the White Council met and Gandalf revealed that the evil presence in Dol Guldur was indeed Sauron and that he had returned, and urged an attack there. Saruman however believed that Sauron would be useful in his quest: allowing Sauron to build up his strength, the One Ring would reveal itself, and Saruman hoped to have sufficient strength to seize it first himself until that event. With this strategy in mind, Saruman overruled Gandalf. It soon became clear that Saruman desired to possess [[the One Ring]] himself.<ref name="AppTA">{{App|TA}}</ref>

He soon found that Sauron had more knowledge of the possible location of the One Ring than he expected, and in {{TA|2941}} he finally consented to an [[Attack on Dol Guldur]] against Sauron at which point Sauron retreated to [[Mordor]].
[[File:Angus McBride - Dol Guldur.jpg|thumb|left|Angus McBride - ''Dol Guldur'']]
In {{TA|2953}}, the [[Wise]] gathered once more to debate about the [[Rings of Power]]. Saruman quieted the Council claiming to have the knowledge that the One Ring was lost forever in the [[Belegaer]]. Following their final meeting (and the death of [[Turgon (Steward of Gondor)|Steward Turgon]]), Saruman took Isengard for his own and fortified it.<Ref name=stew/> Saruman, jealous and afraid of Gandalf, set spies to watch all his movements; thus he discovered the existence of the [[Shire]] and noted Gandalf's interest in it, and started sending agents in [[Bree]] and the [[Southfarthing]].<ref name="AppTA"/> As [[Lord of Isengard]], Saruman began to bring trouble to Rohan by aiding its enemies.<ref name="AppMark">{{App|Mark}}</ref> But the Wise were already suspicious about him; [[Aragorn]] tried to advice Steward [[Ecthelion II]] to not trust Saruman for his help against [[Sauron]].<Ref name=stew/>

Sauron had declared himself openly in Mordor; he established contact with Saruman through the [[Ithil-stone]] his minions had captured from [[Minas Ithil]]. Through his jealousy towards Gandalf and his ever-growing pride and arrogance, and through the use of the ''palantír'' was dominated by Sauron, becoming a servant of his will. Using either the knowledge of his new master or lore of lost [[Eregion]], Saruman crafted his own lesser ring and sought to emulate Sauron. His corruption was complete around {{TA|3000}}.<ref name="AppTA"/> Saruman intended to seize the One Ring for himself, or at the very least stand as a vassal of the victorious Sauron.

===War of the Ring===
At about this time, in an attempt to control [[Rohan]], Saruman bought the allegiance of King [[Théoden]]'s chief advisor, [[Gríma]], who then counselled the ailing king to do nothing about the steady resurgence of Sauron's armies. Saruman and Gríma's treachery would have crippled Rohan's military might and allowed Sauron lordship of the kingdom, had not [[Gandalf]] interfered a year later and revealed to Théoden his right-hand man's true designs, healing the old king and revitalising his political and military rule.

He had sent spies to negotiate the purchase of "[[pipe-weed|leaf]]" from [[the Shire]], in preparation for the war, and also learn of any [[Hobbits]] who had departed recently in hopes of finding out who possessed [[the One Ring]].<ref name="UT10">{{UT|10}}, "Concerning Gandalf, Saruman, and the Shire"</ref>

Saruman did not reveal his true intentions until Gandalf presented him with the discovery and location of the One Ring. On [[10 July]], {{TA|3018}}, Gandalf arrived at Isengard.<ref name="AppGreat">{{App|Great}}</ref> Saruman demanded that Gandalf submit to Sauron or fail. Saruman then stood forth as '''Saruman of Many Colours''', and when Gandalf refused to join him or tell him of the Ring, he held him captive in Isengard.
[[File:The Lord of the Rings - The Two Towers - Gríma and Saruman.jpg|thumb|left|Saruman commanding his forces from Orthanc]]
It must have been during Gandalf's captivity in Orthanc that Saruman began to amass a massive army of [[Orcs]], [[Dunlendings]], and [[Uruk-hai]], since Gandalf came to an as yet un-destroyed Isengard. From the pinnacle of the tower Gandalf could see that Saruman was gathering hordes of orcs and [[wolves]] in his pits and forges.<ref name="FRCouncil">{{FR|Council}}</ref> One can speculate that if matters had developed a little more slowly, his puppet Gríma would have gained full control over Rohan, and the [[Rohirrim]] would have been enslaved or destroyed.

Saruman's plans likely failed because he, like Sauron, was forced to reveal his hand early by Gandalf's subsequent escape, and therefore he had little time to perfect his plans. As Saruman considered himself "unfallen", he honestly believed he had a chance of converting Gandalf to their side, and felt honestly betrayed by Gandalf when he was refused.

Gandalf later escaped, and so Saruman's treachery and service to Sauron became known to the rest of the White Council when Gandalf reported this during the subsequent [[Council of Elrond]].

Saruman soon also betrayed his master by lying to the [[Witch-king]] when he arrived at Isengard. Sauron had sent the [[Nazgûl]] searching for [[Bilbo Baggins|Baggins]], who had found the One Ring years before, and the Shire, his home. Saruman pretended to know nothing about the Shire. But the Lord of Minas Morgul and his company did not have the strength to assault the Ring of Isengard. Saruman told them that he believed Gandalf knew the whereabouts of the Ring and the Riders departed.

In September of {{TA|3018}} the Nazgûl captured one of his [[the Shire|Shire]] [[Squint-eyed Southerner|spies]] who told the [[Witch-king]] everything, betraying Saruman, and exposing the wizard's double treachery. They also seized some maps and information about the Shire and [[Baggins]].<ref name="UT10" /> Caught now as a traitor to the Free Peoples and unfaithful ally to Mordor, Saruman put all efforts into obtaining [[the One Ring]] for himself.<ref name="UTHunt">{{UT|Hunt}}</ref>

The failure to capture the Ring at [[Emyn Muil]] further ruined Saruman's plans, as he was revealed as a traitor to Sauron as well.
[[File:Ted Nasmith - The Wrath of the Ents.jpg|thumb|[[Ted Nasmith]] - ''The Wrath of the Ents'']]
Finding himself in a precarious position, Saruman could only hope to acquire the Ring or reassure Sauron of his loyalties. Therefore he implemented an aggressive strategy of attacking [[Rohan]], endeavouring to kill the King's son [[Théodred]], sending spies to waylay [[Frodo Baggins]] on his flight from the Shire, and dispatching raiding parties on likely routes a company of the Ring might take to Gondor. Ironically, one of these parties captured [[Peregrin Took]] and [[Meriadoc Brandybuck]] and transported them to [[Fangorn Forest]] in time to mobilise the [[Ents]]. Gandalf also suspected Saruman had found (and destroyed) the remains of [[Isildur]], who had worn the Ring before it had been lost.

Saruman's Shire network failed to capture Frodo Baggins, Gandalf rallied Rohan to victory, [[Éomer]] stopped his brutal, but only partially successful raiding party, and control of Isengard was lost to the [[Ents]]. Aware he was utterly defeated, Saruman briefly considered repenting for his deeds, but at the last moment could not go through with it. Whether he had hope he could escape, whether he was too proud to surrender to Gandalf, whether he thought his master would pardon him, Saruman refused to leave the confines of his fortress. Saruman made a final attempt to woo Théoden and Gandalf to his cause but failed: his staff was broken and he was expelled from the Order of the Istari.

Left out of the final stages of the War of the Ring and unable to be of any use to Sauron, he eventually managed to convince his captors, the Ents, into letting him leave Isengard, as apparently the magic of his voice still remained.

[[File:Ted Nasmith - Saruman is Overtaken.jpg|thumb|[[Ted Nasmith]] - ''Saruman is Overtaken'']]On their way to northern [[Dunland]], on [[28 August]]<Ref name=chief>{{App|Chief}}</ref> they were confronted by Gandalf, [[Celeborn]], [[Galadriel]] and the Hobbits, but they passed as travelling beggars as Saruman kicked Gríma to move on, and he exclaimed how he hated his lord. Gandalf told Gríma that he was free to leave him but he did not reply. As Saruman was considered powerless, there was little concern for his escape.<ref name=Partings>{{RK|Partings}}</ref> On [[22 September]]<ref name=chief/> they entered to the Shire, which his ally [[Lotho Sackville-Baggins]] (undisturbed by events elsewhere) had brought under control. He established himself in [[Hobbiton]] and spent his final days as a small-time thug lord whom his [[ruffians]] called '''''Sharkey''''', imposing a terror regime to avenge himself upon the peaceful Halflings. But even this operation fell apart after Frodo and [[Samwise Gamgee]] returned; he was eventually betrayed and killed by his own agent Gríma on [[3 November]], {{TA|3019}}.

Saruman, who was a Maia, had lost his shape with his "death". As a discorporate spirit, he turned westward, but a wind came from the [[West]] and pushed him away. Apparently his spirit was left naked, powerless, and wandering in Middle-earth, not unlike Sauron after the One Ring was destroyed.

==Characteristics==
In appearance, Saruman was as an old man with black hair. At the end of the Third Age, his hair and beard had turned mostly white — he had only black hairs about his lips and ears. He was tall, his face was long, and his eyes were deep and dark. He would appear in a white cloak, a habit he later changed into a cloak that changed colours as he moved.

He was not actually a [[Men|Man]], or even an [[Elves|Elf]] (as Men often suspected), but a [[Maiar|Maia]] clothed in flesh — an [[Istari|Istar]] (see ''Origins'' above). As such, he was immortal and extremely powerful, yet had limits on how far these powers could be used. His two most salient powers were his knowledge and his voice. Saruman was, in a very real way, the junior brother of Sauron both having been Maia of Aulë, Valar of Smithcraft, in the very beginnings of time. The parallels between Sauron and Saruman in both character and actions are many.

=== Powers ===
Knowledge of the "deep arts" (or magic, such as it is in Middle-earth) was of particular interest to Saruman, especially when relating to power such as the [[Rings of Power]] and the far seeing ''[[palantíri]]''. He was also deeply learned in ancient lore regarding powerful kingdoms such as [[Númenor]], [[Gondor]], and [[Moria]].

His voice and speech were extremely convincing, more powerful than mere rhetoric. When he focused this power on a person or a group of people, he could sway their hearts, plant fears and sow lies as he pleased. According to the stature of the listener, this spell could last as long as the speech did, or it could take root in them and last forever. Saruman's voice was so powerful that he was able to convince the [[Witch-king]] that he knew nothing of the One-Ring or the Shire. His voice was not hypnotic, however, rather it was persuasive; and the real danger the voice posed to the listener was not them falling into a trance, but agreeing with it.

Aside from his voice, Saruman has other subtle abilities such as giving great speed and motivation to his orcs at a distance and setting his will against all those in his dominion that might oppose him. Aragorn takes note of this ability while tracking the party of orcs holding Merry and Pippin hostage. Saruman also seems to be able to move around totally unheard by others, as there are numerous examples of him using this ability. Several examples include his sneaking up on [[Aragorn]], [[Gimli]] and [[Legolas]]'s camp in [[The Riders of Rohan]], his wholly unheard entrance in [[The Voice of Saruman]] and his quiet but sudden appearance to the hobbits in [[The Scouring of the Shire]].

Other powers include knowledge of machinery and chemistry, probably separable from explicit magic (for instance, the "blasting fire" employed by his [[Uruk-hai]] army in the battle of [[Helm's Deep]], was some kind of chemical explosive). Machinery and engines characterised both his fortified [[Isengard]] and his altered [[the Shire|Shire]] arenas of influence. In this, he sought to emulate, or even surpass his master, [[Sauron]]. This inclination was constitutional in them both from the very beginning.

His science also extended to biological areas. He is believed to have crossbred Men and Orcs, creating a new race of Orcs unafraid of daylight, the dreaded Uruk-hai, a major improvement on Sauron's thralls who hated daylight. His mannish spies in [[Bree]] were said to have Orc blood, giving them heightened senses over ordinary men. He also employed scavenger birds in his service, although this might also be attributed to [[Radagast]] the Brown, ordering them to report to [[Orthanc]], Saruman's stronghold.

Being regarded as more powerful than [[Gandalf]] (at least before Gandalf's "rebirth"), it's fair to assume he would also wield explicit magic similar to Gandalf, such as artificial light, locking spells, creating fire, etc.

Saruman, walking on the same ruinous path as Sauron, attempted to forge for himself a Ring of Power, much like his master had. This he wore during the War of the Ring which he revealed when he called himself "Saruman the Ring-maker". He had great knowledge and lore of the magic rings created by Sauron and by the Elven-smiths, though at this time the full art of ring-making was lost and known only to his master and so Saruman's knowledge of the craft was incomplete. It is assumed that Saruman's Ring was the equivalent of one of the lesser rings in power and any details of this power is not mentioned. It is also assumed that it too lost its power, if it had any, when the One Ring was destroyed, since Saruman's craft of ring-making was still based on Sauron's. When Gandalf was given Narya, the Ring of Fire, Saruman learned of the gift and resented it. This may be another reason why Saruman desired to have a ring of his own.

===Personality===
Saruman resembled Gandalf not only in appearance, but originally also somewhat in deportment, but unlike Gandalf, Saruman was proud, even haughty. He saw himself as the most powerful of the Istari, expressing clear contempt for Radagast the Brown, patronising tolerance of The Wise and Elves, and sheer disdain for lesser men. Saruman was no fool (though he saw Radagast as one); he realised Gandalf's power, and eventually came to see him as an equal, and later as a superior, much to his distress. He became jealous of Gandalf, eventually convincing himself that Gandalf was scheming against him, which justified his own scheming against Gandalf and the rest of the White Council, and the people of Middle-earth as well. Saruman's ultimate agenda in the end was not very different at all from Sauron's.

Saruman likely was true to his mission in the beginning, and actually believed in working to stop the Darkness, but his pride and later arrogance (as well as his jealousy towards Gandalf and corruption by Sauron) turned him into a traitor to the cause he had once served. Saruman's betrayal was not sudden, but slowly grew over time as Sauron used Saruman's lust for power, admiration of strength and envy as tools of control, until at last Saruman had convinced himself that he could not have taken any other path and that it was too late now to repent. To the last Saruman only believed in his own counsel and the deceptive words of Sauron. This false beliefs kept him from taking his last chance at redemption, and because he must have realised this after Gandalf's truly generous terms he only became more bitter and filled with the rage of failure, blaming Gandalf more than anyone else for his downfall.

==Politics==

===Men===
Saruman "went mostly among men". He always sought power, and it lay in the hands of the kingdoms of Men.

No records speak of his earliest journeys into the east; after his return he became a servant of [[Gondor]], receiving the keys to Orthanc from Beren as its warden. When Gondor weakened, he claimed Orthanc for his own without any formal declaration (or objection from Gondor), yet remained nominally an ally of Gondor and of Rohan.

When he turned to treachery, Saruman employed men mainly from [[Dunland]], and agents from other lands, turning old grudges into fuel for new hatred. The Dunlendings were enticed with the old stories that they had once lived in [[Calenardhon]] before the ''Strawheads''. The Dunlendings became his soldiers and it also seems probable that he used some of them to create [[Half-orcs]].

Gríma Wormtongue played a vital role in Saruman's plans: with Saruman's counsel Gríma began to weaken the king, estranging him from his other counsellors and even his own kin, until Gríma had in effect become the leader of Rohan.

===Elves===
Saruman was once on good terms with the Elves, and was voted in as the leader of the White Council, a group of Elves and Istari united against Sauron.

Saruman knew that Gandalf had been given the third Elvish ring [[Narya]] by [[Círdan]] the Shipwright. This nurtured his jealousy of Gandalf and his resentment towards the Elves.

Saruman had little use for, or interest in, the Elves, who were declining and their lands were few and secretive; although they wielded marvellous powers and two Rings of Power, they were not useful nor accessible for Saruman's ambitions. Also, they succumbed less easily than other races to manipulation.

Even though Isengard lay very close to [[Lothlórien]], Saruman had very little or no contact with it. Saruman never trusted [[Galadriel]] and he accused her of scheming for Gandalf at his expense.<ref name=Partings/>

===Orcs===
Saruman drew his original strength of Orcs from tribes in the [[Misty Mountains]], and perhaps from Moria Orcs. He made use of [[Wargs|Warg]]-mounted Orcs for raids against Rohan.

He also bred [[Orcs of Isengard|Orcs]] in the pits of Isengard, eventually creating crossbreeds of Orcs and Men (probably [[Dunlendings]] or [[Bree-men]]). This programme apparently also involved feeding these greater Orcs Man-flesh as a treat.

His [[Uruk-hai]] legions displayed great discipline and fierce loyalty, in addition to the other improvements such as height, strength, endurance and resistance to sunlight. There also appears to have been middle stages between Men and the Uruk-hai, Men with varying degrees of Orkish appearance such as [[Half-orcs]] and [[Goblin-men]]. These were reported by Pippin and Merry to have been part of Saruman's regular army, but were not Uruk-hai, since the hobbits would have recognised these from their earlier capture.

Saruman's servants called him "[[Sharkey]]" both in Isengard and later in the Shire.

===Ents/Trees===
Saruman made contact with the Ents in [[Fangorn Forest]] shortly after he settled in [[Isengard]]. The oldest of the Ents, [[Treebeard]] received him and gave him free access to the forest.

Saruman also consulted with Treebeard, learning much old lore that the Ents would have remembered from ancient times. Saruman did not return this favour, but only listened.

The Ents saw Saruman's treachery early, and became very concerned, primarily with Saruman's Orcs felling trees on the edge of Fangorn for use in the furnaces of Isengard and sometimes for no reason at all.

The Ents also appear to have had a sense of order, how things should be, that Saruman encroached upon. The crossbreeding of Men and Orcs particularly alarmed them, out of proportion to other concerns enemies of Saruman might have had. Also alarming was the pure fact of his treachery — the Istari were supposed to have a special responsibility.

Saruman used the Ents and the Fangorn forest without concern for the consequences. He clearly misjudged the Ents' abilities and will to act. This might not have been as incautious as it seemed, since major contributing factors to the Ent's actions were advice and requests from Gandalf, and concern about the rising power of Sauron (and their wish to support the front-line troops of the war, Rohan and Gondor).

Saruman clearly had the ability to understand the minds of the Ents when he found it useful. He managed to talk Treebeard into setting him free from Orthanc by pushing just the right buttons — Ents dislike the concept of caging up any creature.

===Hobbits===
The race of [[Hobbits]] and their lands seemed too insignificant to interest Saruman: until he took notice of Gandalf's special concern for them. Studying Gandalf made him focus gradually more and more on the Hobbits and The Shire. For a period he actually travelled there in secret, mapping out the lands. Gandalf was aware of this, but at this point only amused.

He began smoking pipe-weed (a habit of the Hobbits that Gandalf had picked up), also in secret. His demand for tobacco opened up trading between The Shire and Isengard, and the power his money could wield there and the corruption it could cause began to fascinate him. Some of his agents went in secret, and some were known to Gandalf and the [[Rangers of the North|Rangers]].

His anger towards the Hobbits may possibly stem from the attention Gandalf showed them. It certainly strengthened immensely when he discovered that the Hobbits had "conspired" with Gandalf to keep [[the One Ring]] from him.

This, and the sudden urgency caused by the [[Nazgûl|Ringwraiths]]' hunt for the Ring-bearer from The Shire to Rivendell, made him increase his activity in the area, leading to a build-up of power that would lead to virtual conquest of The Shire.

He might also later have blamed the ruin of Isengard by the Ents on [[Peregrin Took]] and [[Meriadoc Brandybuck]], who clearly catalysed events.

This all came together when Saruman escaped from the Ents and retired to The Shire and his thug regime in place there. It appears he immediately switched the focus of this operation to wanton destruction: pollution, murder, fire, chopping down trees for no reason, a last blow against Hobbits and Gandalf.

At his final utter defeat by [[Battle of Bywater|a Hobbit uprising]], his life was spared even when he tried to assassinate [[Frodo Baggins]]. At this moment he actually conceded a short-lived respect to Frodo.

===Valar/Maiar/Wizards===
Saruman was supposedly eager to go to Middle-earth, against Manwë's counsel. After his 'death' he was apparently barred from returning to Valinor, and therefore was denied reincarnation and condemned to waft away and disappear like so much smoke. In his corrupt state, Saruman sought power and the imposing of order in Middle-earth by any means necessary, even if it meant betraying the mission he was entrusted with.

Sauron, in origin a Maia of Aulë like Saruman, awed and frightened him. During the height of his arrogance Saruman thought he could rival Sauron, but in the end he found himself meddling with a spirit of far greater power and knowledge than himself. Caught peering into the ''palantír'' he was seduced by Sauron to his allegiance, no longer opposing (and perhaps even desiring) his victory. Saruman sought to become a lieutenant almost-equal to his master and receive his favor in triumph, yet he was also a duplicitous servant by actively coveting the One Ring. After the failed attempt through the ambush at Amon Hen, Saruman understood the only paths ahead of him were to either show his master faith by crippling Rohan, hoping to at the very least be spared, or come to ruin and torment.

Saruman grudgingly brought with him Radagast as a companion from Valinor, at the request of [[Yavanna]], yet still managed to arrive alone, and first. Shortly after, he went into the East with the two [[Blue Wizards]], and later returned alone. There he may have wrought many great works to diminish the influence of the Enemy or searched for lore to help him in his schemes.

Radagast, even though Saruman scorned him, served both Gandalf and Saruman very usefully (and wholly unintentionally, as he admitted "he had just the wit to play the part I set him", that of persuading Gandalf to come to Isengard). Radagast also sent birds to Saruman and Gandalf to report the different happenings in Middle-earth.

Saruman had always been jealous of Gandalf, and knew that he was keeping secrets from him, such as his suspicion about [[The One Ring|Bilbo's Ring]] and [[Narya]], secret. Gandalf also suspected Saruman of plotting to gain the One Ring for himself, and hinted at this at a meeting of the White Council. Gandalf blew nine small smoke rings and one great one that wavered a bit, seeming almost palpable, and yet blew away, symbolising (almost prophetic of) Saruman's failure in achieving the One. In general, Saruman must have viewed Gandalf as his only peer, and as such to be feared and treated with (although not necessarily shown) respect. He always kept a watchful eye open for Gandalf's doings, and actually picked up the habit of smoking pipe-weed by sending out spies tailing Gandalf to the Shire. After revealing his fealty to Mordor and his desire for the Ring, Saruman offered Gandalf the chance to join with Sauron, or perhaps get the One for themselves. Ultimately, certain he Gandalf could be forced to tell of the Ring's whereabouts or that he could help Sauron win, he came to underestimate Gandalf and think little of his interventions.

Nevertheless, Saruman exercised more power than Gandalf, even with the ring Narya, as became clear when he placed Gandalf under arrest at the pinnacle of Orthanc. The text does not make it clear whether Saruman lost power or whether Gandalf gained power, but when Gandalf returned as "Gandalf [[the White]]", he could summon Saruman at his will, forcibly keep him in his presence, and finally break Saruman's staff (with whatever implications that might have had for Saruman's powers).

Despite his apparent disdain for the Grey Pilgrim, Saruman several times came very close to setting aside his pride and to asking Gandalf for pity and help. The closest call came when the [[Nazgûl|Ringwraiths]] (on their way to the Shire) arrived at Isengard while Gandalf still remained in captivity there. Saruman, realising he might have already lost Sauron's trust, actually went to seek Gandalf's pardon, only to find his erstwhile captive missing from the top of Orthanc.

===Animals===
Saruman had control over many birds, probably having been taught to tame them by Radagast. Crebain spied for him and brought him news. In addition, the Orcs Saruman took in his armies had amongst them wild [[wolves]] and even [[Wargs]], a sort of demonic cousin of the former.

==Etymology==
''Saruman'' is a [[Mannish]] translation of [[Quenya]] ''[[Curumo]]'', his original name in [[Valinor]] as a Maia; and [[Sindarin]] ''[[Curunír]]'' which is supposedly the same name (with the ending ''[[dîr|-ndîr]]'' "man"). All names mean "Skilled Man" or "Cunning One" (root ''[[curu]]'' "skill").<ref name=RC81>{{HM|RC}}, p. 81</ref><ref>{{webcite|author=[[Helge Fauskanger]]|articleurl=http://folk.uib.no/hnohf/quen-eng.htm|articlename=Quettaparma Quenyallo|website=Arda}}</ref><ref>{{webcite|author=[[Didier Willis]], ed.|articleurl=http://www.jrrvf.com/hisweloke/sindar/online/sindar/dict-sd-en.html|articlename=Hiswelókë's Sindarin dictionary|website=[http://www.jrrvf.com/hisweloke/ Hiswelókë]}}</ref>

''Saruman'' is derived from [[Old English]]: the root word ''searu'' means "device, design, contrivance, art" and the whole name means "man of skill".<ref name=RC81/>

His name in [[Sindarin]] was ''Curunír 'Lân''.<ref name=Istari/>

==Other versions of the legendarium==
In the earlier versions of ''The Lord of the Rings'', Saruman was sketched merely as Sauron's fawning servant, while the army he musters is not in rivalry of Mordor's but from the beginning in his new master's employ. In other drafts, the treacherous wizard hands Gandalf over to the evil [[Giants|Giant]] Treebeard or betrays him to the Black Riders. <ref>{{TI|VII}}</ref>

Saruman's older names in these drafts were Sarumond and Saramund,<ref name=rc>{{HM|RC}}, p. xxiii</ref> containing the english term ''mund'' "hand".

==Inspiration==
Saruman was invented and introduced in the story in order to explain Gandalf's absence in the first part of ''The Lord of the Rings'', replacing Treebeard as the wizard's captor. <ref name=rc/>

As a scholar, Tolkien would also have been well aware of the name of a similarly-named historic 'head of his order', Jaruman.

==Portrayal in adaptations==
{{Gallery
|title=Saruman in adaptations
|height=150
|width=250
|File:The Lord of the Rings (1978 film) - Saruman.jpg|Saruman in [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]
|lines=2
|File:The Lord of the Rings (film series) - Saruman using Palantír.jpg|[[Christopher Lee]] as Saruman in [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (film series)]]
|File:LOTRO-Rise of Isengard-Saruman-1.png|Saruman in ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]''
|File:Lego - Saruman minifigure.jpg|Saruman in [[Lego]] form
}}

===Films===
'''1978: [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]:'''
:[[Fraser Kerr]] provided the voice of Saruman. From early on in the production, it was decided that "Saruman" and "Sauron" sounded too much alike, and might confuse viewers. On concept art, Saruman is called "Ruman",<ref>[http://www.ralphbakshi.com/gallery/displayimage.php?album=5&pos=69 1978 - The Lord of the Rings Gallery] at [http://www.ralphbakshi.com Ralphbakshi.com] (accessed 26 March 2011)</ref> but prior to recording, this was changed to "Aruman". However, during recording, it was again changed, to "Saruman". Because of this late change, several instances of "Aruman" remain in the finished film.

'''2001-03: [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (film series)]]:'''
:Saruman was played by [[Christopher Lee]]. Saruman's depiction in the series is more akin to the early drafts, in that he is a more willing and trustworthy servant of Sauron (though he still instructs [[Lurtz]] to bring him the hobbits carrying "something of great value"). The films did not include the [[Scouring of the Shire]], so Saruman's last appearance was in Isengard, during his encounter with Gandalf and Théoden. In the [[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (extended edition)|extended edition of ''The Return of the King'']], Gríma stabs Saruman in the back, causing him to fall on a spiked wheel below the tower of Orthanc.

'''2012-14: [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'' (film series)]]:'''
:[[Christopher Lee]] reprised his role as Saruman, although the character does not appear in the book.<ref name="TelegraphCasting">{{webcite|articleurl=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/film/film-news/8311016/Christopher-Lee-will-star-in-the-Hobbit-prequel.html|articlename=Christopher Lee will star in the Hobbit prequel|dated=08-Feb-2011|website=[http://www.telegraph.co.uk/ The Telegraph]|accessed=21-Dec-2011}}</ref> He appears as part of the [[White Council]] alongside [[Gandalf]], [[Galadriel]] and [[Elrond]]. He is sceptical about the appearance of a [[Sauron#Sauron's Return|Necromancer]] in [[Dol Guldur]]. However, when he participates in the [[attack on Dol Guldur]], he sees for himself that Sauron has indeed returned. After the skirmish, he appears shaken by the display of Sauron's power, but claims he will take it upon himself to keep an eye on the Dark Lord and pretends to care for Lady Galadriel's weakened state.

===Television===
'''1993: [[Hobitit|''Hobitit'']]:'''
:Saruman was played by actor Mikko Kivinen. He appears only in episode "Vanha metsä" ("Old Forest").

===Radio series===
'''1955: [[The Lord of the Rings (1955 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1955 radio series)]]:'''
:The voice of Saruman is provided by [[Robert Farquharson]].

'''1979: [[The Lord of the Rings (1979 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1979 radio series)]]:'''
:The voice of Saruman is provided by [[James Arrington]].

'''1981: [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1981 radio series)]]:'''
:[[Peter Howell]] played Saruman. Because the series follows a chronological timeline rather than the flashbacks of the books, Saruman's betrayal is brought out much sooner than in the book. Excerpts from [[The Hunt for the Ring]] are dramatised to flesh out Gandalf's escape from Isengard, and the Nazgul's pursuit. In the final episode Saruman's death at the hands of Wormtongue at Bag End is included.

'''1992: [[Der Herr der Ringe (1992 German radio series)|''Der Herr der Ringe'' (1992 German radio series)]]:'''
:Saruman is played by Manfred Steffen.

'''2001-2003: [[Pán prsteňov (2001-2003 Slovak radio series)|''Pán prsteňov'' (2001-2003 Slovak radio series)]]:'''
:The voice of Saruman is provided by Andrej Hryc. Saruman appears in all three series (seasons) of this adaptation, with his most prominent appearances in the episodes covering ''The Two Towers''.

===Games===
'''2003: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King'' (video game)]]:'''
:Though Christopher Lee provided the voice of Saruman for many scenes, the only visual appearance of the Wizard of from re-used movie clips, his voice is played over several Gandalf's actions though.

'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War of the Ring]]'':'''
:Saruman is one of the "Hero" units of the Servants of Sauron, the game also depicts his creation of the Uruk-hai.

'''2004: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth]]'':'''
:Saruman is the main "Hero" unit of Isengard faction, the evil campaign follows his despoilment of both Isengard and the Fangorn Forest, war on Rohan and later conquest of the outlying lands.

'''2006: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth II]]'':'''
:Saruman is still the main "Hero" unit of Isengard faction, but plays no role in the storyline.

'''2011: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard]]'':'''

: Through frequently referred to in-game since 2007, Saruman made no visual appearance until 2011 and the ''Rise of Isengard'' expansion. Many quests in the game display the stretch of the White Hand - Saruman's minions are present in Shire as early as {{TA|3018}}, as well as [[Bree-land]], [[Lone-lands]], [[Eregion]], [[Enedwaith]], [[Dunland]], [[Gap of Rohan]], outskirts of the [[Fangorn Forest]] and even [[Moria]].
:In the storyline of ''Rise of Isengard'' Saruman first appears buying the loyalties of the Dunlending clans, bringing with him riches and maintaining a friendly appearance. He also still keeps his affairs in Rohan private, to the point that when a Rohirrim questions the desolation of [[Nan Curunír]] and the presence of Trolls in Isengard, the Wizard manages to use his voice to convince him that it was all for the good cause. At one point, traitorous Dunlendings capture the player and send him to Saruman as a gift - once again the Wizard maintains a friendly and noble appearance, trying to discern the location of The Ring, before the player escapes.
:A major storyline is derived from a single line in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', where Saruman calls himself "Ring-forger". Long having researched the Rings of Power, Saruman sends his minions to pillage what remains of Ring-Forges of Eregion, looking for any knowledge of ancient Elven smiths that have remained here. Using that lore, he constructs a massive Ring-Forge under Isengard, where he creates five lesser rings and a master one to command them. He keeps the master ring to himself and gives the other to his most trusted lieutenants, though none of the mortals are prepared for it and are turned into monstrosities. A large forces of players defeats them one by one, reclaiming lesser rings and later uses those rings to turn upon the master one. In the ensuing fight Saruman's ring is destroyed shortly before the Battle of Hornburg, and with it the lesser ones lose their power.

'''2014: [[Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor]]:'''
:Voiced by [[Roger Jackson]], Saruman appears in this game as a non-playable character. The game's protagonist, Talion, finds various artefacts that reveal that Saruman's spies are active within the borders of [[Mordor]] in the years between ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]''. It is later revealed that Saruman was controlling Queen Marwen of the [[Nurnen]] to hinder Sauron while bringing about the destruction of the men of [[Nurn]].

==See also==
* [[:Category:Images of Saruman|Images of Saruman]]

{{References}}

{{Ainur}}
{{hobbitfilms}}
[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]
[[Category:Characters in The Silmarillion]]
[[Category:Maiar]]
[[Category:Old English names]]
[[Category:Third Age characters]]
[[Category:Wizards]]
[[Category:Servants of Sauron]]

[[de:Saruman]]
[[fr:/encyclo/personnages/ainur/maiar/istari/saruman]]
[[fi:Saruman]]

Saruman

2021-09-26T20:23:29Z

Protospace: /* History */

{{sources}}
{{maiar infobox
| name=Saruman
| image=[[File:John Howe - Saruman.jpg|250px]]
| caption="Saruman" by [[John Howe]]
| pronun=
| othernames=Curumo, Curunír, [[the White]], Ring-maker, Of many colours, [[Sharkey]]
| titles=
| position=Head of the [[White Council]]
| location=[[Orthanc]]
| affiliation=[[Aulë]] [[Istari]] (Wizards) [[White Council]] [[Sauron]]
| language=
| birth=
| birthlocation=
| rule=
| death=[[3 November]] {{TA|3019}}
| deathlocation=[[Hobbiton]]
| age=
| notablefor=
| house=
| parentage=
| siblings=
| spouse=
| children=
| gender=Male
| height=Tall
| hair=White with strands of black<ref name="Voice">{{TT|Voice}}</ref>
| eyes=
| clothing=White robes, shimmering with many colours
| weapons=Staff Knife
| steed=
}}
{{pronounce|Quenya - Curumo.mp3|Gilgamesh}}
{{quote|[Saruman] is great among the Wise. He is the chief of my order and the head of the Council. His knowledge is deep, but his pride has grown with it, and he takes ill any meddling. The lore of the Elven-rings, great and small, is his province. He has long studied it, seeking the lost secrets of their making (....)|[[Gandalf]], ''[[The Shadow of the Past]]''}}
'''Saruman the White''' ([[Third Age]] c. 1000 – 3019, existed in [[Middle-earth]] for 2019 years) was the first of the order of [[Wizards]] (or ''Istari'') who came to Middle-earth as Emissaries of the [[Valar]] in the [[Third Age]]. He was the leader of the [[White Council]]. In [[Sindarin]] his name was '''Curunír''', which meant "Man of Skill".

==History==
===Early history===
As a [[Maia]], Saruman was created by [[Ilúvatar]] before the [[Music of the Ainur]].<ref name="Ainu">{{S|Ainu}}</ref> In his early days in [[Valinor]], he went by the name ''[[Curumo]]''.<ref>{{UT|Istari}}, note 6</ref> Like [[Sauron]], he was a powerful Maia of [[Aulë]].<ref>{{S|Vala}}</ref>

After the Valar discovered the primeval [[Elves]] at [[Cuiviénen]], Curumo was sent with several other Maiar to guard the Elves from the forces of [[Melkor]]. The Elves called him ''[[Tarindor]]''. It is unclear how long he remained or if he accompanied the [[Eldar]] on the [[Great Journey]].<ref name=Cuv>{{NM|P1xiii}}, p. 95</ref>

===Return to Middle-earth===
After the defeat of Morgoth, the Valar grew concerned about the rising power of Sauron in Middle-earth. In [[Valinor]], a council was called by [[Manwë]], where it was decided to send Maiar as emissaries to Middle-earth to help the [[Free Peoples]] challenge Sauron. The council likely met in the middle of the Second Age, shortly after the creation of the [[Rings of Power]]. The council determined that these emissaries (who became known as the [[Istari]] or Wizards) should be "mighty, peers of Sauron, yet [they should] forgo might, and clothe themselves in flesh so as to treat on equality and win the trust of Elves and Men."<ref name=Istari>{{UT|Istari}}</ref>{{rp|393}} Curumo, who was sent to the council by Aulë, volunteered to travel to Middle-earth as an emissary; he was appointed the first Istar and became the chief of their Order.<ref name=Istari />{{rp|389, 394}}

Even before arriving in Middle-earth, Curumo begrudged his peers among the Istari. ''[[Gandalf|Olórin]]'' (later Gandalf), who did not wish to travel to Middle-earth, was commanded by Manwë to go as the third Istar. Saruman's jealousy of Gandalf began here, when [[Varda]] said of Gandalf that he was "not the third". Saruman was charged to take [[Aiwendil]] (later Radagast) with him to please [[Yavanna]], which he did not wish to do, and this led to his contempt for the latter Wizard.<ref name=Istari />{{rp|393}}

In Middle-earth, Curomo became known in [[Sindarin]] as ''[[Curunír]]'' and in [[Westron]] by his most common name, ''Saruman''. Like the other Wizards, his [[fana]] took the appearance of an old man. He had raven hair and was robed in white.<ref name=Istari />{{rp|393}}

Saruman and others of the Istari arrived in Middle-earth on a ship at [[Mithlond]] (the [[Grey Havens]]) in [[Lindon]] around the year 1000 of the [[Third Age]].<ref name=Istari /> At the time of their arrival, their origin, nature, purpose, and true names were a secret to nearly everyone in Middle-earth. Having witnessed their arrival, [[Círdan]] alone knew the truth of their identity and origin. He chose to give [[Narya]], the Red Ring, to Gandalf to aid him in his mission.<ref name="AppTA"/> Círdan told only [[Galadriel]] and [[Elrond]] of the true origins of the Istari.<ref name="SV"/> After a time, Saruman learned of Círdan's gift and begrudged it; this heightened the hidden ill-will that he bore towards Gandalf.<ref name=Istari/>

Shortly after arriving, Saruman travelled into the [[East]] of Middle-earth, as did the two [[Blue Wizards]]. After one and a half millennia he returned to the West, just as Sauron's power was growing again in [[Dol Guldur]].

===Chief of the White Council===
[[File:Angus McBride - Saruman.gif|thumb|[[Angus McBride]] - ''Saruman'']]
When the [[White Council]] was formed around {{TA|2463}}<ref name="AppTA"/>, Saruman was appointed its leader. Even then, he had begun to sense the resurgence of Sauron and to envy and desire his power, and especially his [[The One Ring|One Ring]]. Coincidentally, in that same year the One Ring was found by the creature [[Gollum]]<ref name="AppTA"/>, drawing the [[Dark Lord]] closer to the conflict that would eventually prove Saruman's undoing.

During this period, Saurman spent years in [[Minas Tirith]] examining its archives. It is possible that there he surmised that a [[Palantíri|''palantír'']] would still be located in [[Orthanc]], the tower of [[Isengard]].<ref>{{UT|Palantiri}}</ref> He offered to make Isengard his home and to command the defences of the West. This was welcomed by King [[Fréaláf]] of [[Rohan]] and [[Ruling Steward|Steward]] [[Beren (Steward of Gondor)|Beren]] of [[Gondor]] alike. In {{TA|2759}}, Saruman was given the [[Key of Orthanc]] in the ring of [[Isengard]] his abode, hoping that he would prove an important ally.<ref name="SV">{{S|V}}</ref><Ref name=stew>{{App|Stewards}}</ref> There he became important in the defence of the free lands of the West. In Orthanc he came upon the [[Orthanc-stone]], one of the seven seeing stones, but kept it secret and hidden, particularly from the White Council. He would later betray the Council by concealing his use of it.

In {{TA|2851}}, the White Council met and Gandalf revealed that the evil presence in Dol Guldur was indeed Sauron and that he had returned, and urged an attack there. Saruman however believed that Sauron would be useful in his quest: allowing Sauron to build up his strength, the One Ring would reveal itself, and Saruman hoped to have sufficient strength to seize it first himself until that event. With this strategy in mind, Saruman overruled Gandalf. It soon became clear that Saruman desired to possess [[the One Ring]] himself.<ref name="AppTA">{{App|TA}}</ref>

He soon found that Sauron had more knowledge of the possible location of the One Ring than he expected, and in {{TA|2941}} he finally consented to an [[Attack on Dol Guldur]] against Sauron at which point Sauron retreated to [[Mordor]].
[[File:Angus McBride - Dol Guldur.jpg|thumb|left|Angus McBride - ''Dol Guldur'']]
In {{TA|2953}}, the [[Wise]] gathered once more to debate about the [[Rings of Power]]. Saruman quieted the Council claiming to have the knowledge that the One Ring was lost forever in the [[Belegaer]]. Following their final meeting (and the death of [[Turgon (Steward of Gondor)|Steward Turgon]]), Saruman took Isengard for his own and fortified it.<Ref name=stew/> Saruman, jealous and afraid of Gandalf, set spies to watch all his movements; thus he discovered the existence of the [[Shire]] and noted Gandalf's interest in it, and started sending agents in [[Bree]] and the [[Southfarthing]].<ref name="AppTA"/> As [[Lord of Isengard]], Saruman began to bring trouble to Rohan by aiding its enemies.<ref name="AppMark">{{App|Mark}}</ref> But the Wise were already suspicious about him; [[Aragorn]] tried to advice Steward [[Ecthelion II]] to not trust Saruman for his help against [[Sauron]].<Ref name=stew/>

Sauron had declared himself openly in Mordor; he established contact with Saruman through the [[Ithil-stone]] his minions had captured from [[Minas Ithil]]. Through his jealousy towards Gandalf and his ever-growing pride and arrogance, and through the use of the ''palantír'' was dominated by Sauron, becoming a servant of his will. Using either the knowledge of his new master or lore of lost [[Eregion]], Saruman crafted his own lesser ring and sought to emulate Sauron. His corruption was complete around {{TA|3000}}.<ref name="AppTA"/> Saruman intended to seize the One Ring for himself, or at the very least stand as a vassal of the victorious Sauron.

===War of the Ring===
At about this time, in an attempt to control [[Rohan]], Saruman bought the allegiance of King [[Théoden]]'s chief advisor, [[Gríma]], who then counselled the ailing king to do nothing about the steady resurgence of Sauron's armies. Saruman and Gríma's treachery would have crippled Rohan's military might and allowed Sauron lordship of the kingdom, had not [[Gandalf]] interfered a year later and revealed to Théoden his right-hand man's true designs, healing the old king and revitalising his political and military rule.

He had sent spies to negotiate the purchase of "[[pipe-weed|leaf]]" from [[the Shire]], in preparation for the war, and also learn of any [[Hobbits]] who had departed recently in hopes of finding out who possessed [[the One Ring]].<ref name="UT10">{{UT|10}}, "Concerning Gandalf, Saruman, and the Shire"</ref>

Saruman did not reveal his true intentions until Gandalf presented him with the discovery and location of the One Ring. On [[10 July]], {{TA|3018}}, Gandalf arrived at Isengard.<ref name="AppGreat">{{App|Great}}</ref> Saruman demanded that Gandalf submit to Sauron or fail. Saruman then stood forth as '''Saruman of Many Colours''', and when Gandalf refused to join him or tell him of the Ring, he held him captive in Isengard.
[[File:The Lord of the Rings - The Two Towers - Gríma and Saruman.jpg|thumb|left|Saruman commanding his forces from Orthanc]]
It must have been during Gandalf's captivity in Orthanc that Saruman began to amass a massive army of [[Orcs]], [[Dunlendings]], and [[Uruk-hai]], since Gandalf came to an as yet un-destroyed Isengard. From the pinnacle of the tower Gandalf could see that Saruman was gathering hordes of orcs and [[wolves]] in his pits and forges.<ref name="FRCouncil">{{FR|Council}}</ref> One can speculate that if matters had developed a little more slowly, his puppet Gríma would have gained full control over Rohan, and the [[Rohirrim]] would have been enslaved or destroyed.

Saruman's plans likely failed because he, like Sauron, was forced to reveal his hand early by Gandalf's subsequent escape, and therefore he had little time to perfect his plans. As Saruman considered himself "unfallen", he honestly believed he had a chance of converting Gandalf to their side, and felt honestly betrayed by Gandalf when he was refused.

Gandalf later escaped, and so Saruman's treachery and service to Sauron became known to the rest of the White Council when Gandalf reported this during the subsequent [[Council of Elrond]].

Saruman soon also betrayed his master by lying to the [[Witch-king]] when he arrived at Isengard. Sauron had sent the [[Nazgûl]] searching for [[Bilbo Baggins|Baggins]], who had found the One Ring years before, and the Shire, his home. Saruman pretended to know nothing about the Shire. But the Lord of Minas Morgul and his company did not have the strength to assault the Ring of Isengard. Saruman told them that he believed Gandalf knew the whereabouts of the Ring and the Riders departed.

In September of {{TA|3018}} the Nazgûl captured one of his [[the Shire|Shire]] [[Squint-eyed Southerner|spies]] who told the [[Witch-king]] everything, betraying Saruman, and exposing the wizard's double treachery. They also seized some maps and information about the Shire and [[Baggins]].<ref name="UT10" /> Caught now as a traitor to the Free Peoples and unfaithful ally to Mordor, Saruman put all efforts into obtaining [[the One Ring]] for himself.<ref name="UTHunt">{{UT|Hunt}}</ref>

The failure to capture the Ring at [[Emyn Muil]] further ruined Saruman's plans, as he was revealed as a traitor to Sauron as well.
[[File:Ted Nasmith - The Wrath of the Ents.jpg|thumb|[[Ted Nasmith]] - ''The Wrath of the Ents'']]
Finding himself in a precarious position, Saruman could only hope to acquire the Ring or reassure Sauron of his loyalties. Therefore he implemented an aggressive strategy of attacking [[Rohan]], endeavouring to kill the King's son [[Théodred]], sending spies to waylay [[Frodo Baggins]] on his flight from the Shire, and dispatching raiding parties on likely routes a company of the Ring might take to Gondor. Ironically, one of these parties captured [[Peregrin Took]] and [[Meriadoc Brandybuck]] and transported them to [[Fangorn Forest]] in time to mobilise the [[Ents]]. Gandalf also suspected Saruman had found (and destroyed) the remains of [[Isildur]], who had worn the Ring before it had been lost.

Saruman's Shire network failed to capture Frodo Baggins, Gandalf rallied Rohan to victory, [[Éomer]] stopped his brutal, but only partially successful raiding party, and control of Isengard was lost to the [[Ents]]. Aware he was utterly defeated, Saruman briefly considered repenting for his deeds, but at the last moment could not go through with it. Whether he had hope he could escape, whether he was too proud to surrender to Gandalf, whether he thought his master would pardon him, Saruman refused to leave the confines of his fortress. Saruman made a final attempt to woo Théoden and Gandalf to his cause but failed: his staff was broken and he was expelled from the Order of the Istari.

Left out of the final stages of the War of the Ring and unable to be of any use to Sauron, he eventually managed to convince his captors, the Ents, into letting him leave Isengard, as apparently the magic of his voice still remained.

[[File:Ted Nasmith - Saruman is Overtaken.jpg|thumb|[[Ted Nasmith]] - ''Saruman is Overtaken'']]On their way to northern [[Dunland]], on [[28 August]]<Ref name=chief>{{App|Chief}}</ref> they were confronted by Gandalf, [[Celeborn]], [[Galadriel]] and the Hobbits, but they passed as travelling beggars as Saruman kicked Gríma to move on, and he exclaimed how he hated his lord. Gandalf told Gríma that he was free to leave him but he did not reply. As Saruman was considered powerless, there was little concern for his escape.<ref name=Partings>{{RK|Partings}}</ref> On [[22 September]]<ref name=chief/> they entered to the Shire, which his ally [[Lotho Sackville-Baggins]] (undisturbed by events elsewhere) had brought under control. He established himself in [[Hobbiton]] and spent his final days as a small-time thug lord whom his [[ruffians]] called '''''Sharkey''''', imposing a terror regime to avenge himself upon the peaceful Halflings. But even this operation fell apart after Frodo and [[Samwise Gamgee]] returned; he was eventually betrayed and killed by his own agent Gríma on [[3 November]], {{TA|3019}}.

Saruman, who was a Maia, had lost his shape with his "death". As a discorporate spirit, he should have been called to [[Mandos]], but a wind came from the [[West]] and pushed it away. Apparently his spirit was left naked, powerless and wandering in Middle-earth; perhaps not unlike his master after the One Ring was destroyed.

==Characteristics==
In appearance, Saruman was as an old man with black hair. At the end of the Third Age, his hair and beard had turned mostly white — he had only black hairs about his lips and ears. He was tall, his face was long, and his eyes were deep and dark. He would appear in a white cloak, a habit he later changed into a cloak that changed colours as he moved.

He was not actually a [[Men|Man]], or even an [[Elves|Elf]] (as Men often suspected), but a [[Maiar|Maia]] clothed in flesh — an [[Istari|Istar]] (see ''Origins'' above). As such, he was immortal and extremely powerful, yet had limits on how far these powers could be used. His two most salient powers were his knowledge and his voice. Saruman was, in a very real way, the junior brother of Sauron both having been Maia of Aulë, Valar of Smithcraft, in the very beginnings of time. The parallels between Sauron and Saruman in both character and actions are many.

=== Powers ===
Knowledge of the "deep arts" (or magic, such as it is in Middle-earth) was of particular interest to Saruman, especially when relating to power such as the [[Rings of Power]] and the far seeing ''[[palantíri]]''. He was also deeply learned in ancient lore regarding powerful kingdoms such as [[Númenor]], [[Gondor]], and [[Moria]].

His voice and speech were extremely convincing, more powerful than mere rhetoric. When he focused this power on a person or a group of people, he could sway their hearts, plant fears and sow lies as he pleased. According to the stature of the listener, this spell could last as long as the speech did, or it could take root in them and last forever. Saruman's voice was so powerful that he was able to convince the [[Witch-king]] that he knew nothing of the One-Ring or the Shire. His voice was not hypnotic, however, rather it was persuasive; and the real danger the voice posed to the listener was not them falling into a trance, but agreeing with it.

Aside from his voice, Saruman has other subtle abilities such as giving great speed and motivation to his orcs at a distance and setting his will against all those in his dominion that might oppose him. Aragorn takes note of this ability while tracking the party of orcs holding Merry and Pippin hostage. Saruman also seems to be able to move around totally unheard by others, as there are numerous examples of him using this ability. Several examples include his sneaking up on [[Aragorn]], [[Gimli]] and [[Legolas]]'s camp in [[The Riders of Rohan]], his wholly unheard entrance in [[The Voice of Saruman]] and his quiet but sudden appearance to the hobbits in [[The Scouring of the Shire]].

Other powers include knowledge of machinery and chemistry, probably separable from explicit magic (for instance, the "blasting fire" employed by his [[Uruk-hai]] army in the battle of [[Helm's Deep]], was some kind of chemical explosive). Machinery and engines characterised both his fortified [[Isengard]] and his altered [[the Shire|Shire]] arenas of influence. In this, he sought to emulate, or even surpass his master, [[Sauron]]. This inclination was constitutional in them both from the very beginning.

His science also extended to biological areas. He is believed to have crossbred Men and Orcs, creating a new race of Orcs unafraid of daylight, the dreaded Uruk-hai, a major improvement on Sauron's thralls who hated daylight. His mannish spies in [[Bree]] were said to have Orc blood, giving them heightened senses over ordinary men. He also employed scavenger birds in his service, although this might also be attributed to [[Radagast]] the Brown, ordering them to report to [[Orthanc]], Saruman's stronghold.

Being regarded as more powerful than [[Gandalf]] (at least before Gandalf's "rebirth"), it's fair to assume he would also wield explicit magic similar to Gandalf, such as artificial light, locking spells, creating fire, etc.

Saruman, walking on the same ruinous path as Sauron, attempted to forge for himself a Ring of Power, much like his master had. This he wore during the War of the Ring which he revealed when he called himself "Saruman the Ring-maker". He had great knowledge and lore of the magic rings created by Sauron and by the Elven-smiths, though at this time the full art of ring-making was lost and known only to his master and so Saruman's knowledge of the craft was incomplete. It is assumed that Saruman's Ring was the equivalent of one of the lesser rings in power and any details of this power is not mentioned. It is also assumed that it too lost its power, if it had any, when the One Ring was destroyed, since Saruman's craft of ring-making was still based on Sauron's. When Gandalf was given Narya, the Ring of Fire, Saruman learned of the gift and resented it. This may be another reason why Saruman desired to have a ring of his own.

===Personality===
Saruman resembled Gandalf not only in appearance, but originally also somewhat in deportment, but unlike Gandalf, Saruman was proud, even haughty. He saw himself as the most powerful of the Istari, expressing clear contempt for Radagast the Brown, patronising tolerance of The Wise and Elves, and sheer disdain for lesser men. Saruman was no fool (though he saw Radagast as one); he realised Gandalf's power, and eventually came to see him as an equal, and later as a superior, much to his distress. He became jealous of Gandalf, eventually convincing himself that Gandalf was scheming against him, which justified his own scheming against Gandalf and the rest of the White Council, and the people of Middle-earth as well. Saruman's ultimate agenda in the end was not very different at all from Sauron's.

Saruman likely was true to his mission in the beginning, and actually believed in working to stop the Darkness, but his pride and later arrogance (as well as his jealousy towards Gandalf and corruption by Sauron) turned him into a traitor to the cause he had once served. Saruman's betrayal was not sudden, but slowly grew over time as Sauron used Saruman's lust for power, admiration of strength and envy as tools of control, until at last Saruman had convinced himself that he could not have taken any other path and that it was too late now to repent. To the last Saruman only believed in his own counsel and the deceptive words of Sauron. This false beliefs kept him from taking his last chance at redemption, and because he must have realised this after Gandalf's truly generous terms he only became more bitter and filled with the rage of failure, blaming Gandalf more than anyone else for his downfall.

==Politics==

===Men===
Saruman "went mostly among men". He always sought power, and it lay in the hands of the kingdoms of Men.

No records speak of his earliest journeys into the east; after his return he became a servant of [[Gondor]], receiving the keys to Orthanc from Beren as its warden. When Gondor weakened, he claimed Orthanc for his own without any formal declaration (or objection from Gondor), yet remained nominally an ally of Gondor and of Rohan.

When he turned to treachery, Saruman employed men mainly from [[Dunland]], and agents from other lands, turning old grudges into fuel for new hatred. The Dunlendings were enticed with the old stories that they had once lived in [[Calenardhon]] before the ''Strawheads''. The Dunlendings became his soldiers and it also seems probable that he used some of them to create [[Half-orcs]].

Gríma Wormtongue played a vital role in Saruman's plans: with Saruman's counsel Gríma began to weaken the king, estranging him from his other counsellors and even his own kin, until Gríma had in effect become the leader of Rohan.

===Elves===
Saruman was once on good terms with the Elves, and was voted in as the leader of the White Council, a group of Elves and Istari united against Sauron.

Saruman knew that Gandalf had been given the third Elvish ring [[Narya]] by [[Círdan]] the Shipwright. This nurtured his jealousy of Gandalf and his resentment towards the Elves.

Saruman had little use for, or interest in, the Elves, who were declining and their lands were few and secretive; although they wielded marvellous powers and two Rings of Power, they were not useful nor accessible for Saruman's ambitions. Also, they succumbed less easily than other races to manipulation.

Even though Isengard lay very close to [[Lothlórien]], Saruman had very little or no contact with it. Saruman never trusted [[Galadriel]] and he accused her of scheming for Gandalf at his expense.<ref name=Partings/>

===Orcs===
Saruman drew his original strength of Orcs from tribes in the [[Misty Mountains]], and perhaps from Moria Orcs. He made use of [[Wargs|Warg]]-mounted Orcs for raids against Rohan.

He also bred [[Orcs of Isengard|Orcs]] in the pits of Isengard, eventually creating crossbreeds of Orcs and Men (probably [[Dunlendings]] or [[Bree-men]]). This programme apparently also involved feeding these greater Orcs Man-flesh as a treat.

His [[Uruk-hai]] legions displayed great discipline and fierce loyalty, in addition to the other improvements such as height, strength, endurance and resistance to sunlight. There also appears to have been middle stages between Men and the Uruk-hai, Men with varying degrees of Orkish appearance such as [[Half-orcs]] and [[Goblin-men]]. These were reported by Pippin and Merry to have been part of Saruman's regular army, but were not Uruk-hai, since the hobbits would have recognised these from their earlier capture.

Saruman's servants called him "[[Sharkey]]" both in Isengard and later in the Shire.

===Ents/Trees===
Saruman made contact with the Ents in [[Fangorn Forest]] shortly after he settled in [[Isengard]]. The oldest of the Ents, [[Treebeard]] received him and gave him free access to the forest.

Saruman also consulted with Treebeard, learning much old lore that the Ents would have remembered from ancient times. Saruman did not return this favour, but only listened.

The Ents saw Saruman's treachery early, and became very concerned, primarily with Saruman's Orcs felling trees on the edge of Fangorn for use in the furnaces of Isengard and sometimes for no reason at all.

The Ents also appear to have had a sense of order, how things should be, that Saruman encroached upon. The crossbreeding of Men and Orcs particularly alarmed them, out of proportion to other concerns enemies of Saruman might have had. Also alarming was the pure fact of his treachery — the Istari were supposed to have a special responsibility.

Saruman used the Ents and the Fangorn forest without concern for the consequences. He clearly misjudged the Ents' abilities and will to act. This might not have been as incautious as it seemed, since major contributing factors to the Ent's actions were advice and requests from Gandalf, and concern about the rising power of Sauron (and their wish to support the front-line troops of the war, Rohan and Gondor).

Saruman clearly had the ability to understand the minds of the Ents when he found it useful. He managed to talk Treebeard into setting him free from Orthanc by pushing just the right buttons — Ents dislike the concept of caging up any creature.

===Hobbits===
The race of [[Hobbits]] and their lands seemed too insignificant to interest Saruman: until he took notice of Gandalf's special concern for them. Studying Gandalf made him focus gradually more and more on the Hobbits and The Shire. For a period he actually travelled there in secret, mapping out the lands. Gandalf was aware of this, but at this point only amused.

He began smoking pipe-weed (a habit of the Hobbits that Gandalf had picked up), also in secret. His demand for tobacco opened up trading between The Shire and Isengard, and the power his money could wield there and the corruption it could cause began to fascinate him. Some of his agents went in secret, and some were known to Gandalf and the [[Rangers of the North|Rangers]].

His anger towards the Hobbits may possibly stem from the attention Gandalf showed them. It certainly strengthened immensely when he discovered that the Hobbits had "conspired" with Gandalf to keep [[the One Ring]] from him.

This, and the sudden urgency caused by the [[Nazgûl|Ringwraiths]]' hunt for the Ring-bearer from The Shire to Rivendell, made him increase his activity in the area, leading to a build-up of power that would lead to virtual conquest of The Shire.

He might also later have blamed the ruin of Isengard by the Ents on [[Peregrin Took]] and [[Meriadoc Brandybuck]], who clearly catalysed events.

This all came together when Saruman escaped from the Ents and retired to The Shire and his thug regime in place there. It appears he immediately switched the focus of this operation to wanton destruction: pollution, murder, fire, chopping down trees for no reason, a last blow against Hobbits and Gandalf.

At his final utter defeat by [[Battle of Bywater|a Hobbit uprising]], his life was spared even when he tried to assassinate [[Frodo Baggins]]. At this moment he actually conceded a short-lived respect to Frodo.

===Valar/Maiar/Wizards===
Saruman was supposedly eager to go to Middle-earth, against Manwë's counsel. After his 'death' he was apparently barred from returning to Valinor, and therefore was denied reincarnation and condemned to waft away and disappear like so much smoke. In his corrupt state, Saruman sought power and the imposing of order in Middle-earth by any means necessary, even if it meant betraying the mission he was entrusted with.

Sauron, in origin a Maia of Aulë like Saruman, awed and frightened him. During the height of his arrogance Saruman thought he could rival Sauron, but in the end he found himself meddling with a spirit of far greater power and knowledge than himself. Caught peering into the ''palantír'' he was seduced by Sauron to his allegiance, no longer opposing (and perhaps even desiring) his victory. Saruman sought to become a lieutenant almost-equal to his master and receive his favor in triumph, yet he was also a duplicitous servant by actively coveting the One Ring. After the failed attempt through the ambush at Amon Hen, Saruman understood the only paths ahead of him were to either show his master faith by crippling Rohan, hoping to at the very least be spared, or come to ruin and torment.

Saruman grudgingly brought with him Radagast as a companion from Valinor, at the request of [[Yavanna]], yet still managed to arrive alone, and first. Shortly after, he went into the East with the two [[Blue Wizards]], and later returned alone. There he may have wrought many great works to diminish the influence of the Enemy or searched for lore to help him in his schemes.

Radagast, even though Saruman scorned him, served both Gandalf and Saruman very usefully (and wholly unintentionally, as he admitted "he had just the wit to play the part I set him", that of persuading Gandalf to come to Isengard). Radagast also sent birds to Saruman and Gandalf to report the different happenings in Middle-earth.

Saruman had always been jealous of Gandalf, and knew that he was keeping secrets from him, such as his suspicion about [[The One Ring|Bilbo's Ring]] and [[Narya]], secret. Gandalf also suspected Saruman of plotting to gain the One Ring for himself, and hinted at this at a meeting of the White Council. Gandalf blew nine small smoke rings and one great one that wavered a bit, seeming almost palpable, and yet blew away, symbolising (almost prophetic of) Saruman's failure in achieving the One. In general, Saruman must have viewed Gandalf as his only peer, and as such to be feared and treated with (although not necessarily shown) respect. He always kept a watchful eye open for Gandalf's doings, and actually picked up the habit of smoking pipe-weed by sending out spies tailing Gandalf to the Shire. After revealing his fealty to Mordor and his desire for the Ring, Saruman offered Gandalf the chance to join with Sauron, or perhaps get the One for themselves. Ultimately, certain he Gandalf could be forced to tell of the Ring's whereabouts or that he could help Sauron win, he came to underestimate Gandalf and think little of his interventions.

Nevertheless, Saruman exercised more power than Gandalf, even with the ring Narya, as became clear when he placed Gandalf under arrest at the pinnacle of Orthanc. The text does not make it clear whether Saruman lost power or whether Gandalf gained power, but when Gandalf returned as "Gandalf [[the White]]", he could summon Saruman at his will, forcibly keep him in his presence, and finally break Saruman's staff (with whatever implications that might have had for Saruman's powers).

Despite his apparent disdain for the Grey Pilgrim, Saruman several times came very close to setting aside his pride and to asking Gandalf for pity and help. The closest call came when the [[Nazgûl|Ringwraiths]] (on their way to the Shire) arrived at Isengard while Gandalf still remained in captivity there. Saruman, realising he might have already lost Sauron's trust, actually went to seek Gandalf's pardon, only to find his erstwhile captive missing from the top of Orthanc.

===Animals===
Saruman had control over many birds, probably having been taught to tame them by Radagast. Crebain spied for him and brought him news. In addition, the Orcs Saruman took in his armies had amongst them wild [[wolves]] and even [[Wargs]], a sort of demonic cousin of the former.

==Etymology==
''Saruman'' is a [[Mannish]] translation of [[Quenya]] ''[[Curumo]]'', his original name in [[Valinor]] as a Maia; and [[Sindarin]] ''[[Curunír]]'' which is supposedly the same name (with the ending ''[[dîr|-ndîr]]'' "man"). All names mean "Skilled Man" or "Cunning One" (root ''[[curu]]'' "skill").<ref name=RC81>{{HM|RC}}, p. 81</ref><ref>{{webcite|author=[[Helge Fauskanger]]|articleurl=http://folk.uib.no/hnohf/quen-eng.htm|articlename=Quettaparma Quenyallo|website=Arda}}</ref><ref>{{webcite|author=[[Didier Willis]], ed.|articleurl=http://www.jrrvf.com/hisweloke/sindar/online/sindar/dict-sd-en.html|articlename=Hiswelókë's Sindarin dictionary|website=[http://www.jrrvf.com/hisweloke/ Hiswelókë]}}</ref>

''Saruman'' is derived from [[Old English]]: the root word ''searu'' means "device, design, contrivance, art" and the whole name means "man of skill".<ref name=RC81/>

His name in [[Sindarin]] was ''Curunír 'Lân''.<ref name=Istari/>

==Other versions of the legendarium==
In the earlier versions of ''The Lord of the Rings'', Saruman was sketched merely as Sauron's fawning servant, while the army he musters is not in rivalry of Mordor's but from the beginning in his new master's employ. In other drafts, the treacherous wizard hands Gandalf over to the evil [[Giants|Giant]] Treebeard or betrays him to the Black Riders. <ref>{{TI|VII}}</ref>

Saruman's older names in these drafts were Sarumond and Saramund,<ref name=rc>{{HM|RC}}, p. xxiii</ref> containing the english term ''mund'' "hand".

==Inspiration==
Saruman was invented and introduced in the story in order to explain Gandalf's absence in the first part of ''The Lord of the Rings'', replacing Treebeard as the wizard's captor. <ref name=rc/>

As a scholar, Tolkien would also have been well aware of the name of a similarly-named historic 'head of his order', Jaruman.

==Portrayal in adaptations==
{{Gallery
|title=Saruman in adaptations
|height=150
|width=250
|File:The Lord of the Rings (1978 film) - Saruman.jpg|Saruman in [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]
|lines=2
|File:The Lord of the Rings (film series) - Saruman using Palantír.jpg|[[Christopher Lee]] as Saruman in [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (film series)]]
|File:LOTRO-Rise of Isengard-Saruman-1.png|Saruman in ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]''
|File:Lego - Saruman minifigure.jpg|Saruman in [[Lego]] form
}}

===Films===
'''1978: [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]:'''
:[[Fraser Kerr]] provided the voice of Saruman. From early on in the production, it was decided that "Saruman" and "Sauron" sounded too much alike, and might confuse viewers. On concept art, Saruman is called "Ruman",<ref>[http://www.ralphbakshi.com/gallery/displayimage.php?album=5&pos=69 1978 - The Lord of the Rings Gallery] at [http://www.ralphbakshi.com Ralphbakshi.com] (accessed 26 March 2011)</ref> but prior to recording, this was changed to "Aruman". However, during recording, it was again changed, to "Saruman". Because of this late change, several instances of "Aruman" remain in the finished film.

'''2001-03: [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (film series)]]:'''
:Saruman was played by [[Christopher Lee]]. Saruman's depiction in the series is more akin to the early drafts, in that he is a more willing and trustworthy servant of Sauron (though he still instructs [[Lurtz]] to bring him the hobbits carrying "something of great value"). The films did not include the [[Scouring of the Shire]], so Saruman's last appearance was in Isengard, during his encounter with Gandalf and Théoden. In the [[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (extended edition)|extended edition of ''The Return of the King'']], Gríma stabs Saruman in the back, causing him to fall on a spiked wheel below the tower of Orthanc.

'''2012-14: [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'' (film series)]]:'''
:[[Christopher Lee]] reprised his role as Saruman, although the character does not appear in the book.<ref name="TelegraphCasting">{{webcite|articleurl=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/film/film-news/8311016/Christopher-Lee-will-star-in-the-Hobbit-prequel.html|articlename=Christopher Lee will star in the Hobbit prequel|dated=08-Feb-2011|website=[http://www.telegraph.co.uk/ The Telegraph]|accessed=21-Dec-2011}}</ref> He appears as part of the [[White Council]] alongside [[Gandalf]], [[Galadriel]] and [[Elrond]]. He is sceptical about the appearance of a [[Sauron#Sauron's Return|Necromancer]] in [[Dol Guldur]]. However, when he participates in the [[attack on Dol Guldur]], he sees for himself that Sauron has indeed returned. After the skirmish, he appears shaken by the display of Sauron's power, but claims he will take it upon himself to keep an eye on the Dark Lord and pretends to care for Lady Galadriel's weakened state.

===Television===
'''1993: [[Hobitit|''Hobitit'']]:'''
:Saruman was played by actor Mikko Kivinen. He appears only in episode "Vanha metsä" ("Old Forest").

===Radio series===
'''1955: [[The Lord of the Rings (1955 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1955 radio series)]]:'''
:The voice of Saruman is provided by [[Robert Farquharson]].

'''1979: [[The Lord of the Rings (1979 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1979 radio series)]]:'''
:The voice of Saruman is provided by [[James Arrington]].

'''1981: [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1981 radio series)]]:'''
:[[Peter Howell]] played Saruman. Because the series follows a chronological timeline rather than the flashbacks of the books, Saruman's betrayal is brought out much sooner than in the book. Excerpts from [[The Hunt for the Ring]] are dramatised to flesh out Gandalf's escape from Isengard, and the Nazgul's pursuit. In the final episode Saruman's death at the hands of Wormtongue at Bag End is included.

'''1992: [[Der Herr der Ringe (1992 German radio series)|''Der Herr der Ringe'' (1992 German radio series)]]:'''
:Saruman is played by Manfred Steffen.

'''2001-2003: [[Pán prsteňov (2001-2003 Slovak radio series)|''Pán prsteňov'' (2001-2003 Slovak radio series)]]:'''
:The voice of Saruman is provided by Andrej Hryc. Saruman appears in all three series (seasons) of this adaptation, with his most prominent appearances in the episodes covering ''The Two Towers''.

===Games===
'''2003: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King'' (video game)]]:'''
:Though Christopher Lee provided the voice of Saruman for many scenes, the only visual appearance of the Wizard of from re-used movie clips, his voice is played over several Gandalf's actions though.

'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War of the Ring]]'':'''
:Saruman is one of the "Hero" units of the Servants of Sauron, the game also depicts his creation of the Uruk-hai.

'''2004: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth]]'':'''
:Saruman is the main "Hero" unit of Isengard faction, the evil campaign follows his despoilment of both Isengard and the Fangorn Forest, war on Rohan and later conquest of the outlying lands.

'''2006: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth II]]'':'''
:Saruman is still the main "Hero" unit of Isengard faction, but plays no role in the storyline.

'''2011: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard]]'':'''

: Through frequently referred to in-game since 2007, Saruman made no visual appearance until 2011 and the ''Rise of Isengard'' expansion. Many quests in the game display the stretch of the White Hand - Saruman's minions are present in Shire as early as {{TA|3018}}, as well as [[Bree-land]], [[Lone-lands]], [[Eregion]], [[Enedwaith]], [[Dunland]], [[Gap of Rohan]], outskirts of the [[Fangorn Forest]] and even [[Moria]].
:In the storyline of ''Rise of Isengard'' Saruman first appears buying the loyalties of the Dunlending clans, bringing with him riches and maintaining a friendly appearance. He also still keeps his affairs in Rohan private, to the point that when a Rohirrim questions the desolation of [[Nan Curunír]] and the presence of Trolls in Isengard, the Wizard manages to use his voice to convince him that it was all for the good cause. At one point, traitorous Dunlendings capture the player and send him to Saruman as a gift - once again the Wizard maintains a friendly and noble appearance, trying to discern the location of The Ring, before the player escapes.
:A major storyline is derived from a single line in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', where Saruman calls himself "Ring-forger". Long having researched the Rings of Power, Saruman sends his minions to pillage what remains of Ring-Forges of Eregion, looking for any knowledge of ancient Elven smiths that have remained here. Using that lore, he constructs a massive Ring-Forge under Isengard, where he creates five lesser rings and a master one to command them. He keeps the master ring to himself and gives the other to his most trusted lieutenants, though none of the mortals are prepared for it and are turned into monstrosities. A large forces of players defeats them one by one, reclaiming lesser rings and later uses those rings to turn upon the master one. In the ensuing fight Saruman's ring is destroyed shortly before the Battle of Hornburg, and with it the lesser ones lose their power.

'''2014: [[Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor]]:'''
:Voiced by [[Roger Jackson]], Saruman appears in this game as a non-playable character. The game's protagonist, Talion, finds various artefacts that reveal that Saruman's spies are active within the borders of [[Mordor]] in the years between ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]''. It is later revealed that Saruman was controlling Queen Marwen of the [[Nurnen]] to hinder Sauron while bringing about the destruction of the men of [[Nurn]].

==See also==
* [[:Category:Images of Saruman|Images of Saruman]]

{{References}}

{{Ainur}}
{{hobbitfilms}}
[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]
[[Category:Characters in The Silmarillion]]
[[Category:Maiar]]
[[Category:Old English names]]
[[Category:Third Age characters]]
[[Category:Wizards]]
[[Category:Servants of Sauron]]

[[de:Saruman]]
[[fr:/encyclo/personnages/ainur/maiar/istari/saruman]]
[[fi:Saruman]]

Saruman

2021-09-26T18:36:02Z

Protospace: /* Return to Middle-earth */

{{sources}}
{{maiar infobox
| name=Saruman
| image=[[File:John Howe - Saruman.jpg|250px]]
| caption="Saruman" by [[John Howe]]
| pronun=
| othernames=Curumo, Curunír, [[the White]], Ring-maker, Of many colours, [[Sharkey]]
| titles=
| position=Head of the [[White Council]]
| location=[[Orthanc]]
| affiliation=[[Aulë]] [[Istari]] (Wizards) [[White Council]] [[Sauron]]
| language=
| birth=
| birthlocation=
| rule=
| death=[[3 November]] {{TA|3019}}
| deathlocation=[[Hobbiton]]
| age=
| notablefor=
| house=
| parentage=
| siblings=
| spouse=
| children=
| gender=Male
| height=Tall
| hair=White with strands of black<ref name="Voice">{{TT|Voice}}</ref>
| eyes=
| clothing=White robes, shimmering with many colours
| weapons=Staff Knife
| steed=
}}
{{pronounce|Quenya - Curumo.mp3|Gilgamesh}}
{{quote|[Saruman] is great among the Wise. He is the chief of my order and the head of the Council. His knowledge is deep, but his pride has grown with it, and he takes ill any meddling. The lore of the Elven-rings, great and small, is his province. He has long studied it, seeking the lost secrets of their making (....)|[[Gandalf]], ''[[The Shadow of the Past]]''}}
'''Saruman the White''' ([[Third Age]] c. 1000 – 3019, existed in [[Middle-earth]] for 2019 years) was the first of the order of [[Wizards]] (or ''Istari'') who came to Middle-earth as Emissaries of the [[Valar]] in the [[Third Age]]. He was the leader of the [[White Council]]. In [[Sindarin]] his name was '''Curunír''', which meant "Man of Skill".

==History==
===Early history===
As a [[Maia]], Saruman was created by [[Ilúvatar]] before the [[Music of the Ainur]].<ref name="Ainu">{{S|Ainu}}</ref> In his early days in [[Valinor]], he went by the name ''[[Curumo]]''.<ref>{{UT|Istari}}, note 6</ref> Like [[Sauron]], he was a powerful Maia of [[Aulë]].<ref>{{S|Vala}}</ref>

After the Valar discovered the primeval [[Elves]] at [[Cuiviénen]], Curumo was sent with several other Maiar to guard the Elves from the forces of [[Melkor]]. The Elves called him ''[[Tarindor]]''. It is unclear how long he remained or if he accompanied the [[Eldar]] on the [[Great Journey]].<ref name=Cuv>{{NM|P1xiii}}, p. 95</ref>

===Return to Middle-earth===
After the defeat of Morgoth, the Valar grew concerned about the rising power of Sauron in Middle-earth. In [[Valinor]], a council was called by [[Manwë]], where it was decided to send Maiar as emissaries to Middle-earth to help the [[Free Peoples]] challenge Sauron. The council likely met in the middle of the Second Age, shortly after the creation of the [[Rings of Power]]. The council determined that these emissaries (later known as the [[Istari]] or Wizards) should be "mighty, peers of Sauron, yet [they should] forgo might, and clothe themselves in flesh so as to treat on equality and win the trust of Elves and Men."<ref name=Istari>{{UT|Istari}}</ref>{{rp|393}} Curumo was sent to the council by Aulë, and he volunteered to travel to Middle-earth as one of these emissaries; he was appointed as the first Istar and became the chief their Order.<ref name=Istari />{{rp|389, 394}}

Even before arriving in Middle-earth, Curumo begrudged his peers among the Istari. ''[[Gandalf|Olórin]]'' (later Gandalf), who did not wish to travel to Middle-earth, was commanded by Manwë to go as the third Istar. Saruman's jealousy of Gandalf began here, when [[Varda]] said of Gandalf that he was "not the third". Saruman was charged to take [[Aiwendil]] (later Radagast) with him to please [[Yavanna]], which he did not wish to do, and this led to his contempt for the latter Wizard.<ref name=Istari />{{rp|393}}

In Middle-earth, Curomo became known in [[Sindarin]] as ''[[Curunír]]'' and in [[Westron]] by his most common name, ''Saruman''. Like the other Wizards, his [[fana]] took the appearance of an old man. He had raven hair and was robed in white.<ref name=Istari />{{rp|393}}

Saruman and others of the Istari arrived in a ship at [[Mithlond]] (the [[Grey Havens]]) in [[Lindon]] around the year 1000 of the [[Third Age]].<ref name=Istari />At the time of their arrival, their origin, nature, purpose, and true names were a secret to nearly everyone in Middle-earth. Having witnessed their arrival, [[Círdan]] alone knew the truth of their identity and origin. He chose to give [[Narya]], the Red Ring, to Gandalf to aid him in his mission.<ref name="AppTA"/> Círdan told only [[Galadriel]] and [[Elrond]] of the true origins of the Istari.<ref name="SV"/> After a time, Saruman learned of Círdan's gift and begrudged it; this heightened the hidden ill-will that he bore towards Gandalf.<ref name=Istari/>

Shortly after arriving, Saruman travelled into the [[East]] of Middle-earth, as did the two [[Blue Wizards]]. After one and a half millennia he returned to the West, just as Sauron's power was growing again in [[Dol Guldur]].

===Chief of the White Council===
[[File:Angus McBride - Saruman.gif|thumb|[[Angus McBride]] - ''Saruman'']]
When the [[White Council]] was formed around {{TA|2463}}<ref name="AppTA"/>, Saruman was appointed its leader. Even then, he had begun to sense the resurgence of Sauron and to envy and desire his power, and especially his [[The One Ring|One Ring]]. Coincidentally, in that same year the One Ring was found by the creature [[Gollum]]<ref name="AppTA"/>, drawing the [[Dark Lord]] closer to the conflict that would eventually prove Saruman's undoing.

During this period, Saurman spent years in [[Minas Tirith]] examining its archives. It is possible that there he surmised that a [[Palantíri|''palantír'']] would still be located in [[Orthanc]], the tower of [[Isengard]].<ref>{{UT|Palantiri}}</ref> He offered to make Isengard his home and to command the defences of the West. This was welcomed by King [[Fréaláf]] of [[Rohan]] and [[Ruling Steward|Steward]] [[Beren (Steward of Gondor)|Beren]] of [[Gondor]] alike. In {{TA|2759}}, Saruman was given the [[Key of Orthanc]] in the ring of [[Isengard]] his abode, hoping that he would prove an important ally.<ref name="SV">{{S|V}}</ref><Ref name=stew>{{App|Stewards}}</ref> There he became important in the defence of the free lands of the West. In Orthanc he came upon the [[Orthanc-stone]], one of the seven seeing stones, but kept it secret and hidden, particularly from the White Council. He would later betray the Council by concealing his use of it.

In {{TA|2851}}, the White Council met and Gandalf revealed that the evil presence in Dol Guldur was indeed Sauron and that he had returned, and urged an attack there. Saruman however believed that Sauron would be useful in his quest: allowing Sauron to build up his strength, the One Ring would reveal itself, and Saruman hoped to have sufficient strength to seize it first himself until that event. With this strategy in mind, Saruman overruled Gandalf. It soon became clear that Saruman desired to possess [[the One Ring]] himself.<ref name="AppTA">{{App|TA}}</ref>

He soon found that Sauron had more knowledge of the possible location of the One Ring than he expected, and in {{TA|2941}} he finally consented to an [[Attack on Dol Guldur]] against Sauron at which point Sauron retreated to [[Mordor]].
[[File:Angus McBride - Dol Guldur.jpg|thumb|left|Angus McBride - ''Dol Guldur'']]
In {{TA|2953}}, the [[Wise]] gathered once more to debate about the [[Rings of Power]]. Saruman quieted the Council claiming to have the knowledge that the One Ring was lost forever in the [[Belegaer]]. Following their final meeting (and the death of [[Turgon (Steward of Gondor)|Steward Turgon]]), Saruman took Isengard for his own and fortified it.<Ref name=stew/> Saruman, jealous and afraid of Gandalf, set spies to watch all his movements; thus he discovered the existence of the [[Shire]] and noted Gandalf's interest in it, and started sending agents in [[Bree]] and the [[Southfarthing]].<ref name="AppTA"/> As [[Lord of Isengard]], Saruman began to bring trouble to Rohan by aiding its enemies.<ref name="AppMark">{{App|Mark}}</ref> But the Wise were already suspicious about him; [[Aragorn]] tried to advice Steward [[Ecthelion II]] to not trust Saruman for his help against [[Sauron]].<Ref name=stew/>

Sauron had declared himself openly in Mordor; he established contact with Saruman through the [[Ithil-stone]] his minions had captured from [[Minas Ithil]]. Through his jealousy towards Gandalf and his ever-growing pride and arrogance, and through the use of the ''palantír'' was dominated by Sauron, becoming a servant of his will. Using either the knowledge of his new master or lore of lost [[Eregion]], Saruman crafted his own lesser ring and sought to emulate Sauron. His corruption was complete around {{TA|3000}}.<ref name="AppTA"/> Saruman intended to seize the One Ring for himself, or at the very least stand as a vassal of the victorious Sauron.

===War of the Ring===
At about this time, in an attempt to control [[Rohan]], Saruman bought the allegiance of King [[Théoden]]'s chief advisor, [[Gríma]], who then counselled the ailing king to do nothing about the steady resurgence of Sauron's armies. Saruman and Gríma's treachery would have crippled Rohan's military might and allowed Sauron lordship of the kingdom, had not [[Gandalf]] interfered a year later and revealed to Théoden his right-hand man's true designs, healing the old king and revitalising his political and military rule.

He had sent spies to negotiate the purchase of "[[pipe-weed|leaf]]" from [[the Shire]], in preparation for the war, and also learn of any [[Hobbits]] who had departed recently in hopes of finding out who possessed [[the One Ring]].<ref name="UT10">{{UT|10}}, "Concerning Gandalf, Saruman, and the Shire"</ref>

Saruman did not reveal his true intentions until Gandalf presented him with the discovery and location of the One Ring. On [[10 July]], {{TA|3018}}, Gandalf arrived at Isengard.<ref name="AppGreat">{{App|Great}}</ref> Saruman demanded that Gandalf submit to Sauron or fail. Saruman then stood forth as '''Saruman of Many Colours''', and when Gandalf refused to join him or tell him of the Ring, he held him captive in Isengard.
[[File:The Lord of the Rings - The Two Towers - Gríma and Saruman.jpg|thumb|left|Saruman commanding his forces from Orthanc]]
It must have been during Gandalf's captivity in Orthanc that Saruman began to amass a massive army of [[Orcs]], [[Dunlendings]], and [[Uruk-hai]], since Gandalf came to an as yet un-destroyed Isengard. From the pinnacle of the tower Gandalf could see that Saruman was gathering hordes of orcs and [[wolves]] in his pits and forges.<ref name="FRCouncil">{{FR|Council}}</ref> One can speculate that if matters had developed a little more slowly, his puppet Gríma would have gained full control over Rohan, and the [[Rohirrim]] would have been enslaved or destroyed.

Saruman's plans likely failed because he, like Sauron, was forced to reveal his hand early by Gandalf's subsequent escape, and therefore he had little time to perfect his plans. As Saruman considered himself "unfallen", he honestly believed he had a chance of converting Gandalf to their side, and felt honestly betrayed by Gandalf when he was refused.

Gandalf later escaped, and so Saruman's treachery and service to Sauron became known to the rest of the White Council when Gandalf reported this during the subsequent [[Council of Elrond]].

Saruman soon also betrayed his master by lying to the [[Witch-king]] when he arrived at Isengard. Sauron had sent the [[Nazgûl]] searching for [[Bilbo Baggins|Baggins]], who had found the One Ring years before, and the Shire, his home. Saruman pretended to know nothing about the Shire. But the Lord of Minas Morgul and his company did not have the strength to assault the Ring of Isengard. Saruman told them that he believed Gandalf knew the whereabouts of the Ring and the Riders departed.

In September of {{TA|3018}} the Nazgûl captured one of his [[the Shire|Shire]] [[Squint-eyed Southerner|spies]] who told the [[Witch-king]] everything, betraying Saruman, and exposing the wizard's double treachery. They also seized some maps and information about the Shire and [[Baggins]].<ref name="UT10" /> Caught now as a traitor to the Free Peoples and unfaithful ally to Mordor, Saruman put all efforts into obtaining [[the One Ring]] for himself.<ref name="UTHunt">{{UT|Hunt}}</ref>

The failure to capture the Ring at [[Emyn Muil]] further ruined Saruman's plans, as he was revealed as a traitor to Sauron as well.
[[File:Ted Nasmith - The Wrath of the Ents.jpg|thumb|[[Ted Nasmith]] - ''The Wrath of the Ents'']]
Finding himself in a precarious position, Saruman could only hope to acquire the Ring or reassure Sauron of his loyalties. Therefore he implemented an aggressive strategy of attacking [[Rohan]], endeavouring to kill the King's son [[Théodred]], sending spies to waylay [[Frodo Baggins]] on his flight from the Shire, and dispatching raiding parties on likely routes a company of the Ring might take to Gondor. Ironically, one of these parties captured [[Peregrin Took]] and [[Meriadoc Brandybuck]] and transported them to [[Fangorn Forest]] in time to mobilise the [[Ents]]. Gandalf also suspected Saruman had found (and destroyed) the remains of [[Isildur]], who had worn the Ring before it had been lost.

Saruman's Shire network failed to capture Frodo Baggins, Gandalf rallied Rohan to victory, [[Éomer]] stopped his brutal, but only partially successful raiding party, and control of Isengard was lost to the [[Ents]]. Aware he was utterly defeated, Saruman briefly considered repenting for his deeds, but at the last moment could not go through with it. Whether he had hope he could escape, whether he was too proud to surrender to Gandalf, whether he thought his master would pardon him, Saruman refused to leave the confines of his fortress. Saruman made a final attempt to woo Théoden and Gandalf to his cause but failed: his staff was broken and he was expelled from the Order of the Istari.

Left out of the final stages of the War of the Ring and unable to be of any use to Sauron, he eventually managed to convince his captors, the Ents, into letting him leave Isengard, as apparently the magic of his voice still remained.

[[File:Ted Nasmith - Saruman is Overtaken.jpg|thumb|[[Ted Nasmith]] - ''Saruman is Overtaken'']]On their way to northern [[Dunland]], on [[28 August]]<Ref name=chief>{{App|Chief}}</ref> they were confronted by Gandalf, [[Celeborn]], [[Galadriel]] and the Hobbits, but they passed as travelling beggars as Saruman kicked Gríma to move on, and he exclaimed how he hated his lord. Gandalf told Gríma that he was free to leave him but he did not reply. As Saruman was considered powerless, there was little concern for his escape.<ref name=Partings>{{RK|Partings}}</ref> On [[22 September]]<ref name=chief/> they entered to the Shire, which his ally [[Lotho Sackville-Baggins]] (undisturbed by events elsewhere) had brought under control. He established himself in [[Hobbiton]] and spent his final days as a small-time thug lord whom his [[ruffians]] called '''''Sharkey''''', imposing a terror regime to avenge himself upon the peaceful Halflings. But even this operation fell apart after Frodo and [[Samwise Gamgee]] returned; he was eventually betrayed and killed by his own agent Gríma on [[3 November]], {{TA|3019}}.

Saruman, who was a Maia, had lost his shape with his "death". As a discorporate spirit, he should have been called to [[Mandos]], but a wind came from the [[West]] and pushed it away. Apparently his spirit was left naked, powerless and wandering in Middle-earth; perhaps not unlike his master after the One Ring was destroyed.

==Characteristics==
In appearance, Saruman was as an old man with black hair. At the end of the Third Age, his hair and beard had turned mostly white — he had only black hairs about his lips and ears. He was tall, his face was long, and his eyes were deep and dark. He would appear in a white cloak, a habit he later changed into a cloak that changed colours as he moved.

He was not actually a [[Men|Man]], or even an [[Elves|Elf]] (as Men often suspected), but a [[Maiar|Maia]] clothed in flesh — an [[Istari|Istar]] (see ''Origins'' above). As such, he was immortal and extremely powerful, yet had limits on how far these powers could be used. His two most salient powers were his knowledge and his voice. Saruman was, in a very real way, the junior brother of Sauron both having been Maia of Aulë, Valar of Smithcraft, in the very beginnings of time. The parallels between Sauron and Saruman in both character and actions are many.

=== Powers ===
Knowledge of the "deep arts" (or magic, such as it is in Middle-earth) was of particular interest to Saruman, especially when relating to power such as the [[Rings of Power]] and the far seeing ''[[palantíri]]''. He was also deeply learned in ancient lore regarding powerful kingdoms such as [[Númenor]], [[Gondor]], and [[Moria]].

His voice and speech were extremely convincing, more powerful than mere rhetoric. When he focused this power on a person or a group of people, he could sway their hearts, plant fears and sow lies as he pleased. According to the stature of the listener, this spell could last as long as the speech did, or it could take root in them and last forever. Saruman's voice was so powerful that he was able to convince the [[Witch-king]] that he knew nothing of the One-Ring or the Shire. His voice was not hypnotic, however, rather it was persuasive; and the real danger the voice posed to the listener was not them falling into a trance, but agreeing with it.

Aside from his voice, Saruman has other subtle abilities such as giving great speed and motivation to his orcs at a distance and setting his will against all those in his dominion that might oppose him. Aragorn takes note of this ability while tracking the party of orcs holding Merry and Pippin hostage. Saruman also seems to be able to move around totally unheard by others, as there are numerous examples of him using this ability. Several examples include his sneaking up on [[Aragorn]], [[Gimli]] and [[Legolas]]'s camp in [[The Riders of Rohan]], his wholly unheard entrance in [[The Voice of Saruman]] and his quiet but sudden appearance to the hobbits in [[The Scouring of the Shire]].

Other powers include knowledge of machinery and chemistry, probably separable from explicit magic (for instance, the "blasting fire" employed by his [[Uruk-hai]] army in the battle of [[Helm's Deep]], was some kind of chemical explosive). Machinery and engines characterised both his fortified [[Isengard]] and his altered [[the Shire|Shire]] arenas of influence. In this, he sought to emulate, or even surpass his master, [[Sauron]]. This inclination was constitutional in them both from the very beginning.

His science also extended to biological areas. He is believed to have crossbred Men and Orcs, creating a new race of Orcs unafraid of daylight, the dreaded Uruk-hai, a major improvement on Sauron's thralls who hated daylight. His mannish spies in [[Bree]] were said to have Orc blood, giving them heightened senses over ordinary men. He also employed scavenger birds in his service, although this might also be attributed to [[Radagast]] the Brown, ordering them to report to [[Orthanc]], Saruman's stronghold.

Being regarded as more powerful than [[Gandalf]] (at least before Gandalf's "rebirth"), it's fair to assume he would also wield explicit magic similar to Gandalf, such as artificial light, locking spells, creating fire, etc.

Saruman, walking on the same ruinous path as Sauron, attempted to forge for himself a Ring of Power, much like his master had. This he wore during the War of the Ring which he revealed when he called himself "Saruman the Ring-maker". He had great knowledge and lore of the magic rings created by Sauron and by the Elven-smiths, though at this time the full art of ring-making was lost and known only to his master and so Saruman's knowledge of the craft was incomplete. It is assumed that Saruman's Ring was the equivalent of one of the lesser rings in power and any details of this power is not mentioned. It is also assumed that it too lost its power, if it had any, when the One Ring was destroyed, since Saruman's craft of ring-making was still based on Sauron's. When Gandalf was given Narya, the Ring of Fire, Saruman learned of the gift and resented it. This may be another reason why Saruman desired to have a ring of his own.

===Personality===
Saruman resembled Gandalf not only in appearance, but originally also somewhat in deportment, but unlike Gandalf, Saruman was proud, even haughty. He saw himself as the most powerful of the Istari, expressing clear contempt for Radagast the Brown, patronising tolerance of The Wise and Elves, and sheer disdain for lesser men. Saruman was no fool (though he saw Radagast as one); he realised Gandalf's power, and eventually came to see him as an equal, and later as a superior, much to his distress. He became jealous of Gandalf, eventually convincing himself that Gandalf was scheming against him, which justified his own scheming against Gandalf and the rest of the White Council, and the people of Middle-earth as well. Saruman's ultimate agenda in the end was not very different at all from Sauron's.

Saruman likely was true to his mission in the beginning, and actually believed in working to stop the Darkness, but his pride and later arrogance (as well as his jealousy towards Gandalf and corruption by Sauron) turned him into a traitor to the cause he had once served. Saruman's betrayal was not sudden, but slowly grew over time as Sauron used Saruman's lust for power, admiration of strength and envy as tools of control, until at last Saruman had convinced himself that he could not have taken any other path and that it was too late now to repent. To the last Saruman only believed in his own counsel and the deceptive words of Sauron. This false beliefs kept him from taking his last chance at redemption, and because he must have realised this after Gandalf's truly generous terms he only became more bitter and filled with the rage of failure, blaming Gandalf more than anyone else for his downfall.

==Politics==

===Men===
Saruman "went mostly among men". He always sought power, and it lay in the hands of the kingdoms of Men.

No records speak of his earliest journeys into the east; after his return he became a servant of [[Gondor]], receiving the keys to Orthanc from Beren as its warden. When Gondor weakened, he claimed Orthanc for his own without any formal declaration (or objection from Gondor), yet remained nominally an ally of Gondor and of Rohan.

When he turned to treachery, Saruman employed men mainly from [[Dunland]], and agents from other lands, turning old grudges into fuel for new hatred. The Dunlendings were enticed with the old stories that they had once lived in [[Calenardhon]] before the ''Strawheads''. The Dunlendings became his soldiers and it also seems probable that he used some of them to create [[Half-orcs]].

Gríma Wormtongue played a vital role in Saruman's plans: with Saruman's counsel Gríma began to weaken the king, estranging him from his other counsellors and even his own kin, until Gríma had in effect become the leader of Rohan.

===Elves===
Saruman was once on good terms with the Elves, and was voted in as the leader of the White Council, a group of Elves and Istari united against Sauron.

Saruman knew that Gandalf had been given the third Elvish ring [[Narya]] by [[Círdan]] the Shipwright. This nurtured his jealousy of Gandalf and his resentment towards the Elves.

Saruman had little use for, or interest in, the Elves, who were declining and their lands were few and secretive; although they wielded marvellous powers and two Rings of Power, they were not useful nor accessible for Saruman's ambitions. Also, they succumbed less easily than other races to manipulation.

Even though Isengard lay very close to [[Lothlórien]], Saruman had very little or no contact with it. Saruman never trusted [[Galadriel]] and he accused her of scheming for Gandalf at his expense.<ref name=Partings/>

===Orcs===
Saruman drew his original strength of Orcs from tribes in the [[Misty Mountains]], and perhaps from Moria Orcs. He made use of [[Wargs|Warg]]-mounted Orcs for raids against Rohan.

He also bred [[Orcs of Isengard|Orcs]] in the pits of Isengard, eventually creating crossbreeds of Orcs and Men (probably [[Dunlendings]] or [[Bree-men]]). This programme apparently also involved feeding these greater Orcs Man-flesh as a treat.

His [[Uruk-hai]] legions displayed great discipline and fierce loyalty, in addition to the other improvements such as height, strength, endurance and resistance to sunlight. There also appears to have been middle stages between Men and the Uruk-hai, Men with varying degrees of Orkish appearance such as [[Half-orcs]] and [[Goblin-men]]. These were reported by Pippin and Merry to have been part of Saruman's regular army, but were not Uruk-hai, since the hobbits would have recognised these from their earlier capture.

Saruman's servants called him "[[Sharkey]]" both in Isengard and later in the Shire.

===Ents/Trees===
Saruman made contact with the Ents in [[Fangorn Forest]] shortly after he settled in [[Isengard]]. The oldest of the Ents, [[Treebeard]] received him and gave him free access to the forest.

Saruman also consulted with Treebeard, learning much old lore that the Ents would have remembered from ancient times. Saruman did not return this favour, but only listened.

The Ents saw Saruman's treachery early, and became very concerned, primarily with Saruman's Orcs felling trees on the edge of Fangorn for use in the furnaces of Isengard and sometimes for no reason at all.

The Ents also appear to have had a sense of order, how things should be, that Saruman encroached upon. The crossbreeding of Men and Orcs particularly alarmed them, out of proportion to other concerns enemies of Saruman might have had. Also alarming was the pure fact of his treachery — the Istari were supposed to have a special responsibility.

Saruman used the Ents and the Fangorn forest without concern for the consequences. He clearly misjudged the Ents' abilities and will to act. This might not have been as incautious as it seemed, since major contributing factors to the Ent's actions were advice and requests from Gandalf, and concern about the rising power of Sauron (and their wish to support the front-line troops of the war, Rohan and Gondor).

Saruman clearly had the ability to understand the minds of the Ents when he found it useful. He managed to talk Treebeard into setting him free from Orthanc by pushing just the right buttons — Ents dislike the concept of caging up any creature.

===Hobbits===
The race of [[Hobbits]] and their lands seemed too insignificant to interest Saruman: until he took notice of Gandalf's special concern for them. Studying Gandalf made him focus gradually more and more on the Hobbits and The Shire. For a period he actually travelled there in secret, mapping out the lands. Gandalf was aware of this, but at this point only amused.

He began smoking pipe-weed (a habit of the Hobbits that Gandalf had picked up), also in secret. His demand for tobacco opened up trading between The Shire and Isengard, and the power his money could wield there and the corruption it could cause began to fascinate him. Some of his agents went in secret, and some were known to Gandalf and the [[Rangers of the North|Rangers]].

His anger towards the Hobbits may possibly stem from the attention Gandalf showed them. It certainly strengthened immensely when he discovered that the Hobbits had "conspired" with Gandalf to keep [[the One Ring]] from him.

This, and the sudden urgency caused by the [[Nazgûl|Ringwraiths]]' hunt for the Ring-bearer from The Shire to Rivendell, made him increase his activity in the area, leading to a build-up of power that would lead to virtual conquest of The Shire.

He might also later have blamed the ruin of Isengard by the Ents on [[Peregrin Took]] and [[Meriadoc Brandybuck]], who clearly catalysed events.

This all came together when Saruman escaped from the Ents and retired to The Shire and his thug regime in place there. It appears he immediately switched the focus of this operation to wanton destruction: pollution, murder, fire, chopping down trees for no reason, a last blow against Hobbits and Gandalf.

At his final utter defeat by [[Battle of Bywater|a Hobbit uprising]], his life was spared even when he tried to assassinate [[Frodo Baggins]]. At this moment he actually conceded a short-lived respect to Frodo.

===Valar/Maiar/Wizards===
Saruman was supposedly eager to go to Middle-earth, against Manwë's counsel. After his 'death' he was apparently barred from returning to Valinor, and therefore was denied reincarnation and condemned to waft away and disappear like so much smoke. In his corrupt state, Saruman sought power and the imposing of order in Middle-earth by any means necessary, even if it meant betraying the mission he was entrusted with.

Sauron, in origin a Maia of Aulë like Saruman, awed and frightened him. During the height of his arrogance Saruman thought he could rival Sauron, but in the end he found himself meddling with a spirit of far greater power and knowledge than himself. Caught peering into the ''palantír'' he was seduced by Sauron to his allegiance, no longer opposing (and perhaps even desiring) his victory. Saruman sought to become a lieutenant almost-equal to his master and receive his favor in triumph, yet he was also a duplicitous servant by actively coveting the One Ring. After the failed attempt through the ambush at Amon Hen, Saruman understood the only paths ahead of him were to either show his master faith by crippling Rohan, hoping to at the very least be spared, or come to ruin and torment.

Saruman grudgingly brought with him Radagast as a companion from Valinor, at the request of [[Yavanna]], yet still managed to arrive alone, and first. Shortly after, he went into the East with the two [[Blue Wizards]], and later returned alone. There he may have wrought many great works to diminish the influence of the Enemy or searched for lore to help him in his schemes.

Radagast, even though Saruman scorned him, served both Gandalf and Saruman very usefully (and wholly unintentionally, as he admitted "he had just the wit to play the part I set him", that of persuading Gandalf to come to Isengard). Radagast also sent birds to Saruman and Gandalf to report the different happenings in Middle-earth.

Saruman had always been jealous of Gandalf, and knew that he was keeping secrets from him, such as his suspicion about [[The One Ring|Bilbo's Ring]] and [[Narya]], secret. Gandalf also suspected Saruman of plotting to gain the One Ring for himself, and hinted at this at a meeting of the White Council. Gandalf blew nine small smoke rings and one great one that wavered a bit, seeming almost palpable, and yet blew away, symbolising (almost prophetic of) Saruman's failure in achieving the One. In general, Saruman must have viewed Gandalf as his only peer, and as such to be feared and treated with (although not necessarily shown) respect. He always kept a watchful eye open for Gandalf's doings, and actually picked up the habit of smoking pipe-weed by sending out spies tailing Gandalf to the Shire. After revealing his fealty to Mordor and his desire for the Ring, Saruman offered Gandalf the chance to join with Sauron, or perhaps get the One for themselves. Ultimately, certain he Gandalf could be forced to tell of the Ring's whereabouts or that he could help Sauron win, he came to underestimate Gandalf and think little of his interventions.

Nevertheless, Saruman exercised more power than Gandalf, even with the ring Narya, as became clear when he placed Gandalf under arrest at the pinnacle of Orthanc. The text does not make it clear whether Saruman lost power or whether Gandalf gained power, but when Gandalf returned as "Gandalf [[the White]]", he could summon Saruman at his will, forcibly keep him in his presence, and finally break Saruman's staff (with whatever implications that might have had for Saruman's powers).

Despite his apparent disdain for the Grey Pilgrim, Saruman several times came very close to setting aside his pride and to asking Gandalf for pity and help. The closest call came when the [[Nazgûl|Ringwraiths]] (on their way to the Shire) arrived at Isengard while Gandalf still remained in captivity there. Saruman, realising he might have already lost Sauron's trust, actually went to seek Gandalf's pardon, only to find his erstwhile captive missing from the top of Orthanc.

===Animals===
Saruman had control over many birds, probably having been taught to tame them by Radagast. Crebain spied for him and brought him news. In addition, the Orcs Saruman took in his armies had amongst them wild [[wolves]] and even [[Wargs]], a sort of demonic cousin of the former.

==Etymology==
''Saruman'' is a [[Mannish]] translation of [[Quenya]] ''[[Curumo]]'', his original name in [[Valinor]] as a Maia; and [[Sindarin]] ''[[Curunír]]'' which is supposedly the same name (with the ending ''[[dîr|-ndîr]]'' "man"). All names mean "Skilled Man" or "Cunning One" (root ''[[curu]]'' "skill").<ref name=RC81>{{HM|RC}}, p. 81</ref><ref>{{webcite|author=[[Helge Fauskanger]]|articleurl=http://folk.uib.no/hnohf/quen-eng.htm|articlename=Quettaparma Quenyallo|website=Arda}}</ref><ref>{{webcite|author=[[Didier Willis]], ed.|articleurl=http://www.jrrvf.com/hisweloke/sindar/online/sindar/dict-sd-en.html|articlename=Hiswelókë's Sindarin dictionary|website=[http://www.jrrvf.com/hisweloke/ Hiswelókë]}}</ref>

''Saruman'' is derived from [[Old English]]: the root word ''searu'' means "device, design, contrivance, art" and the whole name means "man of skill".<ref name=RC81/>

His name in [[Sindarin]] was ''Curunír 'Lân''.<ref name=Istari/>

==Other versions of the legendarium==
In the earlier versions of ''The Lord of the Rings'', Saruman was sketched merely as Sauron's fawning servant, while the army he musters is not in rivalry of Mordor's but from the beginning in his new master's employ. In other drafts, the treacherous wizard hands Gandalf over to the evil [[Giants|Giant]] Treebeard or betrays him to the Black Riders. <ref>{{TI|VII}}</ref>

Saruman's older names in these drafts were Sarumond and Saramund,<ref name=rc>{{HM|RC}}, p. xxiii</ref> containing the english term ''mund'' "hand".

==Inspiration==
Saruman was invented and introduced in the story in order to explain Gandalf's absence in the first part of ''The Lord of the Rings'', replacing Treebeard as the wizard's captor. <ref name=rc/>

As a scholar, Tolkien would also have been well aware of the name of a similarly-named historic 'head of his order', Jaruman.

==Portrayal in adaptations==
{{Gallery
|title=Saruman in adaptations
|height=150
|width=250
|File:The Lord of the Rings (1978 film) - Saruman.jpg|Saruman in [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]
|lines=2
|File:The Lord of the Rings (film series) - Saruman using Palantír.jpg|[[Christopher Lee]] as Saruman in [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (film series)]]
|File:LOTRO-Rise of Isengard-Saruman-1.png|Saruman in ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]''
|File:Lego - Saruman minifigure.jpg|Saruman in [[Lego]] form
}}

===Films===
'''1978: [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]:'''
:[[Fraser Kerr]] provided the voice of Saruman. From early on in the production, it was decided that "Saruman" and "Sauron" sounded too much alike, and might confuse viewers. On concept art, Saruman is called "Ruman",<ref>[http://www.ralphbakshi.com/gallery/displayimage.php?album=5&pos=69 1978 - The Lord of the Rings Gallery] at [http://www.ralphbakshi.com Ralphbakshi.com] (accessed 26 March 2011)</ref> but prior to recording, this was changed to "Aruman". However, during recording, it was again changed, to "Saruman". Because of this late change, several instances of "Aruman" remain in the finished film.

'''2001-03: [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (film series)]]:'''
:Saruman was played by [[Christopher Lee]]. Saruman's depiction in the series is more akin to the early drafts, in that he is a more willing and trustworthy servant of Sauron (though he still instructs [[Lurtz]] to bring him the hobbits carrying "something of great value"). The films did not include the [[Scouring of the Shire]], so Saruman's last appearance was in Isengard, during his encounter with Gandalf and Théoden. In the [[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (extended edition)|extended edition of ''The Return of the King'']], Gríma stabs Saruman in the back, causing him to fall on a spiked wheel below the tower of Orthanc.

'''2012-14: [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'' (film series)]]:'''
:[[Christopher Lee]] reprised his role as Saruman, although the character does not appear in the book.<ref name="TelegraphCasting">{{webcite|articleurl=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/film/film-news/8311016/Christopher-Lee-will-star-in-the-Hobbit-prequel.html|articlename=Christopher Lee will star in the Hobbit prequel|dated=08-Feb-2011|website=[http://www.telegraph.co.uk/ The Telegraph]|accessed=21-Dec-2011}}</ref> He appears as part of the [[White Council]] alongside [[Gandalf]], [[Galadriel]] and [[Elrond]]. He is sceptical about the appearance of a [[Sauron#Sauron's Return|Necromancer]] in [[Dol Guldur]]. However, when he participates in the [[attack on Dol Guldur]], he sees for himself that Sauron has indeed returned. After the skirmish, he appears shaken by the display of Sauron's power, but claims he will take it upon himself to keep an eye on the Dark Lord and pretends to care for Lady Galadriel's weakened state.

===Television===
'''1993: [[Hobitit|''Hobitit'']]:'''
:Saruman was played by actor Mikko Kivinen. He appears only in episode "Vanha metsä" ("Old Forest").

===Radio series===
'''1955: [[The Lord of the Rings (1955 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1955 radio series)]]:'''
:The voice of Saruman is provided by [[Robert Farquharson]].

'''1979: [[The Lord of the Rings (1979 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1979 radio series)]]:'''
:The voice of Saruman is provided by [[James Arrington]].

'''1981: [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1981 radio series)]]:'''
:[[Peter Howell]] played Saruman. Because the series follows a chronological timeline rather than the flashbacks of the books, Saruman's betrayal is brought out much sooner than in the book. Excerpts from [[The Hunt for the Ring]] are dramatised to flesh out Gandalf's escape from Isengard, and the Nazgul's pursuit. In the final episode Saruman's death at the hands of Wormtongue at Bag End is included.

'''1992: [[Der Herr der Ringe (1992 German radio series)|''Der Herr der Ringe'' (1992 German radio series)]]:'''
:Saruman is played by Manfred Steffen.

'''2001-2003: [[Pán prsteňov (2001-2003 Slovak radio series)|''Pán prsteňov'' (2001-2003 Slovak radio series)]]:'''
:The voice of Saruman is provided by Andrej Hryc. Saruman appears in all three series (seasons) of this adaptation, with his most prominent appearances in the episodes covering ''The Two Towers''.

===Games===
'''2003: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King'' (video game)]]:'''
:Though Christopher Lee provided the voice of Saruman for many scenes, the only visual appearance of the Wizard of from re-used movie clips, his voice is played over several Gandalf's actions though.

'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War of the Ring]]'':'''
:Saruman is one of the "Hero" units of the Servants of Sauron, the game also depicts his creation of the Uruk-hai.

'''2004: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth]]'':'''
:Saruman is the main "Hero" unit of Isengard faction, the evil campaign follows his despoilment of both Isengard and the Fangorn Forest, war on Rohan and later conquest of the outlying lands.

'''2006: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth II]]'':'''
:Saruman is still the main "Hero" unit of Isengard faction, but plays no role in the storyline.

'''2011: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard]]'':'''

: Through frequently referred to in-game since 2007, Saruman made no visual appearance until 2011 and the ''Rise of Isengard'' expansion. Many quests in the game display the stretch of the White Hand - Saruman's minions are present in Shire as early as {{TA|3018}}, as well as [[Bree-land]], [[Lone-lands]], [[Eregion]], [[Enedwaith]], [[Dunland]], [[Gap of Rohan]], outskirts of the [[Fangorn Forest]] and even [[Moria]].
:In the storyline of ''Rise of Isengard'' Saruman first appears buying the loyalties of the Dunlending clans, bringing with him riches and maintaining a friendly appearance. He also still keeps his affairs in Rohan private, to the point that when a Rohirrim questions the desolation of [[Nan Curunír]] and the presence of Trolls in Isengard, the Wizard manages to use his voice to convince him that it was all for the good cause. At one point, traitorous Dunlendings capture the player and send him to Saruman as a gift - once again the Wizard maintains a friendly and noble appearance, trying to discern the location of The Ring, before the player escapes.
:A major storyline is derived from a single line in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', where Saruman calls himself "Ring-forger". Long having researched the Rings of Power, Saruman sends his minions to pillage what remains of Ring-Forges of Eregion, looking for any knowledge of ancient Elven smiths that have remained here. Using that lore, he constructs a massive Ring-Forge under Isengard, where he creates five lesser rings and a master one to command them. He keeps the master ring to himself and gives the other to his most trusted lieutenants, though none of the mortals are prepared for it and are turned into monstrosities. A large forces of players defeats them one by one, reclaiming lesser rings and later uses those rings to turn upon the master one. In the ensuing fight Saruman's ring is destroyed shortly before the Battle of Hornburg, and with it the lesser ones lose their power.

'''2014: [[Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor]]:'''
:Voiced by [[Roger Jackson]], Saruman appears in this game as a non-playable character. The game's protagonist, Talion, finds various artefacts that reveal that Saruman's spies are active within the borders of [[Mordor]] in the years between ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]''. It is later revealed that Saruman was controlling Queen Marwen of the [[Nurnen]] to hinder Sauron while bringing about the destruction of the men of [[Nurn]].

==See also==
* [[:Category:Images of Saruman|Images of Saruman]]

{{References}}

{{Ainur}}
{{hobbitfilms}}
[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]
[[Category:Characters in The Silmarillion]]
[[Category:Maiar]]
[[Category:Old English names]]
[[Category:Third Age characters]]
[[Category:Wizards]]
[[Category:Servants of Sauron]]

[[de:Saruman]]
[[fr:/encyclo/personnages/ainur/maiar/istari/saruman]]
[[fi:Saruman]]

Saruman

2021-09-26T18:31:48Z

Protospace: /* Early history */

{{sources}}
{{maiar infobox
| name=Saruman
| image=[[File:John Howe - Saruman.jpg|250px]]
| caption="Saruman" by [[John Howe]]
| pronun=
| othernames=Curumo, Curunír, [[the White]], Ring-maker, Of many colours, [[Sharkey]]
| titles=
| position=Head of the [[White Council]]
| location=[[Orthanc]]
| affiliation=[[Aulë]] [[Istari]] (Wizards) [[White Council]] [[Sauron]]
| language=
| birth=
| birthlocation=
| rule=
| death=[[3 November]] {{TA|3019}}
| deathlocation=[[Hobbiton]]
| age=
| notablefor=
| house=
| parentage=
| siblings=
| spouse=
| children=
| gender=Male
| height=Tall
| hair=White with strands of black<ref name="Voice">{{TT|Voice}}</ref>
| eyes=
| clothing=White robes, shimmering with many colours
| weapons=Staff Knife
| steed=
}}
{{pronounce|Quenya - Curumo.mp3|Gilgamesh}}
{{quote|[Saruman] is great among the Wise. He is the chief of my order and the head of the Council. His knowledge is deep, but his pride has grown with it, and he takes ill any meddling. The lore of the Elven-rings, great and small, is his province. He has long studied it, seeking the lost secrets of their making (....)|[[Gandalf]], ''[[The Shadow of the Past]]''}}
'''Saruman the White''' ([[Third Age]] c. 1000 – 3019, existed in [[Middle-earth]] for 2019 years) was the first of the order of [[Wizards]] (or ''Istari'') who came to Middle-earth as Emissaries of the [[Valar]] in the [[Third Age]]. He was the leader of the [[White Council]]. In [[Sindarin]] his name was '''Curunír''', which meant "Man of Skill".

==History==
===Early history===
As a [[Maia]], Saruman was created by [[Ilúvatar]] before the [[Music of the Ainur]].<ref name="Ainu">{{S|Ainu}}</ref> In his early days in [[Valinor]], he went by the name ''[[Curumo]]''.<ref>{{UT|Istari}}, note 6</ref> Like [[Sauron]], he was a powerful Maia of [[Aulë]].<ref>{{S|Vala}}</ref>

After the Valar discovered the primeval [[Elves]] at [[Cuiviénen]], Curumo was sent with several other Maiar to guard the Elves from the forces of [[Melkor]]. The Elves called him ''[[Tarindor]]''. It is unclear how long he remained or if he accompanied the [[Eldar]] on the [[Great Journey]].<ref name=Cuv>{{NM|P1xiii}}, p. 95</ref>

===Return to Middle-earth===
After the defeat of Morgoth, the Valar grew concerned about the rising power of Sauron in Middle-earth. In [[Valinor]], a council was called by [[Manwë]], where it was decided to send Maiar as emissaries to Middle-earth to help the [[Free Peoples]] challenge Sauron. The council likely met in the middle of the Second Age, shortly after the creation of the [[Rings of Power]]. The council determined that these emissaries (later known as the [[Istari]] or Wizards) should be "mighty, peers of Sauron, yet [they should] forgo might, and clothe themselves in flesh so as to treat on equality and win the trust of Elves and Men."<ref name=Istari>{{UT|Istari}}</ref>{{rp|393}} Curumo was sent to the council by Aulë, and he volunteered to travel to Middle-earth as one of these emissaries; he was appointed as the first Istar and became the chief their Order.<ref name=Istari />{{rp|389, 394}}

Even before arriving in Middle-earth, Curumo begrudged his peers among the Istari. ''[[Gandalf|Olórin]]'' (later Gandalf), who did not wish to travel to Middle-earth, was commanded by Manwë to go as the third Istar. Saruman's jealousy of Gandalf began here, when [[Varda]] said of Gandalf that he was "not the third". Saruman was charged to take [[Aiwendil]] (later Radagast) with him to please [[Yavanna]], which he did not wish to do, and this led to his contempt for the latter Wizard.<ref name=Istari />{{rp|393}}

In Middle-earth, Curomo became known in [[Sindarin]] as ''[[Curunír]]'' and in [[Westron]] by his most common name, ''Saruman''. Like the other Wizards, his [[fana]] took the appearance of an old man. He had raven hairand was robed in white.<ref name=Istari />{{rp|393}}

Saruman and others of the Istari arrived in a ship at [[Mithlond]] (the [[Grey Havens]]) in [[Lindon]] around the year 1000 of the [[Third Age]].<ref name=Istari />At the time of their arrival, their origin, nature, purpose, and true names were a secret to nearly everyone in Middle-earth. Having witnessed their arrival, [[Círdan]] alone knew the truth of their identity and origin. He chose to give [[Narya]], the Red Ring, to Gandalf to aid him in his mission.<ref name="AppTA"/> Círdan told only [[Galadriel]] and [[Elrond]] of the true origins of the Istari.<ref name="SV"/> After a time, Saruman learned of Círdan's gift and begrudged it; this heightened the hidden ill-will that he bore towards Gandalf.<ref name=Istari/>

Shortly after arriving, Saruman travelled into the [[East]] of Middle-earth, as did the two [[Blue Wizards]]. After one and a half millennia he returned to the West, just as Sauron's power was growing again in [[Dol Guldur]].

===Chief of the White Council===
[[File:Angus McBride - Saruman.gif|thumb|[[Angus McBride]] - ''Saruman'']]
When the [[White Council]] was formed around {{TA|2463}}<ref name="AppTA"/>, Saruman was appointed its leader. Even then, he had begun to sense the resurgence of Sauron and to envy and desire his power, and especially his [[The One Ring|One Ring]]. Coincidentally, in that same year the One Ring was found by the creature [[Gollum]]<ref name="AppTA"/>, drawing the [[Dark Lord]] closer to the conflict that would eventually prove Saruman's undoing.

During this period, Saurman spent years in [[Minas Tirith]] examining its archives. It is possible that there he surmised that a [[Palantíri|''palantír'']] would still be located in [[Orthanc]], the tower of [[Isengard]].<ref>{{UT|Palantiri}}</ref> He offered to make Isengard his home and to command the defences of the West. This was welcomed by King [[Fréaláf]] of [[Rohan]] and [[Ruling Steward|Steward]] [[Beren (Steward of Gondor)|Beren]] of [[Gondor]] alike. In {{TA|2759}}, Saruman was given the [[Key of Orthanc]] in the ring of [[Isengard]] his abode, hoping that he would prove an important ally.<ref name="SV">{{S|V}}</ref><Ref name=stew>{{App|Stewards}}</ref> There he became important in the defence of the free lands of the West. In Orthanc he came upon the [[Orthanc-stone]], one of the seven seeing stones, but kept it secret and hidden, particularly from the White Council. He would later betray the Council by concealing his use of it.

In {{TA|2851}}, the White Council met and Gandalf revealed that the evil presence in Dol Guldur was indeed Sauron and that he had returned, and urged an attack there. Saruman however believed that Sauron would be useful in his quest: allowing Sauron to build up his strength, the One Ring would reveal itself, and Saruman hoped to have sufficient strength to seize it first himself until that event. With this strategy in mind, Saruman overruled Gandalf. It soon became clear that Saruman desired to possess [[the One Ring]] himself.<ref name="AppTA">{{App|TA}}</ref>

He soon found that Sauron had more knowledge of the possible location of the One Ring than he expected, and in {{TA|2941}} he finally consented to an [[Attack on Dol Guldur]] against Sauron at which point Sauron retreated to [[Mordor]].
[[File:Angus McBride - Dol Guldur.jpg|thumb|left|Angus McBride - ''Dol Guldur'']]
In {{TA|2953}}, the [[Wise]] gathered once more to debate about the [[Rings of Power]]. Saruman quieted the Council claiming to have the knowledge that the One Ring was lost forever in the [[Belegaer]]. Following their final meeting (and the death of [[Turgon (Steward of Gondor)|Steward Turgon]]), Saruman took Isengard for his own and fortified it.<Ref name=stew/> Saruman, jealous and afraid of Gandalf, set spies to watch all his movements; thus he discovered the existence of the [[Shire]] and noted Gandalf's interest in it, and started sending agents in [[Bree]] and the [[Southfarthing]].<ref name="AppTA"/> As [[Lord of Isengard]], Saruman began to bring trouble to Rohan by aiding its enemies.<ref name="AppMark">{{App|Mark}}</ref> But the Wise were already suspicious about him; [[Aragorn]] tried to advice Steward [[Ecthelion II]] to not trust Saruman for his help against [[Sauron]].<Ref name=stew/>

Sauron had declared himself openly in Mordor; he established contact with Saruman through the [[Ithil-stone]] his minions had captured from [[Minas Ithil]]. Through his jealousy towards Gandalf and his ever-growing pride and arrogance, and through the use of the ''palantír'' was dominated by Sauron, becoming a servant of his will. Using either the knowledge of his new master or lore of lost [[Eregion]], Saruman crafted his own lesser ring and sought to emulate Sauron. His corruption was complete around {{TA|3000}}.<ref name="AppTA"/> Saruman intended to seize the One Ring for himself, or at the very least stand as a vassal of the victorious Sauron.

===War of the Ring===
At about this time, in an attempt to control [[Rohan]], Saruman bought the allegiance of King [[Théoden]]'s chief advisor, [[Gríma]], who then counselled the ailing king to do nothing about the steady resurgence of Sauron's armies. Saruman and Gríma's treachery would have crippled Rohan's military might and allowed Sauron lordship of the kingdom, had not [[Gandalf]] interfered a year later and revealed to Théoden his right-hand man's true designs, healing the old king and revitalising his political and military rule.

He had sent spies to negotiate the purchase of "[[pipe-weed|leaf]]" from [[the Shire]], in preparation for the war, and also learn of any [[Hobbits]] who had departed recently in hopes of finding out who possessed [[the One Ring]].<ref name="UT10">{{UT|10}}, "Concerning Gandalf, Saruman, and the Shire"</ref>

Saruman did not reveal his true intentions until Gandalf presented him with the discovery and location of the One Ring. On [[10 July]], {{TA|3018}}, Gandalf arrived at Isengard.<ref name="AppGreat">{{App|Great}}</ref> Saruman demanded that Gandalf submit to Sauron or fail. Saruman then stood forth as '''Saruman of Many Colours''', and when Gandalf refused to join him or tell him of the Ring, he held him captive in Isengard.
[[File:The Lord of the Rings - The Two Towers - Gríma and Saruman.jpg|thumb|left|Saruman commanding his forces from Orthanc]]
It must have been during Gandalf's captivity in Orthanc that Saruman began to amass a massive army of [[Orcs]], [[Dunlendings]], and [[Uruk-hai]], since Gandalf came to an as yet un-destroyed Isengard. From the pinnacle of the tower Gandalf could see that Saruman was gathering hordes of orcs and [[wolves]] in his pits and forges.<ref name="FRCouncil">{{FR|Council}}</ref> One can speculate that if matters had developed a little more slowly, his puppet Gríma would have gained full control over Rohan, and the [[Rohirrim]] would have been enslaved or destroyed.

Saruman's plans likely failed because he, like Sauron, was forced to reveal his hand early by Gandalf's subsequent escape, and therefore he had little time to perfect his plans. As Saruman considered himself "unfallen", he honestly believed he had a chance of converting Gandalf to their side, and felt honestly betrayed by Gandalf when he was refused.

Gandalf later escaped, and so Saruman's treachery and service to Sauron became known to the rest of the White Council when Gandalf reported this during the subsequent [[Council of Elrond]].

Saruman soon also betrayed his master by lying to the [[Witch-king]] when he arrived at Isengard. Sauron had sent the [[Nazgûl]] searching for [[Bilbo Baggins|Baggins]], who had found the One Ring years before, and the Shire, his home. Saruman pretended to know nothing about the Shire. But the Lord of Minas Morgul and his company did not have the strength to assault the Ring of Isengard. Saruman told them that he believed Gandalf knew the whereabouts of the Ring and the Riders departed.

In September of {{TA|3018}} the Nazgûl captured one of his [[the Shire|Shire]] [[Squint-eyed Southerner|spies]] who told the [[Witch-king]] everything, betraying Saruman, and exposing the wizard's double treachery. They also seized some maps and information about the Shire and [[Baggins]].<ref name="UT10" /> Caught now as a traitor to the Free Peoples and unfaithful ally to Mordor, Saruman put all efforts into obtaining [[the One Ring]] for himself.<ref name="UTHunt">{{UT|Hunt}}</ref>

The failure to capture the Ring at [[Emyn Muil]] further ruined Saruman's plans, as he was revealed as a traitor to Sauron as well.
[[File:Ted Nasmith - The Wrath of the Ents.jpg|thumb|[[Ted Nasmith]] - ''The Wrath of the Ents'']]
Finding himself in a precarious position, Saruman could only hope to acquire the Ring or reassure Sauron of his loyalties. Therefore he implemented an aggressive strategy of attacking [[Rohan]], endeavouring to kill the King's son [[Théodred]], sending spies to waylay [[Frodo Baggins]] on his flight from the Shire, and dispatching raiding parties on likely routes a company of the Ring might take to Gondor. Ironically, one of these parties captured [[Peregrin Took]] and [[Meriadoc Brandybuck]] and transported them to [[Fangorn Forest]] in time to mobilise the [[Ents]]. Gandalf also suspected Saruman had found (and destroyed) the remains of [[Isildur]], who had worn the Ring before it had been lost.

Saruman's Shire network failed to capture Frodo Baggins, Gandalf rallied Rohan to victory, [[Éomer]] stopped his brutal, but only partially successful raiding party, and control of Isengard was lost to the [[Ents]]. Aware he was utterly defeated, Saruman briefly considered repenting for his deeds, but at the last moment could not go through with it. Whether he had hope he could escape, whether he was too proud to surrender to Gandalf, whether he thought his master would pardon him, Saruman refused to leave the confines of his fortress. Saruman made a final attempt to woo Théoden and Gandalf to his cause but failed: his staff was broken and he was expelled from the Order of the Istari.

Left out of the final stages of the War of the Ring and unable to be of any use to Sauron, he eventually managed to convince his captors, the Ents, into letting him leave Isengard, as apparently the magic of his voice still remained.

[[File:Ted Nasmith - Saruman is Overtaken.jpg|thumb|[[Ted Nasmith]] - ''Saruman is Overtaken'']]On their way to northern [[Dunland]], on [[28 August]]<Ref name=chief>{{App|Chief}}</ref> they were confronted by Gandalf, [[Celeborn]], [[Galadriel]] and the Hobbits, but they passed as travelling beggars as Saruman kicked Gríma to move on, and he exclaimed how he hated his lord. Gandalf told Gríma that he was free to leave him but he did not reply. As Saruman was considered powerless, there was little concern for his escape.<ref name=Partings>{{RK|Partings}}</ref> On [[22 September]]<ref name=chief/> they entered to the Shire, which his ally [[Lotho Sackville-Baggins]] (undisturbed by events elsewhere) had brought under control. He established himself in [[Hobbiton]] and spent his final days as a small-time thug lord whom his [[ruffians]] called '''''Sharkey''''', imposing a terror regime to avenge himself upon the peaceful Halflings. But even this operation fell apart after Frodo and [[Samwise Gamgee]] returned; he was eventually betrayed and killed by his own agent Gríma on [[3 November]], {{TA|3019}}.

Saruman, who was a Maia, had lost his shape with his "death". As a discorporate spirit, he should have been called to [[Mandos]], but a wind came from the [[West]] and pushed it away. Apparently his spirit was left naked, powerless and wandering in Middle-earth; perhaps not unlike his master after the One Ring was destroyed.

==Characteristics==
In appearance, Saruman was as an old man with black hair. At the end of the Third Age, his hair and beard had turned mostly white — he had only black hairs about his lips and ears. He was tall, his face was long, and his eyes were deep and dark. He would appear in a white cloak, a habit he later changed into a cloak that changed colours as he moved.

He was not actually a [[Men|Man]], or even an [[Elves|Elf]] (as Men often suspected), but a [[Maiar|Maia]] clothed in flesh — an [[Istari|Istar]] (see ''Origins'' above). As such, he was immortal and extremely powerful, yet had limits on how far these powers could be used. His two most salient powers were his knowledge and his voice. Saruman was, in a very real way, the junior brother of Sauron both having been Maia of Aulë, Valar of Smithcraft, in the very beginnings of time. The parallels between Sauron and Saruman in both character and actions are many.

=== Powers ===
Knowledge of the "deep arts" (or magic, such as it is in Middle-earth) was of particular interest to Saruman, especially when relating to power such as the [[Rings of Power]] and the far seeing ''[[palantíri]]''. He was also deeply learned in ancient lore regarding powerful kingdoms such as [[Númenor]], [[Gondor]], and [[Moria]].

His voice and speech were extremely convincing, more powerful than mere rhetoric. When he focused this power on a person or a group of people, he could sway their hearts, plant fears and sow lies as he pleased. According to the stature of the listener, this spell could last as long as the speech did, or it could take root in them and last forever. Saruman's voice was so powerful that he was able to convince the [[Witch-king]] that he knew nothing of the One-Ring or the Shire. His voice was not hypnotic, however, rather it was persuasive; and the real danger the voice posed to the listener was not them falling into a trance, but agreeing with it.

Aside from his voice, Saruman has other subtle abilities such as giving great speed and motivation to his orcs at a distance and setting his will against all those in his dominion that might oppose him. Aragorn takes note of this ability while tracking the party of orcs holding Merry and Pippin hostage. Saruman also seems to be able to move around totally unheard by others, as there are numerous examples of him using this ability. Several examples include his sneaking up on [[Aragorn]], [[Gimli]] and [[Legolas]]'s camp in [[The Riders of Rohan]], his wholly unheard entrance in [[The Voice of Saruman]] and his quiet but sudden appearance to the hobbits in [[The Scouring of the Shire]].

Other powers include knowledge of machinery and chemistry, probably separable from explicit magic (for instance, the "blasting fire" employed by his [[Uruk-hai]] army in the battle of [[Helm's Deep]], was some kind of chemical explosive). Machinery and engines characterised both his fortified [[Isengard]] and his altered [[the Shire|Shire]] arenas of influence. In this, he sought to emulate, or even surpass his master, [[Sauron]]. This inclination was constitutional in them both from the very beginning.

His science also extended to biological areas. He is believed to have crossbred Men and Orcs, creating a new race of Orcs unafraid of daylight, the dreaded Uruk-hai, a major improvement on Sauron's thralls who hated daylight. His mannish spies in [[Bree]] were said to have Orc blood, giving them heightened senses over ordinary men. He also employed scavenger birds in his service, although this might also be attributed to [[Radagast]] the Brown, ordering them to report to [[Orthanc]], Saruman's stronghold.

Being regarded as more powerful than [[Gandalf]] (at least before Gandalf's "rebirth"), it's fair to assume he would also wield explicit magic similar to Gandalf, such as artificial light, locking spells, creating fire, etc.

Saruman, walking on the same ruinous path as Sauron, attempted to forge for himself a Ring of Power, much like his master had. This he wore during the War of the Ring which he revealed when he called himself "Saruman the Ring-maker". He had great knowledge and lore of the magic rings created by Sauron and by the Elven-smiths, though at this time the full art of ring-making was lost and known only to his master and so Saruman's knowledge of the craft was incomplete. It is assumed that Saruman's Ring was the equivalent of one of the lesser rings in power and any details of this power is not mentioned. It is also assumed that it too lost its power, if it had any, when the One Ring was destroyed, since Saruman's craft of ring-making was still based on Sauron's. When Gandalf was given Narya, the Ring of Fire, Saruman learned of the gift and resented it. This may be another reason why Saruman desired to have a ring of his own.

===Personality===
Saruman resembled Gandalf not only in appearance, but originally also somewhat in deportment, but unlike Gandalf, Saruman was proud, even haughty. He saw himself as the most powerful of the Istari, expressing clear contempt for Radagast the Brown, patronising tolerance of The Wise and Elves, and sheer disdain for lesser men. Saruman was no fool (though he saw Radagast as one); he realised Gandalf's power, and eventually came to see him as an equal, and later as a superior, much to his distress. He became jealous of Gandalf, eventually convincing himself that Gandalf was scheming against him, which justified his own scheming against Gandalf and the rest of the White Council, and the people of Middle-earth as well. Saruman's ultimate agenda in the end was not very different at all from Sauron's.

Saruman likely was true to his mission in the beginning, and actually believed in working to stop the Darkness, but his pride and later arrogance (as well as his jealousy towards Gandalf and corruption by Sauron) turned him into a traitor to the cause he had once served. Saruman's betrayal was not sudden, but slowly grew over time as Sauron used Saruman's lust for power, admiration of strength and envy as tools of control, until at last Saruman had convinced himself that he could not have taken any other path and that it was too late now to repent. To the last Saruman only believed in his own counsel and the deceptive words of Sauron. This false beliefs kept him from taking his last chance at redemption, and because he must have realised this after Gandalf's truly generous terms he only became more bitter and filled with the rage of failure, blaming Gandalf more than anyone else for his downfall.

==Politics==

===Men===
Saruman "went mostly among men". He always sought power, and it lay in the hands of the kingdoms of Men.

No records speak of his earliest journeys into the east; after his return he became a servant of [[Gondor]], receiving the keys to Orthanc from Beren as its warden. When Gondor weakened, he claimed Orthanc for his own without any formal declaration (or objection from Gondor), yet remained nominally an ally of Gondor and of Rohan.

When he turned to treachery, Saruman employed men mainly from [[Dunland]], and agents from other lands, turning old grudges into fuel for new hatred. The Dunlendings were enticed with the old stories that they had once lived in [[Calenardhon]] before the ''Strawheads''. The Dunlendings became his soldiers and it also seems probable that he used some of them to create [[Half-orcs]].

Gríma Wormtongue played a vital role in Saruman's plans: with Saruman's counsel Gríma began to weaken the king, estranging him from his other counsellors and even his own kin, until Gríma had in effect become the leader of Rohan.

===Elves===
Saruman was once on good terms with the Elves, and was voted in as the leader of the White Council, a group of Elves and Istari united against Sauron.

Saruman knew that Gandalf had been given the third Elvish ring [[Narya]] by [[Círdan]] the Shipwright. This nurtured his jealousy of Gandalf and his resentment towards the Elves.

Saruman had little use for, or interest in, the Elves, who were declining and their lands were few and secretive; although they wielded marvellous powers and two Rings of Power, they were not useful nor accessible for Saruman's ambitions. Also, they succumbed less easily than other races to manipulation.

Even though Isengard lay very close to [[Lothlórien]], Saruman had very little or no contact with it. Saruman never trusted [[Galadriel]] and he accused her of scheming for Gandalf at his expense.<ref name=Partings/>

===Orcs===
Saruman drew his original strength of Orcs from tribes in the [[Misty Mountains]], and perhaps from Moria Orcs. He made use of [[Wargs|Warg]]-mounted Orcs for raids against Rohan.

He also bred [[Orcs of Isengard|Orcs]] in the pits of Isengard, eventually creating crossbreeds of Orcs and Men (probably [[Dunlendings]] or [[Bree-men]]). This programme apparently also involved feeding these greater Orcs Man-flesh as a treat.

His [[Uruk-hai]] legions displayed great discipline and fierce loyalty, in addition to the other improvements such as height, strength, endurance and resistance to sunlight. There also appears to have been middle stages between Men and the Uruk-hai, Men with varying degrees of Orkish appearance such as [[Half-orcs]] and [[Goblin-men]]. These were reported by Pippin and Merry to have been part of Saruman's regular army, but were not Uruk-hai, since the hobbits would have recognised these from their earlier capture.

Saruman's servants called him "[[Sharkey]]" both in Isengard and later in the Shire.

===Ents/Trees===
Saruman made contact with the Ents in [[Fangorn Forest]] shortly after he settled in [[Isengard]]. The oldest of the Ents, [[Treebeard]] received him and gave him free access to the forest.

Saruman also consulted with Treebeard, learning much old lore that the Ents would have remembered from ancient times. Saruman did not return this favour, but only listened.

The Ents saw Saruman's treachery early, and became very concerned, primarily with Saruman's Orcs felling trees on the edge of Fangorn for use in the furnaces of Isengard and sometimes for no reason at all.

The Ents also appear to have had a sense of order, how things should be, that Saruman encroached upon. The crossbreeding of Men and Orcs particularly alarmed them, out of proportion to other concerns enemies of Saruman might have had. Also alarming was the pure fact of his treachery — the Istari were supposed to have a special responsibility.

Saruman used the Ents and the Fangorn forest without concern for the consequences. He clearly misjudged the Ents' abilities and will to act. This might not have been as incautious as it seemed, since major contributing factors to the Ent's actions were advice and requests from Gandalf, and concern about the rising power of Sauron (and their wish to support the front-line troops of the war, Rohan and Gondor).

Saruman clearly had the ability to understand the minds of the Ents when he found it useful. He managed to talk Treebeard into setting him free from Orthanc by pushing just the right buttons — Ents dislike the concept of caging up any creature.

===Hobbits===
The race of [[Hobbits]] and their lands seemed too insignificant to interest Saruman: until he took notice of Gandalf's special concern for them. Studying Gandalf made him focus gradually more and more on the Hobbits and The Shire. For a period he actually travelled there in secret, mapping out the lands. Gandalf was aware of this, but at this point only amused.

He began smoking pipe-weed (a habit of the Hobbits that Gandalf had picked up), also in secret. His demand for tobacco opened up trading between The Shire and Isengard, and the power his money could wield there and the corruption it could cause began to fascinate him. Some of his agents went in secret, and some were known to Gandalf and the [[Rangers of the North|Rangers]].

His anger towards the Hobbits may possibly stem from the attention Gandalf showed them. It certainly strengthened immensely when he discovered that the Hobbits had "conspired" with Gandalf to keep [[the One Ring]] from him.

This, and the sudden urgency caused by the [[Nazgûl|Ringwraiths]]' hunt for the Ring-bearer from The Shire to Rivendell, made him increase his activity in the area, leading to a build-up of power that would lead to virtual conquest of The Shire.

He might also later have blamed the ruin of Isengard by the Ents on [[Peregrin Took]] and [[Meriadoc Brandybuck]], who clearly catalysed events.

This all came together when Saruman escaped from the Ents and retired to The Shire and his thug regime in place there. It appears he immediately switched the focus of this operation to wanton destruction: pollution, murder, fire, chopping down trees for no reason, a last blow against Hobbits and Gandalf.

At his final utter defeat by [[Battle of Bywater|a Hobbit uprising]], his life was spared even when he tried to assassinate [[Frodo Baggins]]. At this moment he actually conceded a short-lived respect to Frodo.

===Valar/Maiar/Wizards===
Saruman was supposedly eager to go to Middle-earth, against Manwë's counsel. After his 'death' he was apparently barred from returning to Valinor, and therefore was denied reincarnation and condemned to waft away and disappear like so much smoke. In his corrupt state, Saruman sought power and the imposing of order in Middle-earth by any means necessary, even if it meant betraying the mission he was entrusted with.

Sauron, in origin a Maia of Aulë like Saruman, awed and frightened him. During the height of his arrogance Saruman thought he could rival Sauron, but in the end he found himself meddling with a spirit of far greater power and knowledge than himself. Caught peering into the ''palantír'' he was seduced by Sauron to his allegiance, no longer opposing (and perhaps even desiring) his victory. Saruman sought to become a lieutenant almost-equal to his master and receive his favor in triumph, yet he was also a duplicitous servant by actively coveting the One Ring. After the failed attempt through the ambush at Amon Hen, Saruman understood the only paths ahead of him were to either show his master faith by crippling Rohan, hoping to at the very least be spared, or come to ruin and torment.

Saruman grudgingly brought with him Radagast as a companion from Valinor, at the request of [[Yavanna]], yet still managed to arrive alone, and first. Shortly after, he went into the East with the two [[Blue Wizards]], and later returned alone. There he may have wrought many great works to diminish the influence of the Enemy or searched for lore to help him in his schemes.

Radagast, even though Saruman scorned him, served both Gandalf and Saruman very usefully (and wholly unintentionally, as he admitted "he had just the wit to play the part I set him", that of persuading Gandalf to come to Isengard). Radagast also sent birds to Saruman and Gandalf to report the different happenings in Middle-earth.

Saruman had always been jealous of Gandalf, and knew that he was keeping secrets from him, such as his suspicion about [[The One Ring|Bilbo's Ring]] and [[Narya]], secret. Gandalf also suspected Saruman of plotting to gain the One Ring for himself, and hinted at this at a meeting of the White Council. Gandalf blew nine small smoke rings and one great one that wavered a bit, seeming almost palpable, and yet blew away, symbolising (almost prophetic of) Saruman's failure in achieving the One. In general, Saruman must have viewed Gandalf as his only peer, and as such to be feared and treated with (although not necessarily shown) respect. He always kept a watchful eye open for Gandalf's doings, and actually picked up the habit of smoking pipe-weed by sending out spies tailing Gandalf to the Shire. After revealing his fealty to Mordor and his desire for the Ring, Saruman offered Gandalf the chance to join with Sauron, or perhaps get the One for themselves. Ultimately, certain he Gandalf could be forced to tell of the Ring's whereabouts or that he could help Sauron win, he came to underestimate Gandalf and think little of his interventions.

Nevertheless, Saruman exercised more power than Gandalf, even with the ring Narya, as became clear when he placed Gandalf under arrest at the pinnacle of Orthanc. The text does not make it clear whether Saruman lost power or whether Gandalf gained power, but when Gandalf returned as "Gandalf [[the White]]", he could summon Saruman at his will, forcibly keep him in his presence, and finally break Saruman's staff (with whatever implications that might have had for Saruman's powers).

Despite his apparent disdain for the Grey Pilgrim, Saruman several times came very close to setting aside his pride and to asking Gandalf for pity and help. The closest call came when the [[Nazgûl|Ringwraiths]] (on their way to the Shire) arrived at Isengard while Gandalf still remained in captivity there. Saruman, realising he might have already lost Sauron's trust, actually went to seek Gandalf's pardon, only to find his erstwhile captive missing from the top of Orthanc.

===Animals===
Saruman had control over many birds, probably having been taught to tame them by Radagast. Crebain spied for him and brought him news. In addition, the Orcs Saruman took in his armies had amongst them wild [[wolves]] and even [[Wargs]], a sort of demonic cousin of the former.

==Etymology==
''Saruman'' is a [[Mannish]] translation of [[Quenya]] ''[[Curumo]]'', his original name in [[Valinor]] as a Maia; and [[Sindarin]] ''[[Curunír]]'' which is supposedly the same name (with the ending ''[[dîr|-ndîr]]'' "man"). All names mean "Skilled Man" or "Cunning One" (root ''[[curu]]'' "skill").<ref name=RC81>{{HM|RC}}, p. 81</ref><ref>{{webcite|author=[[Helge Fauskanger]]|articleurl=http://folk.uib.no/hnohf/quen-eng.htm|articlename=Quettaparma Quenyallo|website=Arda}}</ref><ref>{{webcite|author=[[Didier Willis]], ed.|articleurl=http://www.jrrvf.com/hisweloke/sindar/online/sindar/dict-sd-en.html|articlename=Hiswelókë's Sindarin dictionary|website=[http://www.jrrvf.com/hisweloke/ Hiswelókë]}}</ref>

''Saruman'' is derived from [[Old English]]: the root word ''searu'' means "device, design, contrivance, art" and the whole name means "man of skill".<ref name=RC81/>

His name in [[Sindarin]] was ''Curunír 'Lân''.<ref name=Istari/>

==Other versions of the legendarium==
In the earlier versions of ''The Lord of the Rings'', Saruman was sketched merely as Sauron's fawning servant, while the army he musters is not in rivalry of Mordor's but from the beginning in his new master's employ. In other drafts, the treacherous wizard hands Gandalf over to the evil [[Giants|Giant]] Treebeard or betrays him to the Black Riders. <ref>{{TI|VII}}</ref>

Saruman's older names in these drafts were Sarumond and Saramund,<ref name=rc>{{HM|RC}}, p. xxiii</ref> containing the english term ''mund'' "hand".

==Inspiration==
Saruman was invented and introduced in the story in order to explain Gandalf's absence in the first part of ''The Lord of the Rings'', replacing Treebeard as the wizard's captor. <ref name=rc/>

As a scholar, Tolkien would also have been well aware of the name of a similarly-named historic 'head of his order', Jaruman.

==Portrayal in adaptations==
{{Gallery
|title=Saruman in adaptations
|height=150
|width=250
|File:The Lord of the Rings (1978 film) - Saruman.jpg|Saruman in [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]
|lines=2
|File:The Lord of the Rings (film series) - Saruman using Palantír.jpg|[[Christopher Lee]] as Saruman in [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (film series)]]
|File:LOTRO-Rise of Isengard-Saruman-1.png|Saruman in ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]''
|File:Lego - Saruman minifigure.jpg|Saruman in [[Lego]] form
}}

===Films===
'''1978: [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]:'''
:[[Fraser Kerr]] provided the voice of Saruman. From early on in the production, it was decided that "Saruman" and "Sauron" sounded too much alike, and might confuse viewers. On concept art, Saruman is called "Ruman",<ref>[http://www.ralphbakshi.com/gallery/displayimage.php?album=5&pos=69 1978 - The Lord of the Rings Gallery] at [http://www.ralphbakshi.com Ralphbakshi.com] (accessed 26 March 2011)</ref> but prior to recording, this was changed to "Aruman". However, during recording, it was again changed, to "Saruman". Because of this late change, several instances of "Aruman" remain in the finished film.

'''2001-03: [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (film series)]]:'''
:Saruman was played by [[Christopher Lee]]. Saruman's depiction in the series is more akin to the early drafts, in that he is a more willing and trustworthy servant of Sauron (though he still instructs [[Lurtz]] to bring him the hobbits carrying "something of great value"). The films did not include the [[Scouring of the Shire]], so Saruman's last appearance was in Isengard, during his encounter with Gandalf and Théoden. In the [[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (extended edition)|extended edition of ''The Return of the King'']], Gríma stabs Saruman in the back, causing him to fall on a spiked wheel below the tower of Orthanc.

'''2012-14: [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'' (film series)]]:'''
:[[Christopher Lee]] reprised his role as Saruman, although the character does not appear in the book.<ref name="TelegraphCasting">{{webcite|articleurl=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/film/film-news/8311016/Christopher-Lee-will-star-in-the-Hobbit-prequel.html|articlename=Christopher Lee will star in the Hobbit prequel|dated=08-Feb-2011|website=[http://www.telegraph.co.uk/ The Telegraph]|accessed=21-Dec-2011}}</ref> He appears as part of the [[White Council]] alongside [[Gandalf]], [[Galadriel]] and [[Elrond]]. He is sceptical about the appearance of a [[Sauron#Sauron's Return|Necromancer]] in [[Dol Guldur]]. However, when he participates in the [[attack on Dol Guldur]], he sees for himself that Sauron has indeed returned. After the skirmish, he appears shaken by the display of Sauron's power, but claims he will take it upon himself to keep an eye on the Dark Lord and pretends to care for Lady Galadriel's weakened state.

===Television===
'''1993: [[Hobitit|''Hobitit'']]:'''
:Saruman was played by actor Mikko Kivinen. He appears only in episode "Vanha metsä" ("Old Forest").

===Radio series===
'''1955: [[The Lord of the Rings (1955 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1955 radio series)]]:'''
:The voice of Saruman is provided by [[Robert Farquharson]].

'''1979: [[The Lord of the Rings (1979 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1979 radio series)]]:'''
:The voice of Saruman is provided by [[James Arrington]].

'''1981: [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1981 radio series)]]:'''
:[[Peter Howell]] played Saruman. Because the series follows a chronological timeline rather than the flashbacks of the books, Saruman's betrayal is brought out much sooner than in the book. Excerpts from [[The Hunt for the Ring]] are dramatised to flesh out Gandalf's escape from Isengard, and the Nazgul's pursuit. In the final episode Saruman's death at the hands of Wormtongue at Bag End is included.

'''1992: [[Der Herr der Ringe (1992 German radio series)|''Der Herr der Ringe'' (1992 German radio series)]]:'''
:Saruman is played by Manfred Steffen.

'''2001-2003: [[Pán prsteňov (2001-2003 Slovak radio series)|''Pán prsteňov'' (2001-2003 Slovak radio series)]]:'''
:The voice of Saruman is provided by Andrej Hryc. Saruman appears in all three series (seasons) of this adaptation, with his most prominent appearances in the episodes covering ''The Two Towers''.

===Games===
'''2003: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King'' (video game)]]:'''
:Though Christopher Lee provided the voice of Saruman for many scenes, the only visual appearance of the Wizard of from re-used movie clips, his voice is played over several Gandalf's actions though.

'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War of the Ring]]'':'''
:Saruman is one of the "Hero" units of the Servants of Sauron, the game also depicts his creation of the Uruk-hai.

'''2004: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth]]'':'''
:Saruman is the main "Hero" unit of Isengard faction, the evil campaign follows his despoilment of both Isengard and the Fangorn Forest, war on Rohan and later conquest of the outlying lands.

'''2006: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth II]]'':'''
:Saruman is still the main "Hero" unit of Isengard faction, but plays no role in the storyline.

'''2011: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard]]'':'''

: Through frequently referred to in-game since 2007, Saruman made no visual appearance until 2011 and the ''Rise of Isengard'' expansion. Many quests in the game display the stretch of the White Hand - Saruman's minions are present in Shire as early as {{TA|3018}}, as well as [[Bree-land]], [[Lone-lands]], [[Eregion]], [[Enedwaith]], [[Dunland]], [[Gap of Rohan]], outskirts of the [[Fangorn Forest]] and even [[Moria]].
:In the storyline of ''Rise of Isengard'' Saruman first appears buying the loyalties of the Dunlending clans, bringing with him riches and maintaining a friendly appearance. He also still keeps his affairs in Rohan private, to the point that when a Rohirrim questions the desolation of [[Nan Curunír]] and the presence of Trolls in Isengard, the Wizard manages to use his voice to convince him that it was all for the good cause. At one point, traitorous Dunlendings capture the player and send him to Saruman as a gift - once again the Wizard maintains a friendly and noble appearance, trying to discern the location of The Ring, before the player escapes.
:A major storyline is derived from a single line in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', where Saruman calls himself "Ring-forger". Long having researched the Rings of Power, Saruman sends his minions to pillage what remains of Ring-Forges of Eregion, looking for any knowledge of ancient Elven smiths that have remained here. Using that lore, he constructs a massive Ring-Forge under Isengard, where he creates five lesser rings and a master one to command them. He keeps the master ring to himself and gives the other to his most trusted lieutenants, though none of the mortals are prepared for it and are turned into monstrosities. A large forces of players defeats them one by one, reclaiming lesser rings and later uses those rings to turn upon the master one. In the ensuing fight Saruman's ring is destroyed shortly before the Battle of Hornburg, and with it the lesser ones lose their power.

'''2014: [[Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor]]:'''
:Voiced by [[Roger Jackson]], Saruman appears in this game as a non-playable character. The game's protagonist, Talion, finds various artefacts that reveal that Saruman's spies are active within the borders of [[Mordor]] in the years between ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]''. It is later revealed that Saruman was controlling Queen Marwen of the [[Nurnen]] to hinder Sauron while bringing about the destruction of the men of [[Nurn]].

==See also==
* [[:Category:Images of Saruman|Images of Saruman]]

{{References}}

{{Ainur}}
{{hobbitfilms}}
[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]
[[Category:Characters in The Silmarillion]]
[[Category:Maiar]]
[[Category:Old English names]]
[[Category:Third Age characters]]
[[Category:Wizards]]
[[Category:Servants of Sauron]]

[[de:Saruman]]
[[fr:/encyclo/personnages/ainur/maiar/istari/saruman]]
[[fi:Saruman]]

Saruman

2021-09-26T18:31:16Z

Protospace: /* Early history */

{{sources}}
{{maiar infobox
| name=Saruman
| image=[[File:John Howe - Saruman.jpg|250px]]
| caption="Saruman" by [[John Howe]]
| pronun=
| othernames=Curumo, Curunír, [[the White]], Ring-maker, Of many colours, [[Sharkey]]
| titles=
| position=Head of the [[White Council]]
| location=[[Orthanc]]
| affiliation=[[Aulë]] [[Istari]] (Wizards) [[White Council]] [[Sauron]]
| language=
| birth=
| birthlocation=
| rule=
| death=[[3 November]] {{TA|3019}}
| deathlocation=[[Hobbiton]]
| age=
| notablefor=
| house=
| parentage=
| siblings=
| spouse=
| children=
| gender=Male
| height=Tall
| hair=White with strands of black<ref name="Voice">{{TT|Voice}}</ref>
| eyes=
| clothing=White robes, shimmering with many colours
| weapons=Staff Knife
| steed=
}}
{{pronounce|Quenya - Curumo.mp3|Gilgamesh}}
{{quote|[Saruman] is great among the Wise. He is the chief of my order and the head of the Council. His knowledge is deep, but his pride has grown with it, and he takes ill any meddling. The lore of the Elven-rings, great and small, is his province. He has long studied it, seeking the lost secrets of their making (....)|[[Gandalf]], ''[[The Shadow of the Past]]''}}
'''Saruman the White''' ([[Third Age]] c. 1000 – 3019, existed in [[Middle-earth]] for 2019 years) was the first of the order of [[Wizards]] (or ''Istari'') who came to Middle-earth as Emissaries of the [[Valar]] in the [[Third Age]]. He was the leader of the [[White Council]]. In [[Sindarin]] his name was '''Curunír''', which meant "Man of Skill".

==History==
===Early history===
As a [[Maia]], Saruman was created by [[Ilúvatar]] before the [[Music of the Ainur]].<ref name="Ainu">{{S|Ainu}}</ref> In his early days in [[Valinor]], he went by the name ''[[Curumo]]''.<ref>{{UT|Istari}}, note 6</ref> Like [[Sauron]], he was a powerful Maiar of [[Aulë]].<ref>{{S|Vala}}</ref>

After the Valar discovered the primeval [[Elves]] at [[Cuiviénen]], Curumo was sent with several other Maiar to guard the Elves from the forces of [[Melkor]]. The Elves called him ''[[Tarindor]]''. It is unclear how long he remained or if he accompanied the [[Eldar]] on the [[Great Journey]].<ref name=Cuv>{{NM|P1xiii}}, p. 95</ref>

===Return to Middle-earth===
After the defeat of Morgoth, the Valar grew concerned about the rising power of Sauron in Middle-earth. In [[Valinor]], a council was called by [[Manwë]], where it was decided to send Maiar as emissaries to Middle-earth to help the [[Free Peoples]] challenge Sauron. The council likely met in the middle of the Second Age, shortly after the creation of the [[Rings of Power]]. The council determined that these emissaries (later known as the [[Istari]] or Wizards) should be "mighty, peers of Sauron, yet [they should] forgo might, and clothe themselves in flesh so as to treat on equality and win the trust of Elves and Men."<ref name=Istari>{{UT|Istari}}</ref>{{rp|393}} Curumo was sent to the council by Aulë, and he volunteered to travel to Middle-earth as one of these emissaries; he was appointed as the first Istar and became the chief their Order.<ref name=Istari />{{rp|389, 394}}

Even before arriving in Middle-earth, Curumo begrudged his peers among the Istari. ''[[Gandalf|Olórin]]'' (later Gandalf), who did not wish to travel to Middle-earth, was commanded by Manwë to go as the third Istar. Saruman's jealousy of Gandalf began here, when [[Varda]] said of Gandalf that he was "not the third". Saruman was charged to take [[Aiwendil]] (later Radagast) with him to please [[Yavanna]], which he did not wish to do, and this led to his contempt for the latter Wizard.<ref name=Istari />{{rp|393}}

In Middle-earth, Curomo became known in [[Sindarin]] as ''[[Curunír]]'' and in [[Westron]] by his most common name, ''Saruman''. Like the other Wizards, his [[fana]] took the appearance of an old man. He had raven hairand was robed in white.<ref name=Istari />{{rp|393}}

Saruman and others of the Istari arrived in a ship at [[Mithlond]] (the [[Grey Havens]]) in [[Lindon]] around the year 1000 of the [[Third Age]].<ref name=Istari />At the time of their arrival, their origin, nature, purpose, and true names were a secret to nearly everyone in Middle-earth. Having witnessed their arrival, [[Círdan]] alone knew the truth of their identity and origin. He chose to give [[Narya]], the Red Ring, to Gandalf to aid him in his mission.<ref name="AppTA"/> Círdan told only [[Galadriel]] and [[Elrond]] of the true origins of the Istari.<ref name="SV"/> After a time, Saruman learned of Círdan's gift and begrudged it; this heightened the hidden ill-will that he bore towards Gandalf.<ref name=Istari/>

Shortly after arriving, Saruman travelled into the [[East]] of Middle-earth, as did the two [[Blue Wizards]]. After one and a half millennia he returned to the West, just as Sauron's power was growing again in [[Dol Guldur]].

===Chief of the White Council===
[[File:Angus McBride - Saruman.gif|thumb|[[Angus McBride]] - ''Saruman'']]
When the [[White Council]] was formed around {{TA|2463}}<ref name="AppTA"/>, Saruman was appointed its leader. Even then, he had begun to sense the resurgence of Sauron and to envy and desire his power, and especially his [[The One Ring|One Ring]]. Coincidentally, in that same year the One Ring was found by the creature [[Gollum]]<ref name="AppTA"/>, drawing the [[Dark Lord]] closer to the conflict that would eventually prove Saruman's undoing.

During this period, Saurman spent years in [[Minas Tirith]] examining its archives. It is possible that there he surmised that a [[Palantíri|''palantír'']] would still be located in [[Orthanc]], the tower of [[Isengard]].<ref>{{UT|Palantiri}}</ref> He offered to make Isengard his home and to command the defences of the West. This was welcomed by King [[Fréaláf]] of [[Rohan]] and [[Ruling Steward|Steward]] [[Beren (Steward of Gondor)|Beren]] of [[Gondor]] alike. In {{TA|2759}}, Saruman was given the [[Key of Orthanc]] in the ring of [[Isengard]] his abode, hoping that he would prove an important ally.<ref name="SV">{{S|V}}</ref><Ref name=stew>{{App|Stewards}}</ref> There he became important in the defence of the free lands of the West. In Orthanc he came upon the [[Orthanc-stone]], one of the seven seeing stones, but kept it secret and hidden, particularly from the White Council. He would later betray the Council by concealing his use of it.

In {{TA|2851}}, the White Council met and Gandalf revealed that the evil presence in Dol Guldur was indeed Sauron and that he had returned, and urged an attack there. Saruman however believed that Sauron would be useful in his quest: allowing Sauron to build up his strength, the One Ring would reveal itself, and Saruman hoped to have sufficient strength to seize it first himself until that event. With this strategy in mind, Saruman overruled Gandalf. It soon became clear that Saruman desired to possess [[the One Ring]] himself.<ref name="AppTA">{{App|TA}}</ref>

He soon found that Sauron had more knowledge of the possible location of the One Ring than he expected, and in {{TA|2941}} he finally consented to an [[Attack on Dol Guldur]] against Sauron at which point Sauron retreated to [[Mordor]].
[[File:Angus McBride - Dol Guldur.jpg|thumb|left|Angus McBride - ''Dol Guldur'']]
In {{TA|2953}}, the [[Wise]] gathered once more to debate about the [[Rings of Power]]. Saruman quieted the Council claiming to have the knowledge that the One Ring was lost forever in the [[Belegaer]]. Following their final meeting (and the death of [[Turgon (Steward of Gondor)|Steward Turgon]]), Saruman took Isengard for his own and fortified it.<Ref name=stew/> Saruman, jealous and afraid of Gandalf, set spies to watch all his movements; thus he discovered the existence of the [[Shire]] and noted Gandalf's interest in it, and started sending agents in [[Bree]] and the [[Southfarthing]].<ref name="AppTA"/> As [[Lord of Isengard]], Saruman began to bring trouble to Rohan by aiding its enemies.<ref name="AppMark">{{App|Mark}}</ref> But the Wise were already suspicious about him; [[Aragorn]] tried to advice Steward [[Ecthelion II]] to not trust Saruman for his help against [[Sauron]].<Ref name=stew/>

Sauron had declared himself openly in Mordor; he established contact with Saruman through the [[Ithil-stone]] his minions had captured from [[Minas Ithil]]. Through his jealousy towards Gandalf and his ever-growing pride and arrogance, and through the use of the ''palantír'' was dominated by Sauron, becoming a servant of his will. Using either the knowledge of his new master or lore of lost [[Eregion]], Saruman crafted his own lesser ring and sought to emulate Sauron. His corruption was complete around {{TA|3000}}.<ref name="AppTA"/> Saruman intended to seize the One Ring for himself, or at the very least stand as a vassal of the victorious Sauron.

===War of the Ring===
At about this time, in an attempt to control [[Rohan]], Saruman bought the allegiance of King [[Théoden]]'s chief advisor, [[Gríma]], who then counselled the ailing king to do nothing about the steady resurgence of Sauron's armies. Saruman and Gríma's treachery would have crippled Rohan's military might and allowed Sauron lordship of the kingdom, had not [[Gandalf]] interfered a year later and revealed to Théoden his right-hand man's true designs, healing the old king and revitalising his political and military rule.

He had sent spies to negotiate the purchase of "[[pipe-weed|leaf]]" from [[the Shire]], in preparation for the war, and also learn of any [[Hobbits]] who had departed recently in hopes of finding out who possessed [[the One Ring]].<ref name="UT10">{{UT|10}}, "Concerning Gandalf, Saruman, and the Shire"</ref>

Saruman did not reveal his true intentions until Gandalf presented him with the discovery and location of the One Ring. On [[10 July]], {{TA|3018}}, Gandalf arrived at Isengard.<ref name="AppGreat">{{App|Great}}</ref> Saruman demanded that Gandalf submit to Sauron or fail. Saruman then stood forth as '''Saruman of Many Colours''', and when Gandalf refused to join him or tell him of the Ring, he held him captive in Isengard.
[[File:The Lord of the Rings - The Two Towers - Gríma and Saruman.jpg|thumb|left|Saruman commanding his forces from Orthanc]]
It must have been during Gandalf's captivity in Orthanc that Saruman began to amass a massive army of [[Orcs]], [[Dunlendings]], and [[Uruk-hai]], since Gandalf came to an as yet un-destroyed Isengard. From the pinnacle of the tower Gandalf could see that Saruman was gathering hordes of orcs and [[wolves]] in his pits and forges.<ref name="FRCouncil">{{FR|Council}}</ref> One can speculate that if matters had developed a little more slowly, his puppet Gríma would have gained full control over Rohan, and the [[Rohirrim]] would have been enslaved or destroyed.

Saruman's plans likely failed because he, like Sauron, was forced to reveal his hand early by Gandalf's subsequent escape, and therefore he had little time to perfect his plans. As Saruman considered himself "unfallen", he honestly believed he had a chance of converting Gandalf to their side, and felt honestly betrayed by Gandalf when he was refused.

Gandalf later escaped, and so Saruman's treachery and service to Sauron became known to the rest of the White Council when Gandalf reported this during the subsequent [[Council of Elrond]].

Saruman soon also betrayed his master by lying to the [[Witch-king]] when he arrived at Isengard. Sauron had sent the [[Nazgûl]] searching for [[Bilbo Baggins|Baggins]], who had found the One Ring years before, and the Shire, his home. Saruman pretended to know nothing about the Shire. But the Lord of Minas Morgul and his company did not have the strength to assault the Ring of Isengard. Saruman told them that he believed Gandalf knew the whereabouts of the Ring and the Riders departed.

In September of {{TA|3018}} the Nazgûl captured one of his [[the Shire|Shire]] [[Squint-eyed Southerner|spies]] who told the [[Witch-king]] everything, betraying Saruman, and exposing the wizard's double treachery. They also seized some maps and information about the Shire and [[Baggins]].<ref name="UT10" /> Caught now as a traitor to the Free Peoples and unfaithful ally to Mordor, Saruman put all efforts into obtaining [[the One Ring]] for himself.<ref name="UTHunt">{{UT|Hunt}}</ref>

The failure to capture the Ring at [[Emyn Muil]] further ruined Saruman's plans, as he was revealed as a traitor to Sauron as well.
[[File:Ted Nasmith - The Wrath of the Ents.jpg|thumb|[[Ted Nasmith]] - ''The Wrath of the Ents'']]
Finding himself in a precarious position, Saruman could only hope to acquire the Ring or reassure Sauron of his loyalties. Therefore he implemented an aggressive strategy of attacking [[Rohan]], endeavouring to kill the King's son [[Théodred]], sending spies to waylay [[Frodo Baggins]] on his flight from the Shire, and dispatching raiding parties on likely routes a company of the Ring might take to Gondor. Ironically, one of these parties captured [[Peregrin Took]] and [[Meriadoc Brandybuck]] and transported them to [[Fangorn Forest]] in time to mobilise the [[Ents]]. Gandalf also suspected Saruman had found (and destroyed) the remains of [[Isildur]], who had worn the Ring before it had been lost.

Saruman's Shire network failed to capture Frodo Baggins, Gandalf rallied Rohan to victory, [[Éomer]] stopped his brutal, but only partially successful raiding party, and control of Isengard was lost to the [[Ents]]. Aware he was utterly defeated, Saruman briefly considered repenting for his deeds, but at the last moment could not go through with it. Whether he had hope he could escape, whether he was too proud to surrender to Gandalf, whether he thought his master would pardon him, Saruman refused to leave the confines of his fortress. Saruman made a final attempt to woo Théoden and Gandalf to his cause but failed: his staff was broken and he was expelled from the Order of the Istari.

Left out of the final stages of the War of the Ring and unable to be of any use to Sauron, he eventually managed to convince his captors, the Ents, into letting him leave Isengard, as apparently the magic of his voice still remained.

[[File:Ted Nasmith - Saruman is Overtaken.jpg|thumb|[[Ted Nasmith]] - ''Saruman is Overtaken'']]On their way to northern [[Dunland]], on [[28 August]]<Ref name=chief>{{App|Chief}}</ref> they were confronted by Gandalf, [[Celeborn]], [[Galadriel]] and the Hobbits, but they passed as travelling beggars as Saruman kicked Gríma to move on, and he exclaimed how he hated his lord. Gandalf told Gríma that he was free to leave him but he did not reply. As Saruman was considered powerless, there was little concern for his escape.<ref name=Partings>{{RK|Partings}}</ref> On [[22 September]]<ref name=chief/> they entered to the Shire, which his ally [[Lotho Sackville-Baggins]] (undisturbed by events elsewhere) had brought under control. He established himself in [[Hobbiton]] and spent his final days as a small-time thug lord whom his [[ruffians]] called '''''Sharkey''''', imposing a terror regime to avenge himself upon the peaceful Halflings. But even this operation fell apart after Frodo and [[Samwise Gamgee]] returned; he was eventually betrayed and killed by his own agent Gríma on [[3 November]], {{TA|3019}}.

Saruman, who was a Maia, had lost his shape with his "death". As a discorporate spirit, he should have been called to [[Mandos]], but a wind came from the [[West]] and pushed it away. Apparently his spirit was left naked, powerless and wandering in Middle-earth; perhaps not unlike his master after the One Ring was destroyed.

==Characteristics==
In appearance, Saruman was as an old man with black hair. At the end of the Third Age, his hair and beard had turned mostly white — he had only black hairs about his lips and ears. He was tall, his face was long, and his eyes were deep and dark. He would appear in a white cloak, a habit he later changed into a cloak that changed colours as he moved.

He was not actually a [[Men|Man]], or even an [[Elves|Elf]] (as Men often suspected), but a [[Maiar|Maia]] clothed in flesh — an [[Istari|Istar]] (see ''Origins'' above). As such, he was immortal and extremely powerful, yet had limits on how far these powers could be used. His two most salient powers were his knowledge and his voice. Saruman was, in a very real way, the junior brother of Sauron both having been Maia of Aulë, Valar of Smithcraft, in the very beginnings of time. The parallels between Sauron and Saruman in both character and actions are many.

=== Powers ===
Knowledge of the "deep arts" (or magic, such as it is in Middle-earth) was of particular interest to Saruman, especially when relating to power such as the [[Rings of Power]] and the far seeing ''[[palantíri]]''. He was also deeply learned in ancient lore regarding powerful kingdoms such as [[Númenor]], [[Gondor]], and [[Moria]].

His voice and speech were extremely convincing, more powerful than mere rhetoric. When he focused this power on a person or a group of people, he could sway their hearts, plant fears and sow lies as he pleased. According to the stature of the listener, this spell could last as long as the speech did, or it could take root in them and last forever. Saruman's voice was so powerful that he was able to convince the [[Witch-king]] that he knew nothing of the One-Ring or the Shire. His voice was not hypnotic, however, rather it was persuasive; and the real danger the voice posed to the listener was not them falling into a trance, but agreeing with it.

Aside from his voice, Saruman has other subtle abilities such as giving great speed and motivation to his orcs at a distance and setting his will against all those in his dominion that might oppose him. Aragorn takes note of this ability while tracking the party of orcs holding Merry and Pippin hostage. Saruman also seems to be able to move around totally unheard by others, as there are numerous examples of him using this ability. Several examples include his sneaking up on [[Aragorn]], [[Gimli]] and [[Legolas]]'s camp in [[The Riders of Rohan]], his wholly unheard entrance in [[The Voice of Saruman]] and his quiet but sudden appearance to the hobbits in [[The Scouring of the Shire]].

Other powers include knowledge of machinery and chemistry, probably separable from explicit magic (for instance, the "blasting fire" employed by his [[Uruk-hai]] army in the battle of [[Helm's Deep]], was some kind of chemical explosive). Machinery and engines characterised both his fortified [[Isengard]] and his altered [[the Shire|Shire]] arenas of influence. In this, he sought to emulate, or even surpass his master, [[Sauron]]. This inclination was constitutional in them both from the very beginning.

His science also extended to biological areas. He is believed to have crossbred Men and Orcs, creating a new race of Orcs unafraid of daylight, the dreaded Uruk-hai, a major improvement on Sauron's thralls who hated daylight. His mannish spies in [[Bree]] were said to have Orc blood, giving them heightened senses over ordinary men. He also employed scavenger birds in his service, although this might also be attributed to [[Radagast]] the Brown, ordering them to report to [[Orthanc]], Saruman's stronghold.

Being regarded as more powerful than [[Gandalf]] (at least before Gandalf's "rebirth"), it's fair to assume he would also wield explicit magic similar to Gandalf, such as artificial light, locking spells, creating fire, etc.

Saruman, walking on the same ruinous path as Sauron, attempted to forge for himself a Ring of Power, much like his master had. This he wore during the War of the Ring which he revealed when he called himself "Saruman the Ring-maker". He had great knowledge and lore of the magic rings created by Sauron and by the Elven-smiths, though at this time the full art of ring-making was lost and known only to his master and so Saruman's knowledge of the craft was incomplete. It is assumed that Saruman's Ring was the equivalent of one of the lesser rings in power and any details of this power is not mentioned. It is also assumed that it too lost its power, if it had any, when the One Ring was destroyed, since Saruman's craft of ring-making was still based on Sauron's. When Gandalf was given Narya, the Ring of Fire, Saruman learned of the gift and resented it. This may be another reason why Saruman desired to have a ring of his own.

===Personality===
Saruman resembled Gandalf not only in appearance, but originally also somewhat in deportment, but unlike Gandalf, Saruman was proud, even haughty. He saw himself as the most powerful of the Istari, expressing clear contempt for Radagast the Brown, patronising tolerance of The Wise and Elves, and sheer disdain for lesser men. Saruman was no fool (though he saw Radagast as one); he realised Gandalf's power, and eventually came to see him as an equal, and later as a superior, much to his distress. He became jealous of Gandalf, eventually convincing himself that Gandalf was scheming against him, which justified his own scheming against Gandalf and the rest of the White Council, and the people of Middle-earth as well. Saruman's ultimate agenda in the end was not very different at all from Sauron's.

Saruman likely was true to his mission in the beginning, and actually believed in working to stop the Darkness, but his pride and later arrogance (as well as his jealousy towards Gandalf and corruption by Sauron) turned him into a traitor to the cause he had once served. Saruman's betrayal was not sudden, but slowly grew over time as Sauron used Saruman's lust for power, admiration of strength and envy as tools of control, until at last Saruman had convinced himself that he could not have taken any other path and that it was too late now to repent. To the last Saruman only believed in his own counsel and the deceptive words of Sauron. This false beliefs kept him from taking his last chance at redemption, and because he must have realised this after Gandalf's truly generous terms he only became more bitter and filled with the rage of failure, blaming Gandalf more than anyone else for his downfall.

==Politics==

===Men===
Saruman "went mostly among men". He always sought power, and it lay in the hands of the kingdoms of Men.

No records speak of his earliest journeys into the east; after his return he became a servant of [[Gondor]], receiving the keys to Orthanc from Beren as its warden. When Gondor weakened, he claimed Orthanc for his own without any formal declaration (or objection from Gondor), yet remained nominally an ally of Gondor and of Rohan.

When he turned to treachery, Saruman employed men mainly from [[Dunland]], and agents from other lands, turning old grudges into fuel for new hatred. The Dunlendings were enticed with the old stories that they had once lived in [[Calenardhon]] before the ''Strawheads''. The Dunlendings became his soldiers and it also seems probable that he used some of them to create [[Half-orcs]].

Gríma Wormtongue played a vital role in Saruman's plans: with Saruman's counsel Gríma began to weaken the king, estranging him from his other counsellors and even his own kin, until Gríma had in effect become the leader of Rohan.

===Elves===
Saruman was once on good terms with the Elves, and was voted in as the leader of the White Council, a group of Elves and Istari united against Sauron.

Saruman knew that Gandalf had been given the third Elvish ring [[Narya]] by [[Círdan]] the Shipwright. This nurtured his jealousy of Gandalf and his resentment towards the Elves.

Saruman had little use for, or interest in, the Elves, who were declining and their lands were few and secretive; although they wielded marvellous powers and two Rings of Power, they were not useful nor accessible for Saruman's ambitions. Also, they succumbed less easily than other races to manipulation.

Even though Isengard lay very close to [[Lothlórien]], Saruman had very little or no contact with it. Saruman never trusted [[Galadriel]] and he accused her of scheming for Gandalf at his expense.<ref name=Partings/>

===Orcs===
Saruman drew his original strength of Orcs from tribes in the [[Misty Mountains]], and perhaps from Moria Orcs. He made use of [[Wargs|Warg]]-mounted Orcs for raids against Rohan.

He also bred [[Orcs of Isengard|Orcs]] in the pits of Isengard, eventually creating crossbreeds of Orcs and Men (probably [[Dunlendings]] or [[Bree-men]]). This programme apparently also involved feeding these greater Orcs Man-flesh as a treat.

His [[Uruk-hai]] legions displayed great discipline and fierce loyalty, in addition to the other improvements such as height, strength, endurance and resistance to sunlight. There also appears to have been middle stages between Men and the Uruk-hai, Men with varying degrees of Orkish appearance such as [[Half-orcs]] and [[Goblin-men]]. These were reported by Pippin and Merry to have been part of Saruman's regular army, but were not Uruk-hai, since the hobbits would have recognised these from their earlier capture.

Saruman's servants called him "[[Sharkey]]" both in Isengard and later in the Shire.

===Ents/Trees===
Saruman made contact with the Ents in [[Fangorn Forest]] shortly after he settled in [[Isengard]]. The oldest of the Ents, [[Treebeard]] received him and gave him free access to the forest.

Saruman also consulted with Treebeard, learning much old lore that the Ents would have remembered from ancient times. Saruman did not return this favour, but only listened.

The Ents saw Saruman's treachery early, and became very concerned, primarily with Saruman's Orcs felling trees on the edge of Fangorn for use in the furnaces of Isengard and sometimes for no reason at all.

The Ents also appear to have had a sense of order, how things should be, that Saruman encroached upon. The crossbreeding of Men and Orcs particularly alarmed them, out of proportion to other concerns enemies of Saruman might have had. Also alarming was the pure fact of his treachery — the Istari were supposed to have a special responsibility.

Saruman used the Ents and the Fangorn forest without concern for the consequences. He clearly misjudged the Ents' abilities and will to act. This might not have been as incautious as it seemed, since major contributing factors to the Ent's actions were advice and requests from Gandalf, and concern about the rising power of Sauron (and their wish to support the front-line troops of the war, Rohan and Gondor).

Saruman clearly had the ability to understand the minds of the Ents when he found it useful. He managed to talk Treebeard into setting him free from Orthanc by pushing just the right buttons — Ents dislike the concept of caging up any creature.

===Hobbits===
The race of [[Hobbits]] and their lands seemed too insignificant to interest Saruman: until he took notice of Gandalf's special concern for them. Studying Gandalf made him focus gradually more and more on the Hobbits and The Shire. For a period he actually travelled there in secret, mapping out the lands. Gandalf was aware of this, but at this point only amused.

He began smoking pipe-weed (a habit of the Hobbits that Gandalf had picked up), also in secret. His demand for tobacco opened up trading between The Shire and Isengard, and the power his money could wield there and the corruption it could cause began to fascinate him. Some of his agents went in secret, and some were known to Gandalf and the [[Rangers of the North|Rangers]].

His anger towards the Hobbits may possibly stem from the attention Gandalf showed them. It certainly strengthened immensely when he discovered that the Hobbits had "conspired" with Gandalf to keep [[the One Ring]] from him.

This, and the sudden urgency caused by the [[Nazgûl|Ringwraiths]]' hunt for the Ring-bearer from The Shire to Rivendell, made him increase his activity in the area, leading to a build-up of power that would lead to virtual conquest of The Shire.

He might also later have blamed the ruin of Isengard by the Ents on [[Peregrin Took]] and [[Meriadoc Brandybuck]], who clearly catalysed events.

This all came together when Saruman escaped from the Ents and retired to The Shire and his thug regime in place there. It appears he immediately switched the focus of this operation to wanton destruction: pollution, murder, fire, chopping down trees for no reason, a last blow against Hobbits and Gandalf.

At his final utter defeat by [[Battle of Bywater|a Hobbit uprising]], his life was spared even when he tried to assassinate [[Frodo Baggins]]. At this moment he actually conceded a short-lived respect to Frodo.

===Valar/Maiar/Wizards===
Saruman was supposedly eager to go to Middle-earth, against Manwë's counsel. After his 'death' he was apparently barred from returning to Valinor, and therefore was denied reincarnation and condemned to waft away and disappear like so much smoke. In his corrupt state, Saruman sought power and the imposing of order in Middle-earth by any means necessary, even if it meant betraying the mission he was entrusted with.

Sauron, in origin a Maia of Aulë like Saruman, awed and frightened him. During the height of his arrogance Saruman thought he could rival Sauron, but in the end he found himself meddling with a spirit of far greater power and knowledge than himself. Caught peering into the ''palantír'' he was seduced by Sauron to his allegiance, no longer opposing (and perhaps even desiring) his victory. Saruman sought to become a lieutenant almost-equal to his master and receive his favor in triumph, yet he was also a duplicitous servant by actively coveting the One Ring. After the failed attempt through the ambush at Amon Hen, Saruman understood the only paths ahead of him were to either show his master faith by crippling Rohan, hoping to at the very least be spared, or come to ruin and torment.

Saruman grudgingly brought with him Radagast as a companion from Valinor, at the request of [[Yavanna]], yet still managed to arrive alone, and first. Shortly after, he went into the East with the two [[Blue Wizards]], and later returned alone. There he may have wrought many great works to diminish the influence of the Enemy or searched for lore to help him in his schemes.

Radagast, even though Saruman scorned him, served both Gandalf and Saruman very usefully (and wholly unintentionally, as he admitted "he had just the wit to play the part I set him", that of persuading Gandalf to come to Isengard). Radagast also sent birds to Saruman and Gandalf to report the different happenings in Middle-earth.

Saruman had always been jealous of Gandalf, and knew that he was keeping secrets from him, such as his suspicion about [[The One Ring|Bilbo's Ring]] and [[Narya]], secret. Gandalf also suspected Saruman of plotting to gain the One Ring for himself, and hinted at this at a meeting of the White Council. Gandalf blew nine small smoke rings and one great one that wavered a bit, seeming almost palpable, and yet blew away, symbolising (almost prophetic of) Saruman's failure in achieving the One. In general, Saruman must have viewed Gandalf as his only peer, and as such to be feared and treated with (although not necessarily shown) respect. He always kept a watchful eye open for Gandalf's doings, and actually picked up the habit of smoking pipe-weed by sending out spies tailing Gandalf to the Shire. After revealing his fealty to Mordor and his desire for the Ring, Saruman offered Gandalf the chance to join with Sauron, or perhaps get the One for themselves. Ultimately, certain he Gandalf could be forced to tell of the Ring's whereabouts or that he could help Sauron win, he came to underestimate Gandalf and think little of his interventions.

Nevertheless, Saruman exercised more power than Gandalf, even with the ring Narya, as became clear when he placed Gandalf under arrest at the pinnacle of Orthanc. The text does not make it clear whether Saruman lost power or whether Gandalf gained power, but when Gandalf returned as "Gandalf [[the White]]", he could summon Saruman at his will, forcibly keep him in his presence, and finally break Saruman's staff (with whatever implications that might have had for Saruman's powers).

Despite his apparent disdain for the Grey Pilgrim, Saruman several times came very close to setting aside his pride and to asking Gandalf for pity and help. The closest call came when the [[Nazgûl|Ringwraiths]] (on their way to the Shire) arrived at Isengard while Gandalf still remained in captivity there. Saruman, realising he might have already lost Sauron's trust, actually went to seek Gandalf's pardon, only to find his erstwhile captive missing from the top of Orthanc.

===Animals===
Saruman had control over many birds, probably having been taught to tame them by Radagast. Crebain spied for him and brought him news. In addition, the Orcs Saruman took in his armies had amongst them wild [[wolves]] and even [[Wargs]], a sort of demonic cousin of the former.

==Etymology==
''Saruman'' is a [[Mannish]] translation of [[Quenya]] ''[[Curumo]]'', his original name in [[Valinor]] as a Maia; and [[Sindarin]] ''[[Curunír]]'' which is supposedly the same name (with the ending ''[[dîr|-ndîr]]'' "man"). All names mean "Skilled Man" or "Cunning One" (root ''[[curu]]'' "skill").<ref name=RC81>{{HM|RC}}, p. 81</ref><ref>{{webcite|author=[[Helge Fauskanger]]|articleurl=http://folk.uib.no/hnohf/quen-eng.htm|articlename=Quettaparma Quenyallo|website=Arda}}</ref><ref>{{webcite|author=[[Didier Willis]], ed.|articleurl=http://www.jrrvf.com/hisweloke/sindar/online/sindar/dict-sd-en.html|articlename=Hiswelókë's Sindarin dictionary|website=[http://www.jrrvf.com/hisweloke/ Hiswelókë]}}</ref>

''Saruman'' is derived from [[Old English]]: the root word ''searu'' means "device, design, contrivance, art" and the whole name means "man of skill".<ref name=RC81/>

His name in [[Sindarin]] was ''Curunír 'Lân''.<ref name=Istari/>

==Other versions of the legendarium==
In the earlier versions of ''The Lord of the Rings'', Saruman was sketched merely as Sauron's fawning servant, while the army he musters is not in rivalry of Mordor's but from the beginning in his new master's employ. In other drafts, the treacherous wizard hands Gandalf over to the evil [[Giants|Giant]] Treebeard or betrays him to the Black Riders. <ref>{{TI|VII}}</ref>

Saruman's older names in these drafts were Sarumond and Saramund,<ref name=rc>{{HM|RC}}, p. xxiii</ref> containing the english term ''mund'' "hand".

==Inspiration==
Saruman was invented and introduced in the story in order to explain Gandalf's absence in the first part of ''The Lord of the Rings'', replacing Treebeard as the wizard's captor. <ref name=rc/>

As a scholar, Tolkien would also have been well aware of the name of a similarly-named historic 'head of his order', Jaruman.

==Portrayal in adaptations==
{{Gallery
|title=Saruman in adaptations
|height=150
|width=250
|File:The Lord of the Rings (1978 film) - Saruman.jpg|Saruman in [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]
|lines=2
|File:The Lord of the Rings (film series) - Saruman using Palantír.jpg|[[Christopher Lee]] as Saruman in [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (film series)]]
|File:LOTRO-Rise of Isengard-Saruman-1.png|Saruman in ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]''
|File:Lego - Saruman minifigure.jpg|Saruman in [[Lego]] form
}}

===Films===
'''1978: [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]:'''
:[[Fraser Kerr]] provided the voice of Saruman. From early on in the production, it was decided that "Saruman" and "Sauron" sounded too much alike, and might confuse viewers. On concept art, Saruman is called "Ruman",<ref>[http://www.ralphbakshi.com/gallery/displayimage.php?album=5&pos=69 1978 - The Lord of the Rings Gallery] at [http://www.ralphbakshi.com Ralphbakshi.com] (accessed 26 March 2011)</ref> but prior to recording, this was changed to "Aruman". However, during recording, it was again changed, to "Saruman". Because of this late change, several instances of "Aruman" remain in the finished film.

'''2001-03: [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (film series)]]:'''
:Saruman was played by [[Christopher Lee]]. Saruman's depiction in the series is more akin to the early drafts, in that he is a more willing and trustworthy servant of Sauron (though he still instructs [[Lurtz]] to bring him the hobbits carrying "something of great value"). The films did not include the [[Scouring of the Shire]], so Saruman's last appearance was in Isengard, during his encounter with Gandalf and Théoden. In the [[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (extended edition)|extended edition of ''The Return of the King'']], Gríma stabs Saruman in the back, causing him to fall on a spiked wheel below the tower of Orthanc.

'''2012-14: [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'' (film series)]]:'''
:[[Christopher Lee]] reprised his role as Saruman, although the character does not appear in the book.<ref name="TelegraphCasting">{{webcite|articleurl=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/film/film-news/8311016/Christopher-Lee-will-star-in-the-Hobbit-prequel.html|articlename=Christopher Lee will star in the Hobbit prequel|dated=08-Feb-2011|website=[http://www.telegraph.co.uk/ The Telegraph]|accessed=21-Dec-2011}}</ref> He appears as part of the [[White Council]] alongside [[Gandalf]], [[Galadriel]] and [[Elrond]]. He is sceptical about the appearance of a [[Sauron#Sauron's Return|Necromancer]] in [[Dol Guldur]]. However, when he participates in the [[attack on Dol Guldur]], he sees for himself that Sauron has indeed returned. After the skirmish, he appears shaken by the display of Sauron's power, but claims he will take it upon himself to keep an eye on the Dark Lord and pretends to care for Lady Galadriel's weakened state.

===Television===
'''1993: [[Hobitit|''Hobitit'']]:'''
:Saruman was played by actor Mikko Kivinen. He appears only in episode "Vanha metsä" ("Old Forest").

===Radio series===
'''1955: [[The Lord of the Rings (1955 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1955 radio series)]]:'''
:The voice of Saruman is provided by [[Robert Farquharson]].

'''1979: [[The Lord of the Rings (1979 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1979 radio series)]]:'''
:The voice of Saruman is provided by [[James Arrington]].

'''1981: [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1981 radio series)]]:'''
:[[Peter Howell]] played Saruman. Because the series follows a chronological timeline rather than the flashbacks of the books, Saruman's betrayal is brought out much sooner than in the book. Excerpts from [[The Hunt for the Ring]] are dramatised to flesh out Gandalf's escape from Isengard, and the Nazgul's pursuit. In the final episode Saruman's death at the hands of Wormtongue at Bag End is included.

'''1992: [[Der Herr der Ringe (1992 German radio series)|''Der Herr der Ringe'' (1992 German radio series)]]:'''
:Saruman is played by Manfred Steffen.

'''2001-2003: [[Pán prsteňov (2001-2003 Slovak radio series)|''Pán prsteňov'' (2001-2003 Slovak radio series)]]:'''
:The voice of Saruman is provided by Andrej Hryc. Saruman appears in all three series (seasons) of this adaptation, with his most prominent appearances in the episodes covering ''The Two Towers''.

===Games===
'''2003: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King'' (video game)]]:'''
:Though Christopher Lee provided the voice of Saruman for many scenes, the only visual appearance of the Wizard of from re-used movie clips, his voice is played over several Gandalf's actions though.

'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War of the Ring]]'':'''
:Saruman is one of the "Hero" units of the Servants of Sauron, the game also depicts his creation of the Uruk-hai.

'''2004: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth]]'':'''
:Saruman is the main "Hero" unit of Isengard faction, the evil campaign follows his despoilment of both Isengard and the Fangorn Forest, war on Rohan and later conquest of the outlying lands.

'''2006: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth II]]'':'''
:Saruman is still the main "Hero" unit of Isengard faction, but plays no role in the storyline.

'''2011: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard]]'':'''

: Through frequently referred to in-game since 2007, Saruman made no visual appearance until 2011 and the ''Rise of Isengard'' expansion. Many quests in the game display the stretch of the White Hand - Saruman's minions are present in Shire as early as {{TA|3018}}, as well as [[Bree-land]], [[Lone-lands]], [[Eregion]], [[Enedwaith]], [[Dunland]], [[Gap of Rohan]], outskirts of the [[Fangorn Forest]] and even [[Moria]].
:In the storyline of ''Rise of Isengard'' Saruman first appears buying the loyalties of the Dunlending clans, bringing with him riches and maintaining a friendly appearance. He also still keeps his affairs in Rohan private, to the point that when a Rohirrim questions the desolation of [[Nan Curunír]] and the presence of Trolls in Isengard, the Wizard manages to use his voice to convince him that it was all for the good cause. At one point, traitorous Dunlendings capture the player and send him to Saruman as a gift - once again the Wizard maintains a friendly and noble appearance, trying to discern the location of The Ring, before the player escapes.
:A major storyline is derived from a single line in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', where Saruman calls himself "Ring-forger". Long having researched the Rings of Power, Saruman sends his minions to pillage what remains of Ring-Forges of Eregion, looking for any knowledge of ancient Elven smiths that have remained here. Using that lore, he constructs a massive Ring-Forge under Isengard, where he creates five lesser rings and a master one to command them. He keeps the master ring to himself and gives the other to his most trusted lieutenants, though none of the mortals are prepared for it and are turned into monstrosities. A large forces of players defeats them one by one, reclaiming lesser rings and later uses those rings to turn upon the master one. In the ensuing fight Saruman's ring is destroyed shortly before the Battle of Hornburg, and with it the lesser ones lose their power.

'''2014: [[Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor]]:'''
:Voiced by [[Roger Jackson]], Saruman appears in this game as a non-playable character. The game's protagonist, Talion, finds various artefacts that reveal that Saruman's spies are active within the borders of [[Mordor]] in the years between ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]''. It is later revealed that Saruman was controlling Queen Marwen of the [[Nurnen]] to hinder Sauron while bringing about the destruction of the men of [[Nurn]].

==See also==
* [[:Category:Images of Saruman|Images of Saruman]]

{{References}}

{{Ainur}}
{{hobbitfilms}}
[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]
[[Category:Characters in The Silmarillion]]
[[Category:Maiar]]
[[Category:Old English names]]
[[Category:Third Age characters]]
[[Category:Wizards]]
[[Category:Servants of Sauron]]

[[de:Saruman]]
[[fr:/encyclo/personnages/ainur/maiar/istari/saruman]]
[[fi:Saruman]]

Saruman

2021-09-26T18:04:38Z

Protospace: adding information, source, page numbers

{{sources}}
{{maiar infobox
| name=Saruman
| image=[[File:John Howe - Saruman.jpg|250px]]
| caption="Saruman" by [[John Howe]]
| pronun=
| othernames=Curumo, Curunír, [[the White]], Ring-maker, Of many colours, [[Sharkey]]
| titles=
| position=Head of the [[White Council]]
| location=[[Orthanc]]
| affiliation=[[Aulë]] [[Istari]] (Wizards) [[White Council]] [[Sauron]]
| language=
| birth=
| birthlocation=
| rule=
| death=[[3 November]] {{TA|3019}}
| deathlocation=[[Hobbiton]]
| age=
| notablefor=
| house=
| parentage=
| siblings=
| spouse=
| children=
| gender=Male
| height=Tall
| hair=White with strands of black<ref name="Voice">{{TT|Voice}}</ref>
| eyes=
| clothing=White robes, shimmering with many colours
| weapons=Staff Knife
| steed=
}}
{{pronounce|Quenya - Curumo.mp3|Gilgamesh}}
{{quote|[Saruman] is great among the Wise. He is the chief of my order and the head of the Council. His knowledge is deep, but his pride has grown with it, and he takes ill any meddling. The lore of the Elven-rings, great and small, is his province. He has long studied it, seeking the lost secrets of their making (....)|[[Gandalf]], ''[[The Shadow of the Past]]''}}
'''Saruman the White''' ([[Third Age]] c. 1000 – 3019, existed in [[Middle-earth]] for 2019 years) was the first of the order of [[Wizards]] (or ''Istari'') who came to Middle-earth as Emissaries of the [[Valar]] in the [[Third Age]]. He was the leader of the [[White Council]]. In [[Sindarin]] his name was '''Curunír''', which meant "Man of Skill".

==History==
===Early history===
As a [[Maia]], Saruman was created by Gandalf was created by [[Ilúvatar]] before the [[Music of the Ainur]].<ref name="Ainu">{{S|Ainu}}</ref> In his early days in [[Valinor]], he went by the name ''[[Curumo]]''.<ref>{{UT|Istari}}, note 6</ref> Like [[Sauron]], he was a powerful Maiar of [[Aulë]].<ref>{{S|Vala}}</ref>

After the Valar discovered the primeval [[Elves]] at [[Cuiviénen]], Curumo was sent with several other Maiar to guard the Elves from the forces of [[Melkor]]. The Elves called him ''[[Tarindor]]''. It is unclear how long he remained or if he accompanied the [[Eldar]] on the [[Great Journey]].<ref name=Cuv>{{NM|P1xiii}}, p. 95</ref>

===Return to Middle-earth===
After the defeat of Morgoth, the Valar grew concerned about the rising power of Sauron in Middle-earth. In [[Valinor]], a council was called by [[Manwë]], where it was decided to send Maiar as emissaries to Middle-earth to help the [[Free Peoples]] challenge Sauron. The council likely met in the middle of the Second Age, shortly after the creation of the [[Rings of Power]]. The council determined that these emissaries (later known as the [[Istari]] or Wizards) should be "mighty, peers of Sauron, yet [they should] forgo might, and clothe themselves in flesh so as to treat on equality and win the trust of Elves and Men."<ref name=Istari>{{UT|Istari}}</ref>{{rp|393}} Curumo was sent to the council by Aulë, and he volunteered to travel to Middle-earth as one of these emissaries; he was appointed as the first Istar and became the chief their Order.<ref name=Istari />{{rp|389, 394}}

Even before arriving in Middle-earth, Curumo begrudged his peers among the Istari. ''[[Gandalf|Olórin]]'' (later Gandalf), who did not wish to travel to Middle-earth, was commanded by Manwë to go as the third Istar. Saruman's jealousy of Gandalf began here, when [[Varda]] said of Gandalf that he was "not the third". Saruman was charged to take [[Aiwendil]] (later Radagast) with him to please [[Yavanna]], which he did not wish to do, and this led to his contempt for the latter Wizard.<ref name=Istari />{{rp|393}}

In Middle-earth, Curomo became known in [[Sindarin]] as ''[[Curunír]]'' and in [[Westron]] by his most common name, ''Saruman''. Like the other Wizards, his [[fana]] took the appearance of an old man. He had raven hairand was robed in white.<ref name=Istari />{{rp|393}}

Saruman and others of the Istari arrived in a ship at [[Mithlond]] (the [[Grey Havens]]) in [[Lindon]] around the year 1000 of the [[Third Age]].<ref name=Istari />At the time of their arrival, their origin, nature, purpose, and true names were a secret to nearly everyone in Middle-earth. Having witnessed their arrival, [[Círdan]] alone knew the truth of their identity and origin. He chose to give [[Narya]], the Red Ring, to Gandalf to aid him in his mission.<ref name="AppTA"/> Círdan told only [[Galadriel]] and [[Elrond]] of the true origins of the Istari.<ref name="SV"/> After a time, Saruman learned of Círdan's gift and begrudged it; this heightened the hidden ill-will that he bore towards Gandalf.<ref name=Istari/>

Shortly after arriving, Saruman travelled into the [[East]] of Middle-earth, as did the two [[Blue Wizards]]. After one and a half millennia he returned to the West, just as Sauron's power was growing again in [[Dol Guldur]].

===Chief of the White Council===
[[File:Angus McBride - Saruman.gif|thumb|[[Angus McBride]] - ''Saruman'']]
When the [[White Council]] was formed around {{TA|2463}}<ref name="AppTA"/>, Saruman was appointed its leader. Even then, he had begun to sense the resurgence of Sauron and to envy and desire his power, and especially his [[The One Ring|One Ring]]. Coincidentally, in that same year the One Ring was found by the creature [[Gollum]]<ref name="AppTA"/>, drawing the [[Dark Lord]] closer to the conflict that would eventually prove Saruman's undoing.

During this period, Saurman spent years in [[Minas Tirith]] examining its archives. It is possible that there he surmised that a [[Palantíri|''palantír'']] would still be located in [[Orthanc]], the tower of [[Isengard]].<ref>{{UT|Palantiri}}</ref> He offered to make Isengard his home and to command the defences of the West. This was welcomed by King [[Fréaláf]] of [[Rohan]] and [[Ruling Steward|Steward]] [[Beren (Steward of Gondor)|Beren]] of [[Gondor]] alike. In {{TA|2759}}, Saruman was given the [[Key of Orthanc]] in the ring of [[Isengard]] his abode, hoping that he would prove an important ally.<ref name="SV">{{S|V}}</ref><Ref name=stew>{{App|Stewards}}</ref> There he became important in the defence of the free lands of the West. In Orthanc he came upon the [[Orthanc-stone]], one of the seven seeing stones, but kept it secret and hidden, particularly from the White Council. He would later betray the Council by concealing his use of it.

In {{TA|2851}}, the White Council met and Gandalf revealed that the evil presence in Dol Guldur was indeed Sauron and that he had returned, and urged an attack there. Saruman however believed that Sauron would be useful in his quest: allowing Sauron to build up his strength, the One Ring would reveal itself, and Saruman hoped to have sufficient strength to seize it first himself until that event. With this strategy in mind, Saruman overruled Gandalf. It soon became clear that Saruman desired to possess [[the One Ring]] himself.<ref name="AppTA">{{App|TA}}</ref>

He soon found that Sauron had more knowledge of the possible location of the One Ring than he expected, and in {{TA|2941}} he finally consented to an [[Attack on Dol Guldur]] against Sauron at which point Sauron retreated to [[Mordor]].
[[File:Angus McBride - Dol Guldur.jpg|thumb|left|Angus McBride - ''Dol Guldur'']]
In {{TA|2953}}, the [[Wise]] gathered once more to debate about the [[Rings of Power]]. Saruman quieted the Council claiming to have the knowledge that the One Ring was lost forever in the [[Belegaer]]. Following their final meeting (and the death of [[Turgon (Steward of Gondor)|Steward Turgon]]), Saruman took Isengard for his own and fortified it.<Ref name=stew/> Saruman, jealous and afraid of Gandalf, set spies to watch all his movements; thus he discovered the existence of the [[Shire]] and noted Gandalf's interest in it, and started sending agents in [[Bree]] and the [[Southfarthing]].<ref name="AppTA"/> As [[Lord of Isengard]], Saruman began to bring trouble to Rohan by aiding its enemies.<ref name="AppMark">{{App|Mark}}</ref> But the Wise were already suspicious about him; [[Aragorn]] tried to advice Steward [[Ecthelion II]] to not trust Saruman for his help against [[Sauron]].<Ref name=stew/>

Sauron had declared himself openly in Mordor; he established contact with Saruman through the [[Ithil-stone]] his minions had captured from [[Minas Ithil]]. Through his jealousy towards Gandalf and his ever-growing pride and arrogance, and through the use of the ''palantír'' was dominated by Sauron, becoming a servant of his will. Using either the knowledge of his new master or lore of lost [[Eregion]], Saruman crafted his own lesser ring and sought to emulate Sauron. His corruption was complete around {{TA|3000}}.<ref name="AppTA"/> Saruman intended to seize the One Ring for himself, or at the very least stand as a vassal of the victorious Sauron.

===War of the Ring===
At about this time, in an attempt to control [[Rohan]], Saruman bought the allegiance of King [[Théoden]]'s chief advisor, [[Gríma]], who then counselled the ailing king to do nothing about the steady resurgence of Sauron's armies. Saruman and Gríma's treachery would have crippled Rohan's military might and allowed Sauron lordship of the kingdom, had not [[Gandalf]] interfered a year later and revealed to Théoden his right-hand man's true designs, healing the old king and revitalising his political and military rule.

He had sent spies to negotiate the purchase of "[[pipe-weed|leaf]]" from [[the Shire]], in preparation for the war, and also learn of any [[Hobbits]] who had departed recently in hopes of finding out who possessed [[the One Ring]].<ref name="UT10">{{UT|10}}, "Concerning Gandalf, Saruman, and the Shire"</ref>

Saruman did not reveal his true intentions until Gandalf presented him with the discovery and location of the One Ring. On [[10 July]], {{TA|3018}}, Gandalf arrived at Isengard.<ref name="AppGreat">{{App|Great}}</ref> Saruman demanded that Gandalf submit to Sauron or fail. Saruman then stood forth as '''Saruman of Many Colours''', and when Gandalf refused to join him or tell him of the Ring, he held him captive in Isengard.
[[File:The Lord of the Rings - The Two Towers - Gríma and Saruman.jpg|thumb|left|Saruman commanding his forces from Orthanc]]
It must have been during Gandalf's captivity in Orthanc that Saruman began to amass a massive army of [[Orcs]], [[Dunlendings]], and [[Uruk-hai]], since Gandalf came to an as yet un-destroyed Isengard. From the pinnacle of the tower Gandalf could see that Saruman was gathering hordes of orcs and [[wolves]] in his pits and forges.<ref name="FRCouncil">{{FR|Council}}</ref> One can speculate that if matters had developed a little more slowly, his puppet Gríma would have gained full control over Rohan, and the [[Rohirrim]] would have been enslaved or destroyed.

Saruman's plans likely failed because he, like Sauron, was forced to reveal his hand early by Gandalf's subsequent escape, and therefore he had little time to perfect his plans. As Saruman considered himself "unfallen", he honestly believed he had a chance of converting Gandalf to their side, and felt honestly betrayed by Gandalf when he was refused.

Gandalf later escaped, and so Saruman's treachery and service to Sauron became known to the rest of the White Council when Gandalf reported this during the subsequent [[Council of Elrond]].

Saruman soon also betrayed his master by lying to the [[Witch-king]] when he arrived at Isengard. Sauron had sent the [[Nazgûl]] searching for [[Bilbo Baggins|Baggins]], who had found the One Ring years before, and the Shire, his home. Saruman pretended to know nothing about the Shire. But the Lord of Minas Morgul and his company did not have the strength to assault the Ring of Isengard. Saruman told them that he believed Gandalf knew the whereabouts of the Ring and the Riders departed.

In September of {{TA|3018}} the Nazgûl captured one of his [[the Shire|Shire]] [[Squint-eyed Southerner|spies]] who told the [[Witch-king]] everything, betraying Saruman, and exposing the wizard's double treachery. They also seized some maps and information about the Shire and [[Baggins]].<ref name="UT10" /> Caught now as a traitor to the Free Peoples and unfaithful ally to Mordor, Saruman put all efforts into obtaining [[the One Ring]] for himself.<ref name="UTHunt">{{UT|Hunt}}</ref>

The failure to capture the Ring at [[Emyn Muil]] further ruined Saruman's plans, as he was revealed as a traitor to Sauron as well.
[[File:Ted Nasmith - The Wrath of the Ents.jpg|thumb|[[Ted Nasmith]] - ''The Wrath of the Ents'']]
Finding himself in a precarious position, Saruman could only hope to acquire the Ring or reassure Sauron of his loyalties. Therefore he implemented an aggressive strategy of attacking [[Rohan]], endeavouring to kill the King's son [[Théodred]], sending spies to waylay [[Frodo Baggins]] on his flight from the Shire, and dispatching raiding parties on likely routes a company of the Ring might take to Gondor. Ironically, one of these parties captured [[Peregrin Took]] and [[Meriadoc Brandybuck]] and transported them to [[Fangorn Forest]] in time to mobilise the [[Ents]]. Gandalf also suspected Saruman had found (and destroyed) the remains of [[Isildur]], who had worn the Ring before it had been lost.

Saruman's Shire network failed to capture Frodo Baggins, Gandalf rallied Rohan to victory, [[Éomer]] stopped his brutal, but only partially successful raiding party, and control of Isengard was lost to the [[Ents]]. Aware he was utterly defeated, Saruman briefly considered repenting for his deeds, but at the last moment could not go through with it. Whether he had hope he could escape, whether he was too proud to surrender to Gandalf, whether he thought his master would pardon him, Saruman refused to leave the confines of his fortress. Saruman made a final attempt to woo Théoden and Gandalf to his cause but failed: his staff was broken and he was expelled from the Order of the Istari.

Left out of the final stages of the War of the Ring and unable to be of any use to Sauron, he eventually managed to convince his captors, the Ents, into letting him leave Isengard, as apparently the magic of his voice still remained.

[[File:Ted Nasmith - Saruman is Overtaken.jpg|thumb|[[Ted Nasmith]] - ''Saruman is Overtaken'']]On their way to northern [[Dunland]], on [[28 August]]<Ref name=chief>{{App|Chief}}</ref> they were confronted by Gandalf, [[Celeborn]], [[Galadriel]] and the Hobbits, but they passed as travelling beggars as Saruman kicked Gríma to move on, and he exclaimed how he hated his lord. Gandalf told Gríma that he was free to leave him but he did not reply. As Saruman was considered powerless, there was little concern for his escape.<ref name=Partings>{{RK|Partings}}</ref> On [[22 September]]<ref name=chief/> they entered to the Shire, which his ally [[Lotho Sackville-Baggins]] (undisturbed by events elsewhere) had brought under control. He established himself in [[Hobbiton]] and spent his final days as a small-time thug lord whom his [[ruffians]] called '''''Sharkey''''', imposing a terror regime to avenge himself upon the peaceful Halflings. But even this operation fell apart after Frodo and [[Samwise Gamgee]] returned; he was eventually betrayed and killed by his own agent Gríma on [[3 November]], {{TA|3019}}.

Saruman, who was a Maia, had lost his shape with his "death". As a discorporate spirit, he should have been called to [[Mandos]], but a wind came from the [[West]] and pushed it away. Apparently his spirit was left naked, powerless and wandering in Middle-earth; perhaps not unlike his master after the One Ring was destroyed.

==Characteristics==
In appearance, Saruman was as an old man with black hair. At the end of the Third Age, his hair and beard had turned mostly white — he had only black hairs about his lips and ears. He was tall, his face was long, and his eyes were deep and dark. He would appear in a white cloak, a habit he later changed into a cloak that changed colours as he moved.

He was not actually a [[Men|Man]], or even an [[Elves|Elf]] (as Men often suspected), but a [[Maiar|Maia]] clothed in flesh — an [[Istari|Istar]] (see ''Origins'' above). As such, he was immortal and extremely powerful, yet had limits on how far these powers could be used. His two most salient powers were his knowledge and his voice. Saruman was, in a very real way, the junior brother of Sauron both having been Maia of Aulë, Valar of Smithcraft, in the very beginnings of time. The parallels between Sauron and Saruman in both character and actions are many.

=== Powers ===
Knowledge of the "deep arts" (or magic, such as it is in Middle-earth) was of particular interest to Saruman, especially when relating to power such as the [[Rings of Power]] and the far seeing ''[[palantíri]]''. He was also deeply learned in ancient lore regarding powerful kingdoms such as [[Númenor]], [[Gondor]], and [[Moria]].

His voice and speech were extremely convincing, more powerful than mere rhetoric. When he focused this power on a person or a group of people, he could sway their hearts, plant fears and sow lies as he pleased. According to the stature of the listener, this spell could last as long as the speech did, or it could take root in them and last forever. Saruman's voice was so powerful that he was able to convince the [[Witch-king]] that he knew nothing of the One-Ring or the Shire. His voice was not hypnotic, however, rather it was persuasive; and the real danger the voice posed to the listener was not them falling into a trance, but agreeing with it.

Aside from his voice, Saruman has other subtle abilities such as giving great speed and motivation to his orcs at a distance and setting his will against all those in his dominion that might oppose him. Aragorn takes note of this ability while tracking the party of orcs holding Merry and Pippin hostage. Saruman also seems to be able to move around totally unheard by others, as there are numerous examples of him using this ability. Several examples include his sneaking up on [[Aragorn]], [[Gimli]] and [[Legolas]]'s camp in [[The Riders of Rohan]], his wholly unheard entrance in [[The Voice of Saruman]] and his quiet but sudden appearance to the hobbits in [[The Scouring of the Shire]].

Other powers include knowledge of machinery and chemistry, probably separable from explicit magic (for instance, the "blasting fire" employed by his [[Uruk-hai]] army in the battle of [[Helm's Deep]], was some kind of chemical explosive). Machinery and engines characterised both his fortified [[Isengard]] and his altered [[the Shire|Shire]] arenas of influence. In this, he sought to emulate, or even surpass his master, [[Sauron]]. This inclination was constitutional in them both from the very beginning.

His science also extended to biological areas. He is believed to have crossbred Men and Orcs, creating a new race of Orcs unafraid of daylight, the dreaded Uruk-hai, a major improvement on Sauron's thralls who hated daylight. His mannish spies in [[Bree]] were said to have Orc blood, giving them heightened senses over ordinary men. He also employed scavenger birds in his service, although this might also be attributed to [[Radagast]] the Brown, ordering them to report to [[Orthanc]], Saruman's stronghold.

Being regarded as more powerful than [[Gandalf]] (at least before Gandalf's "rebirth"), it's fair to assume he would also wield explicit magic similar to Gandalf, such as artificial light, locking spells, creating fire, etc.

Saruman, walking on the same ruinous path as Sauron, attempted to forge for himself a Ring of Power, much like his master had. This he wore during the War of the Ring which he revealed when he called himself "Saruman the Ring-maker". He had great knowledge and lore of the magic rings created by Sauron and by the Elven-smiths, though at this time the full art of ring-making was lost and known only to his master and so Saruman's knowledge of the craft was incomplete. It is assumed that Saruman's Ring was the equivalent of one of the lesser rings in power and any details of this power is not mentioned. It is also assumed that it too lost its power, if it had any, when the One Ring was destroyed, since Saruman's craft of ring-making was still based on Sauron's. When Gandalf was given Narya, the Ring of Fire, Saruman learned of the gift and resented it. This may be another reason why Saruman desired to have a ring of his own.

===Personality===
Saruman resembled Gandalf not only in appearance, but originally also somewhat in deportment, but unlike Gandalf, Saruman was proud, even haughty. He saw himself as the most powerful of the Istari, expressing clear contempt for Radagast the Brown, patronising tolerance of The Wise and Elves, and sheer disdain for lesser men. Saruman was no fool (though he saw Radagast as one); he realised Gandalf's power, and eventually came to see him as an equal, and later as a superior, much to his distress. He became jealous of Gandalf, eventually convincing himself that Gandalf was scheming against him, which justified his own scheming against Gandalf and the rest of the White Council, and the people of Middle-earth as well. Saruman's ultimate agenda in the end was not very different at all from Sauron's.

Saruman likely was true to his mission in the beginning, and actually believed in working to stop the Darkness, but his pride and later arrogance (as well as his jealousy towards Gandalf and corruption by Sauron) turned him into a traitor to the cause he had once served. Saruman's betrayal was not sudden, but slowly grew over time as Sauron used Saruman's lust for power, admiration of strength and envy as tools of control, until at last Saruman had convinced himself that he could not have taken any other path and that it was too late now to repent. To the last Saruman only believed in his own counsel and the deceptive words of Sauron. This false beliefs kept him from taking his last chance at redemption, and because he must have realised this after Gandalf's truly generous terms he only became more bitter and filled with the rage of failure, blaming Gandalf more than anyone else for his downfall.

==Politics==

===Men===
Saruman "went mostly among men". He always sought power, and it lay in the hands of the kingdoms of Men.

No records speak of his earliest journeys into the east; after his return he became a servant of [[Gondor]], receiving the keys to Orthanc from Beren as its warden. When Gondor weakened, he claimed Orthanc for his own without any formal declaration (or objection from Gondor), yet remained nominally an ally of Gondor and of Rohan.

When he turned to treachery, Saruman employed men mainly from [[Dunland]], and agents from other lands, turning old grudges into fuel for new hatred. The Dunlendings were enticed with the old stories that they had once lived in [[Calenardhon]] before the ''Strawheads''. The Dunlendings became his soldiers and it also seems probable that he used some of them to create [[Half-orcs]].

Gríma Wormtongue played a vital role in Saruman's plans: with Saruman's counsel Gríma began to weaken the king, estranging him from his other counsellors and even his own kin, until Gríma had in effect become the leader of Rohan.

===Elves===
Saruman was once on good terms with the Elves, and was voted in as the leader of the White Council, a group of Elves and Istari united against Sauron.

Saruman knew that Gandalf had been given the third Elvish ring [[Narya]] by [[Círdan]] the Shipwright. This nurtured his jealousy of Gandalf and his resentment towards the Elves.

Saruman had little use for, or interest in, the Elves, who were declining and their lands were few and secretive; although they wielded marvellous powers and two Rings of Power, they were not useful nor accessible for Saruman's ambitions. Also, they succumbed less easily than other races to manipulation.

Even though Isengard lay very close to [[Lothlórien]], Saruman had very little or no contact with it. Saruman never trusted [[Galadriel]] and he accused her of scheming for Gandalf at his expense.<ref name=Partings/>

===Orcs===
Saruman drew his original strength of Orcs from tribes in the [[Misty Mountains]], and perhaps from Moria Orcs. He made use of [[Wargs|Warg]]-mounted Orcs for raids against Rohan.

He also bred [[Orcs of Isengard|Orcs]] in the pits of Isengard, eventually creating crossbreeds of Orcs and Men (probably [[Dunlendings]] or [[Bree-men]]). This programme apparently also involved feeding these greater Orcs Man-flesh as a treat.

His [[Uruk-hai]] legions displayed great discipline and fierce loyalty, in addition to the other improvements such as height, strength, endurance and resistance to sunlight. There also appears to have been middle stages between Men and the Uruk-hai, Men with varying degrees of Orkish appearance such as [[Half-orcs]] and [[Goblin-men]]. These were reported by Pippin and Merry to have been part of Saruman's regular army, but were not Uruk-hai, since the hobbits would have recognised these from their earlier capture.

Saruman's servants called him "[[Sharkey]]" both in Isengard and later in the Shire.

===Ents/Trees===
Saruman made contact with the Ents in [[Fangorn Forest]] shortly after he settled in [[Isengard]]. The oldest of the Ents, [[Treebeard]] received him and gave him free access to the forest.

Saruman also consulted with Treebeard, learning much old lore that the Ents would have remembered from ancient times. Saruman did not return this favour, but only listened.

The Ents saw Saruman's treachery early, and became very concerned, primarily with Saruman's Orcs felling trees on the edge of Fangorn for use in the furnaces of Isengard and sometimes for no reason at all.

The Ents also appear to have had a sense of order, how things should be, that Saruman encroached upon. The crossbreeding of Men and Orcs particularly alarmed them, out of proportion to other concerns enemies of Saruman might have had. Also alarming was the pure fact of his treachery — the Istari were supposed to have a special responsibility.

Saruman used the Ents and the Fangorn forest without concern for the consequences. He clearly misjudged the Ents' abilities and will to act. This might not have been as incautious as it seemed, since major contributing factors to the Ent's actions were advice and requests from Gandalf, and concern about the rising power of Sauron (and their wish to support the front-line troops of the war, Rohan and Gondor).

Saruman clearly had the ability to understand the minds of the Ents when he found it useful. He managed to talk Treebeard into setting him free from Orthanc by pushing just the right buttons — Ents dislike the concept of caging up any creature.

===Hobbits===
The race of [[Hobbits]] and their lands seemed too insignificant to interest Saruman: until he took notice of Gandalf's special concern for them. Studying Gandalf made him focus gradually more and more on the Hobbits and The Shire. For a period he actually travelled there in secret, mapping out the lands. Gandalf was aware of this, but at this point only amused.

He began smoking pipe-weed (a habit of the Hobbits that Gandalf had picked up), also in secret. His demand for tobacco opened up trading between The Shire and Isengard, and the power his money could wield there and the corruption it could cause began to fascinate him. Some of his agents went in secret, and some were known to Gandalf and the [[Rangers of the North|Rangers]].

His anger towards the Hobbits may possibly stem from the attention Gandalf showed them. It certainly strengthened immensely when he discovered that the Hobbits had "conspired" with Gandalf to keep [[the One Ring]] from him.

This, and the sudden urgency caused by the [[Nazgûl|Ringwraiths]]' hunt for the Ring-bearer from The Shire to Rivendell, made him increase his activity in the area, leading to a build-up of power that would lead to virtual conquest of The Shire.

He might also later have blamed the ruin of Isengard by the Ents on [[Peregrin Took]] and [[Meriadoc Brandybuck]], who clearly catalysed events.

This all came together when Saruman escaped from the Ents and retired to The Shire and his thug regime in place there. It appears he immediately switched the focus of this operation to wanton destruction: pollution, murder, fire, chopping down trees for no reason, a last blow against Hobbits and Gandalf.

At his final utter defeat by [[Battle of Bywater|a Hobbit uprising]], his life was spared even when he tried to assassinate [[Frodo Baggins]]. At this moment he actually conceded a short-lived respect to Frodo.

===Valar/Maiar/Wizards===
Saruman was supposedly eager to go to Middle-earth, against Manwë's counsel. After his 'death' he was apparently barred from returning to Valinor, and therefore was denied reincarnation and condemned to waft away and disappear like so much smoke. In his corrupt state, Saruman sought power and the imposing of order in Middle-earth by any means necessary, even if it meant betraying the mission he was entrusted with.

Sauron, in origin a Maia of Aulë like Saruman, awed and frightened him. During the height of his arrogance Saruman thought he could rival Sauron, but in the end he found himself meddling with a spirit of far greater power and knowledge than himself. Caught peering into the ''palantír'' he was seduced by Sauron to his allegiance, no longer opposing (and perhaps even desiring) his victory. Saruman sought to become a lieutenant almost-equal to his master and receive his favor in triumph, yet he was also a duplicitous servant by actively coveting the One Ring. After the failed attempt through the ambush at Amon Hen, Saruman understood the only paths ahead of him were to either show his master faith by crippling Rohan, hoping to at the very least be spared, or come to ruin and torment.

Saruman grudgingly brought with him Radagast as a companion from Valinor, at the request of [[Yavanna]], yet still managed to arrive alone, and first. Shortly after, he went into the East with the two [[Blue Wizards]], and later returned alone. There he may have wrought many great works to diminish the influence of the Enemy or searched for lore to help him in his schemes.

Radagast, even though Saruman scorned him, served both Gandalf and Saruman very usefully (and wholly unintentionally, as he admitted "he had just the wit to play the part I set him", that of persuading Gandalf to come to Isengard). Radagast also sent birds to Saruman and Gandalf to report the different happenings in Middle-earth.

Saruman had always been jealous of Gandalf, and knew that he was keeping secrets from him, such as his suspicion about [[The One Ring|Bilbo's Ring]] and [[Narya]], secret. Gandalf also suspected Saruman of plotting to gain the One Ring for himself, and hinted at this at a meeting of the White Council. Gandalf blew nine small smoke rings and one great one that wavered a bit, seeming almost palpable, and yet blew away, symbolising (almost prophetic of) Saruman's failure in achieving the One. In general, Saruman must have viewed Gandalf as his only peer, and as such to be feared and treated with (although not necessarily shown) respect. He always kept a watchful eye open for Gandalf's doings, and actually picked up the habit of smoking pipe-weed by sending out spies tailing Gandalf to the Shire. After revealing his fealty to Mordor and his desire for the Ring, Saruman offered Gandalf the chance to join with Sauron, or perhaps get the One for themselves. Ultimately, certain he Gandalf could be forced to tell of the Ring's whereabouts or that he could help Sauron win, he came to underestimate Gandalf and think little of his interventions.

Nevertheless, Saruman exercised more power than Gandalf, even with the ring Narya, as became clear when he placed Gandalf under arrest at the pinnacle of Orthanc. The text does not make it clear whether Saruman lost power or whether Gandalf gained power, but when Gandalf returned as "Gandalf [[the White]]", he could summon Saruman at his will, forcibly keep him in his presence, and finally break Saruman's staff (with whatever implications that might have had for Saruman's powers).

Despite his apparent disdain for the Grey Pilgrim, Saruman several times came very close to setting aside his pride and to asking Gandalf for pity and help. The closest call came when the [[Nazgûl|Ringwraiths]] (on their way to the Shire) arrived at Isengard while Gandalf still remained in captivity there. Saruman, realising he might have already lost Sauron's trust, actually went to seek Gandalf's pardon, only to find his erstwhile captive missing from the top of Orthanc.

===Animals===
Saruman had control over many birds, probably having been taught to tame them by Radagast. Crebain spied for him and brought him news. In addition, the Orcs Saruman took in his armies had amongst them wild [[wolves]] and even [[Wargs]], a sort of demonic cousin of the former.

==Etymology==
''Saruman'' is a [[Mannish]] translation of [[Quenya]] ''[[Curumo]]'', his original name in [[Valinor]] as a Maia; and [[Sindarin]] ''[[Curunír]]'' which is supposedly the same name (with the ending ''[[dîr|-ndîr]]'' "man"). All names mean "Skilled Man" or "Cunning One" (root ''[[curu]]'' "skill").<ref name=RC81>{{HM|RC}}, p. 81</ref><ref>{{webcite|author=[[Helge Fauskanger]]|articleurl=http://folk.uib.no/hnohf/quen-eng.htm|articlename=Quettaparma Quenyallo|website=Arda}}</ref><ref>{{webcite|author=[[Didier Willis]], ed.|articleurl=http://www.jrrvf.com/hisweloke/sindar/online/sindar/dict-sd-en.html|articlename=Hiswelókë's Sindarin dictionary|website=[http://www.jrrvf.com/hisweloke/ Hiswelókë]}}</ref>

''Saruman'' is derived from [[Old English]]: the root word ''searu'' means "device, design, contrivance, art" and the whole name means "man of skill".<ref name=RC81/>

His name in [[Sindarin]] was ''Curunír 'Lân''.<ref name=Istari/>

==Other versions of the legendarium==
In the earlier versions of ''The Lord of the Rings'', Saruman was sketched merely as Sauron's fawning servant, while the army he musters is not in rivalry of Mordor's but from the beginning in his new master's employ. In other drafts, the treacherous wizard hands Gandalf over to the evil [[Giants|Giant]] Treebeard or betrays him to the Black Riders. <ref>{{TI|VII}}</ref>

Saruman's older names in these drafts were Sarumond and Saramund,<ref name=rc>{{HM|RC}}, p. xxiii</ref> containing the english term ''mund'' "hand".

==Inspiration==
Saruman was invented and introduced in the story in order to explain Gandalf's absence in the first part of ''The Lord of the Rings'', replacing Treebeard as the wizard's captor. <ref name=rc/>

As a scholar, Tolkien would also have been well aware of the name of a similarly-named historic 'head of his order', Jaruman.

==Portrayal in adaptations==
{{Gallery
|title=Saruman in adaptations
|height=150
|width=250
|File:The Lord of the Rings (1978 film) - Saruman.jpg|Saruman in [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]
|lines=2
|File:The Lord of the Rings (film series) - Saruman using Palantír.jpg|[[Christopher Lee]] as Saruman in [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (film series)]]
|File:LOTRO-Rise of Isengard-Saruman-1.png|Saruman in ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]''
|File:Lego - Saruman minifigure.jpg|Saruman in [[Lego]] form
}}

===Films===
'''1978: [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]:'''
:[[Fraser Kerr]] provided the voice of Saruman. From early on in the production, it was decided that "Saruman" and "Sauron" sounded too much alike, and might confuse viewers. On concept art, Saruman is called "Ruman",<ref>[http://www.ralphbakshi.com/gallery/displayimage.php?album=5&pos=69 1978 - The Lord of the Rings Gallery] at [http://www.ralphbakshi.com Ralphbakshi.com] (accessed 26 March 2011)</ref> but prior to recording, this was changed to "Aruman". However, during recording, it was again changed, to "Saruman". Because of this late change, several instances of "Aruman" remain in the finished film.

'''2001-03: [[The Lord of the Rings (film series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (film series)]]:'''
:Saruman was played by [[Christopher Lee]]. Saruman's depiction in the series is more akin to the early drafts, in that he is a more willing and trustworthy servant of Sauron (though he still instructs [[Lurtz]] to bring him the hobbits carrying "something of great value"). The films did not include the [[Scouring of the Shire]], so Saruman's last appearance was in Isengard, during his encounter with Gandalf and Théoden. In the [[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (extended edition)|extended edition of ''The Return of the King'']], Gríma stabs Saruman in the back, causing him to fall on a spiked wheel below the tower of Orthanc.

'''2012-14: [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'' (film series)]]:'''
:[[Christopher Lee]] reprised his role as Saruman, although the character does not appear in the book.<ref name="TelegraphCasting">{{webcite|articleurl=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/film/film-news/8311016/Christopher-Lee-will-star-in-the-Hobbit-prequel.html|articlename=Christopher Lee will star in the Hobbit prequel|dated=08-Feb-2011|website=[http://www.telegraph.co.uk/ The Telegraph]|accessed=21-Dec-2011}}</ref> He appears as part of the [[White Council]] alongside [[Gandalf]], [[Galadriel]] and [[Elrond]]. He is sceptical about the appearance of a [[Sauron#Sauron's Return|Necromancer]] in [[Dol Guldur]]. However, when he participates in the [[attack on Dol Guldur]], he sees for himself that Sauron has indeed returned. After the skirmish, he appears shaken by the display of Sauron's power, but claims he will take it upon himself to keep an eye on the Dark Lord and pretends to care for Lady Galadriel's weakened state.

===Television===
'''1993: [[Hobitit|''Hobitit'']]:'''
:Saruman was played by actor Mikko Kivinen. He appears only in episode "Vanha metsä" ("Old Forest").

===Radio series===
'''1955: [[The Lord of the Rings (1955 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1955 radio series)]]:'''
:The voice of Saruman is provided by [[Robert Farquharson]].

'''1979: [[The Lord of the Rings (1979 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1979 radio series)]]:'''
:The voice of Saruman is provided by [[James Arrington]].

'''1981: [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1981 radio series)]]:'''
:[[Peter Howell]] played Saruman. Because the series follows a chronological timeline rather than the flashbacks of the books, Saruman's betrayal is brought out much sooner than in the book. Excerpts from [[The Hunt for the Ring]] are dramatised to flesh out Gandalf's escape from Isengard, and the Nazgul's pursuit. In the final episode Saruman's death at the hands of Wormtongue at Bag End is included.

'''1992: [[Der Herr der Ringe (1992 German radio series)|''Der Herr der Ringe'' (1992 German radio series)]]:'''
:Saruman is played by Manfred Steffen.

'''2001-2003: [[Pán prsteňov (2001-2003 Slovak radio series)|''Pán prsteňov'' (2001-2003 Slovak radio series)]]:'''
:The voice of Saruman is provided by Andrej Hryc. Saruman appears in all three series (seasons) of this adaptation, with his most prominent appearances in the episodes covering ''The Two Towers''.

===Games===
'''2003: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King'' (video game)]]:'''
:Though Christopher Lee provided the voice of Saruman for many scenes, the only visual appearance of the Wizard of from re-used movie clips, his voice is played over several Gandalf's actions though.

'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War of the Ring]]'':'''
:Saruman is one of the "Hero" units of the Servants of Sauron, the game also depicts his creation of the Uruk-hai.

'''2004: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth]]'':'''
:Saruman is the main "Hero" unit of Isengard faction, the evil campaign follows his despoilment of both Isengard and the Fangorn Forest, war on Rohan and later conquest of the outlying lands.

'''2006: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth II]]'':'''
:Saruman is still the main "Hero" unit of Isengard faction, but plays no role in the storyline.

'''2011: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Rise of Isengard]]'':'''

: Through frequently referred to in-game since 2007, Saruman made no visual appearance until 2011 and the ''Rise of Isengard'' expansion. Many quests in the game display the stretch of the White Hand - Saruman's minions are present in Shire as early as {{TA|3018}}, as well as [[Bree-land]], [[Lone-lands]], [[Eregion]], [[Enedwaith]], [[Dunland]], [[Gap of Rohan]], outskirts of the [[Fangorn Forest]] and even [[Moria]].
:In the storyline of ''Rise of Isengard'' Saruman first appears buying the loyalties of the Dunlending clans, bringing with him riches and maintaining a friendly appearance. He also still keeps his affairs in Rohan private, to the point that when a Rohirrim questions the desolation of [[Nan Curunír]] and the presence of Trolls in Isengard, the Wizard manages to use his voice to convince him that it was all for the good cause. At one point, traitorous Dunlendings capture the player and send him to Saruman as a gift - once again the Wizard maintains a friendly and noble appearance, trying to discern the location of The Ring, before the player escapes.
:A major storyline is derived from a single line in ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', where Saruman calls himself "Ring-forger". Long having researched the Rings of Power, Saruman sends his minions to pillage what remains of Ring-Forges of Eregion, looking for any knowledge of ancient Elven smiths that have remained here. Using that lore, he constructs a massive Ring-Forge under Isengard, where he creates five lesser rings and a master one to command them. He keeps the master ring to himself and gives the other to his most trusted lieutenants, though none of the mortals are prepared for it and are turned into monstrosities. A large forces of players defeats them one by one, reclaiming lesser rings and later uses those rings to turn upon the master one. In the ensuing fight Saruman's ring is destroyed shortly before the Battle of Hornburg, and with it the lesser ones lose their power.

'''2014: [[Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor]]:'''
:Voiced by [[Roger Jackson]], Saruman appears in this game as a non-playable character. The game's protagonist, Talion, finds various artefacts that reveal that Saruman's spies are active within the borders of [[Mordor]] in the years between ''[[The Hobbit]]'' and ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]''. It is later revealed that Saruman was controlling Queen Marwen of the [[Nurnen]] to hinder Sauron while bringing about the destruction of the men of [[Nurn]].

==See also==
* [[:Category:Images of Saruman|Images of Saruman]]

{{References}}

{{Ainur}}
{{hobbitfilms}}
[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]
[[Category:Characters in The Silmarillion]]
[[Category:Maiar]]
[[Category:Old English names]]
[[Category:Third Age characters]]
[[Category:Wizards]]
[[Category:Servants of Sauron]]

[[de:Saruman]]
[[fr:/encyclo/personnages/ainur/maiar/istari/saruman]]
[[fi:Saruman]]

Gandalf

2021-09-26T07:04:20Z

Protospace: + info with sources; tweak structure

{{Countdown}}
{{disambig-more|Gandalf|[[Gandalf (disambiguation)]]}}
{{maiar infobox
| name=Gandalf
| image=[[File:Matt Stewart - Gandalf - A Light in the Dark.jpg|250px]]
| caption="A Light in the Dark" by [[:Category:Images by Matt Stewart|Matt Stewart]]
| pronun=
| othernames=[[Gandalf/Names#The Grey|The Grey]], [[The White]], [[Gandalf/Names#Olórin|Olórin]], [[Gandalf/Names#Mithrandir|Mithrandir]], [[Gandalf/Names#Incánus|Incánus]], [[Gandalf/Names#Tharkûn|Tharkûn]], [[Gandalf/Names#The White Rider|The White Rider]], [[Gandalf/Names#Greyhame|Greyhame]], [[Gandalf/Names#Stormcrow|Stormcrow]], [[Gandalf/Names#Old Grey Beard|Old Grey Beard]], [[Gandalf/Names#Big Grey Beard|Big Grey Beard]], [[Gandalf/Names#The White Pilgrim|The White Pilgrim]], [[Gandalf/Names#Láthspell|Láthspell]]
| titles=
| position=
| location=No fixed abode
| affiliation=[[Heren Istarion]] (Wizards) [[White Council]] [[Thorin and Company]] [[Fellowship of the Ring]]
| language=
| birth=[[Creation of the Ainur]]
| birthlocation=
| rule=
| sailedwest=[[29 September]] {{TA|3021}}
| sailedfrom=[[Grey Havens]]
| age=
| notablefor=
| house=
| parentage=
| siblings=
| gender=Male
| height=5'6"<ref name="MB">{{HM|MB}}, page 49</ref>
| hair=Long white, silver beard<ref name="Meetings">{{FR|Meetings}}</ref>
| eyes=
| clothing=Grey robes (later white), blue hat, grey scarf, black boots<ref name="Party"/>
| weapons=Staff [[Glamdring]] [[Narya]]
| steed=[[Shadowfax]]
}}
{{Quote|Gandalf was shorter in stature than the [[Elrond|other]] [[Glorfindel|two]]; but his long white hair, his sweeping silver beard, and his broad shoulders, made him look like some wise king of ancient legend. In his aged face under great snowy brows his eyes were set like coals that could suddenly burst into fire.|''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]'', "[[Many Meetings]]"}}

'''Gandalf''' was one of the five [[Wizards|Istari]] sent to [[Middle-earth]] by the [[Valar]] in the [[Third Age]]. In [[Valinor]] he was known as Olórin. Gandalf was instrumental in bringing about the demise of [[Sauron]] in {{TA|3019}}, chiefly by encouraging others and dispensing his wisdom at pivotal times. Gandalf was originally robed in grey, and second to [[Saruman]] in the Order of [[wizards]]. After his fall in [[Moria]], Gandalf returned to Middle-earth as head of the Order, robed in white. Gandalf was noteworthy for his keen interest in [[Hobbits]].

==History==
===Early history===
The wisest of the Maiar, Gandalf was created by [[Ilúvatar]] before the [[Music of the Ainur]].<ref name="Ainu">{{S|Ainu}}</ref> At the beginning of Time, he was amongst the [[Ainur]] who entered into [[Eä]].<ref name="SVala">{{S|Vala}}</ref> In his "youth" he was known as '''''Olórin''''' and lived in [[Lórien]]. Yet his ways often took him to Nienna, from whom he learned pity and patience.<ref name=vala>{{S|IIc}}, p. 316</ref> He became one of the [[Maiar]] who served [[Manwë]], [[Varda]], [[Irmo]] and [[Nienna]] named. He was associated with light and fire, much like his peer Varda.

After the Valar discovered the primeval [[Elves]] at [[Cuiviénen]], Olórin was sent there with several other Maiar to guard the Elves from the forces of [[Melkor]].<ref>{{NM|P1xiii}}, p. 95</ref> It is unclear how long he remained or if he accompanied the [[Eldar]] on the [[Great Journey]]. But it is said he loved the Elves, and throughout his early life, he walked [[unseen]] among them, or wore a [[fana]] that appeared like an Elf, and he sent them fair visions in their hearts that made them wiser. Throughout his existence, he followed the example of Nienna, taking pity on the sorrows of the [[Children of Ilúvatar]] and driving those who listened to him out of despair.<ref name=vala/>

===Third Age===
====Arrival in Middle-earth====
During the [[Third Age]], while [[Sauron]]'s 'dark spirit of malice' was increasing over [[Middle-earth]], the Valar chose the [[Istari]], missionaries from among the Maiar to go and help the [[Portal:Characters|peoples]]. [[Manwë]] selected Olórin, who, at first, did not wish to go, as he feared Sauron. However, Manwë said that it was all the more reason why he should go.<ref name="Istari">{{UT|13}}</ref> Furthermore, [[the One Ring]], the location of much of Sauron's power, presumably still existed somewhere in Middle-earth.

Olórin submitted to the will of Manwë and departed Valinor to [[Mithlond]] in the year {{TA|1000}}.<ref name="Istari"/> He arrived shortly after two other Istari, [[Curumo]] and [[Aiwendil]], at about the same time the [[Necromancer]] appeared in [[Mirkwood]]. Like the other Wizards, took the shape of an old man. He was robed in grey.

At Mithlond he was welcomed by [[Glorfindel]], his friend from Valinor who was sent to Middle-earth earlier on a similar mission, and [[Círdan]] the shipwright, who possessed [[Narya]], one of the [[Three Rings|Three]] Elven [[Rings of Power]]. Círdan divined in Olórin a sense of strength and power despite his appearance as a bent and aged old man. Círdan gave Narya to Olórin with a prediction of his future struggles with evil, and a promise that it would support and aid him in his labours. Then Círdan said "''But as for me, my heart is with the [[Belegaer|Sea]], and I will dwell by the grey shores until the last ship sails. I will await you.''"<ref name="ThirdAge">{{App|B2}}</ref>

[[File:John Howe - Gandalf the Grey.jpg|thumb|''Gandalf the Grey'' by [[John Howe]]]]
Gandalf then began his sojourn in Middle-earth, going about as a wanderer and counsellor. Unlike Saruman, Gandalf did not take up a single permanent residence. Gandalf never went to the [[east]]<ref>"To the East I go not"</ref> and apparently restricted his activities to the [[Westlands]] of Middle-earth, where the remnants of the [[Dúnedain]] and the [[Eldar]] remained to oppose Sauron. He was known by many names during the long years he remained in Middle-earth: Elves named him ''[[Gandalf/Names#Mithrandir|Mithrandir]]'', the Grey Pilgrim, while the men of [[Arnor]] named him '''Gandalf''', which became his most common name. He was also known as ''[[Gandalf/Names#Incánus|Incánus]]'' in the south, and ''[[Gandalf/Names#Tharkûn|Tharkûn]]'' to the [[Dwarves]].<ref name="Istari"/>

A legend says that Gandalf was given by [[Yavanna]] the [[Elfstone]] of [[Eärendil]], to bring to the peoples of Middle-earth as a token that the Valar had not forsaken them. He gave it to [[Galadriel]], and remarked prophetically that she would in turn pass it to an individual who would also be called [[Aragorn|Elessar]].<ref>{{UT|6}}</ref>

====Early vigilance====
Around {{TA|1100}},<ref name="ThirdAge"/> the Istari and the Eldar discovered that some evil entity resided at [[Dol Guldur]] in Mirkwood. Dark shapes moved in the forest and evil began to multiply in the woods. Some thought a [[Nazgûl]] had returned to torment the world, or some new evil was arising. Gandalf was unsure, and feared that perhaps Sauron himself might have returned.<ref name="Rings">{{S|Rings}}</ref>
[[File:John Howe - Pass the Doors of Dol Guldur.jpg|thumb|left|''Pass the Doors of Dol Guldur'' by [[John Howe]]]]
Over the next two hundred years the evil continued to grow, as well as the source directing it. [[Orcs]] were multiplying in the [[Misty Mountains]] and elsewhere. The [[Witch-king]], the mightiest of the Nazgûl, had built a fortress in [[Angmar]] in the Northern wastelands and waged unending war against the Kingdom of [[Arnor]]. Meanwhile [[Moria]] and [[Minas Ithil]] fell under a shadow, while other wars, plagues, and catastrophes occurred across Middle-earth. Gandalf went to Dol Guldur in {{TA|2063|n}} to discover its secret.<ref name="ThirdAge"/> An entity known only as the '[[Necromancer]]' fled before him preventing Gandalf from identifying him.<ref name="Rings"/> After Gandalf's incursion, the evil there seemed to desist, and its absence allowed for some centuries of calmness.

That peaceful period was known as the [[Watchful Peace]] and lasted for almost four hundred years, but the Nazgûl had used this period to prepare for Sauron's return, in {{TA|2460|n}}.<ref name="ThirdAge"/> Realising the returning evil, the [[Wise]] formed the [[White Council]] three years later. [[Galadriel]], bearer of one of the Three Elven Rings and mighty among the Eldar, wished Gandalf to be the chief of the Council, but he refused the position wishing to set down no roots and to maintain his independence; Saruman took this place because of his vast knowledge.<ref name="Rings"/>

During his wanderings in [[Eriador]], Gandalf met and befriended the isolated and secretive people of the [[Hobbits]] in their country, [[The Shire]]. During the [[Long Winter]] of {{TA|2758|n}} Gandalf came to their aid.<ref name="ThirdAge"/> It was then when he witnessed and admired the pity and courage the humble Hobbits reserved in their hearts.<ref name="Erebor"/>

When King [[Thráin|Thráin II]], a dwarf of the royal line of [[Lonely Mountain]], disappeared on journey to [[Erebor]], Gandalf looked for him. At some point after {{TA|2845|n}} he entered the abandoned city of Khazad-dûm. After his vain search the Wizard exited through the [[Doors of Durin]]; however this experience did not help him know how to open the doors from the outside.<ref name=journey>{{FR|Journey}}</ref>

In {{TA|2850|n}}, his quest led him once more to Dol Guldur, this time in secrecy.<ref name="ThirdAge"/> He found Thráin in the dungeons, who gave the Wizard his last possessions, the [[Thrór's Map|map]] and key to Erebor<ref name="Durin">{{App|Durin}}</ref>. Most importantly, he found that the Necromancer was no Nazgûl – it was Sauron himself, and he had taken [[Ring of Thrór|the last]] of the [[Seven Rings]] from the Dwarf King; Sauron was gathering the remaining [[Rings of Power]] and possibly searching for his lost [[The One Ring|One Ring]].

Gandalf escaped Dol Guldur and returned to the White Council.<ref name="Rings"/> After relating his discoveries, he urged the council to attack Sauron while the One Ring was still lost and Sauron's power immature. But Saruman said that it was better to watch and wait; that the One Ring had long ago rolled from [[Anduin]] to the Sea. The majority of the council agreed with Saruman. [[Elrond]] Half-elven, a powerful member of the council, later privately told Gandalf he had a foreboding that the Ring would be found, and that the war to end the [[Ages|Age]] was coming. Indeed, he added, he feared that it would end in darkness and despair. Gandalf encouraged him, saying there were many "strange chances," and that, "''help oft shall come from the hands of the weak''". Gandalf did not yet realise that Saruman now wanted the ring for himself and was secretly searching for it along the banks of river Anduin.

====The Quest for Erebor====
Gandalf would visit the Shire occasionally and participate in the [[Midsummer]]-eve parties of the [[Old Took]] where he impressed young Hobbits with his fireworks, and his stories about [[Dragons]], [[Orcs#Orcs and Goblins|Goblins]] and princesses.<ref name="Erebor"/> He was thus known to be "responsible for so many quiet lads and lasses going off into the Blue for mad adventures". He also met a relatively adventurous Hobbit named [[Bilbo Baggins]] although he was far from "adventuresome."<ref name="Party"/>

Gandalf was concerned about the weak state of the North. [[Smaug]] the [[Dragons|Dragon]] had destroyed both the [[Kingdom under the Mountain]] and the town of [[Dale]], and Gandalf feared that [[Sauron]] might use the desolation around Erebor to regain the northern passes in the mountains and the old lands of Angmar. Gandalf knew that exiled Dwarf [[King of Durin's Folk]] [[Thorin Oakenshield]] planned to battle against Smaug, but he knew that it would not be enough. In {{TA|2941|n}},<ref name="ThirdAge"/> while staying the night in [[Bree]], Gandalf happened across the Dwarf King.<ref name="Erebor">{{UT|Erebor}}</ref> Thorin initiated conversation; he had been having a strange feeling urging him to seek Gandalf. Gandalf was intrigued, for he had thought to seek Thorin as well. They found they were taking the same road for a while (Thorin passing through [[the Shire]] on his way to the [[Blue Mountains|Ered Luin]]), and they agreed to travel together. Thorin wanted advice, and Gandalf in turn wanted to discuss the Dragon Smaug with Thorin.
[[File:David T. Wenzel - Good Morning Mr. Baggins.jpg|thumb|''Good Morning Mr. Baggins'' by [[David T. Wenzel]]]]
Ultimately, Gandalf concocted a plan wherein Thorin could destroy Smaug and recover his family fortune, albeit with a "burglar" of Gandalf's own choosing. Gandalf had a feeling that a Hobbit should be involved, and he remembered Bilbo Baggins. At first he found only [[Holman Cotton]] as Bilbo had left on the occasion of the [[Yestare|Elven new year]], something that persuaded Gandalf that Bilbo was the right person for the job.<ref name="Erebor"/> He visited Bilbo later, bringing along the kinsmen of Thorin.<ref name="Party">{{H|Party}}</ref> In the end Gandalf convinced the reluctant Baggins to become a burglar for Thorin. Gandalf then accompanied [[Thorin and Company]] to [[Rivendell]]. During the journey Gandalf was instrumental in saving the travellers' lives from several calamities.

Gandalf saved them from a trio of [[Stone-trolls]], and later obtained the legendary sword [[Glamdring]] from their [[Trolls|Troll]]-hoard; Gandalf bore it thenceforth.<ref name="Mutton">{{H|Mutton}}</ref> He also helped Thorin and Company through the [[Misty Mountains]]; when unknowingly they camped in the [[Front Porch]] of the [[Goblin-town]] the Goblins captured the whole company except Gandalf, who surprised them much later, killing the [[Great Goblin]] and then leading the Dwarves to the exit.<ref name="Hill">{{H|Hill}}</ref> It was during this time that Bilbo obtained a "magic ring".<ref name="Riddles">{{H|Riddles}}</ref> Bilbo initially claimed he "won" it from the creature "[[Gollum]]" while the company was under the Misty Mountains.<ref name="Pan">{{H|Pan}}</ref> The ring conferred invisibility on Bilbo when he wore it, and he kept it secret from Gandalf for some time.
[[File:Darrell Sweet - The Lord of the Eagles.jpg|thumb|''The Lord of the Eagles'' by [[Darrell Sweet]]]]
On their escape out, the Company was saved by the [[Eagles]] of the Misty Mountains; Gandalf once had healed the [[Great Eagle]] from a poisoned wound, and thenceforth they became friends. The Eagles picked them up to their eyrie, and the next day they dropped them to the other side of the Mountains.<ref name="Pan"/>

Gandalf then sought the hospitality of [[Beorn]], persuading him to welcome and host the whole Company in his [[Beorn's Hall|hall]]. But then he left the quest prior to its completion; after leading the Company to the outskirts of the [[Forest Gate]], he gave them some final advice (but little did he know that the lands had changed by then) before they'd enter [[Mirkwood]], and went to attend other obligations.<ref>{{H|Queer}}</ref> The [[White Council]] had met under the gravest of circumstances: Sauron's vast power was returning, even without his Ring. Gandalf at last convinced the Council to attack Dol Guldur, to which even Saruman agreed (as by now he feared Sauron as a rival, and wished to delay his search for the Ring). Gandalf joined his peers in assailing [[Dol Guldur]], ridding [[Mirkwood]] of the Necromancer's presence, who fled to [[Mordor]].<ref name="ThirdAge">{{App|B2}}</ref> When he was about to finish his task, news about what happened to Thorin's Company in Mirkwood reached him, and realised that the instructions he gave did not help them; they had lost their way, and then vanished from the imprisonment of the [[Silvan Elves|Wood-elves]], who had captured them. He was anxious to get back to them as soon as possible.<ref>{{H|Welcome}}</ref>

Meanwhile Thorin's quest was successful: Erebor was retaken and Smaug was killed,<ref name="Fire">{{H|Fire}}</ref> but when Gandalf finally arrived to the area, he found the [[Dwarves of Erebor]] and [[Dwarves of the Iron Hills|the Iron Hills]] preparing for an attack by the [[Lake-men]] and the [[Elves of Mirkwood]]. He was with [[Bard]] and [[Thranduil]] and revealed his presence trying to reason with Thorin. When the attack was beginning, Gandalf halted them, to warn that the [[Orcs]] and [[Wargs]] were coming to claim the treasure. He invited [[Dáin Ironfoot]] for council, and soon Dwarves, Elves and Men formed an alliance, and defeated the [[Orcs of the Misty Mountains]] in the [[Battle of Five Armies]].<ref name="Burst">{{H|Burst}}</ref>

King Thorin was mortally wounded and after his funeral and the reestablishment of Erebor under Dáin, Bilbo and Gandalf followed their way back; they celebrated [[Yule]] at Beorn's, and then returned to Rivendell, where he discussed with [[Elrond]] the events of Dol Guldur and the Lonely Mountain. Gandalf had accomplished his immediate goal, which was to destroy Smaug, who could have been used to disastrous effect by Sauron. A large number of Orcs and Wargs also were killed in the North, removing threats to Rivendell and Lothlórien.<ref name="Erebor"/> But they both agreed that it would be better if the Necromancer were banished from the world altogether.<ref name="H19">{{H|19}}</ref>

As Gandalf and Bilbo passed by the site of their former encounter with the stone-trolls, they made sure to recover the gold of the troll-hoard they had buried.<ref name="H19"/>

Gandalf, for his part, found himself amazed by the hobbit; until then the wise had paid no attention to hobbits and knew little of them. For the rest of his sojourn in Middle-earth, Gandalf took a special interest in hobbits, and particularly in the Baggins family. [[Third Age 2949|Years later]] he and Balin paid a visit to Bilbo, discussing the news from Erebor and Dale.<ref name="ThirdAge"/><ref name="H19"/>

====The Return of the Shadow====
Despite the Council's hopes, Sauron was not weakened by this attack. He had foreseen the move that drove him from Mirkwood, and his retreat was but a feint. Ten years after the attack, Sauron declared himself openly in Mordor in {{TA|2951|n}} and rebuilt the [[Barad-dûr]]. The White Council met for one last time in {{TA|2953|n}} to debate about the [[Rings of Power]]. Saruman quieted his peers claiming to have the knowledge that the One Ring was lost in the [[Belegaer]]. After their meeting, Saruman, jealous and afraid of Gandalf, set spies to watch all his movements; this would affect the peaceful Hobbits, as Saruman thus discovered the existence and noted Gandalf's interest in the Shire, and started sending agents in [[Bree]] and the [[Southfarthing]].<ref name="ThirdAge"/>

[[Gollum]] had come to Gandalf's knowledge, having left his hideout and looked for the thief of his ring; Bilbo. Gandalf's friends, the [[Elves of Mirkwood]], had informed him that Gollum was traversing the forest and then, coinciding with Sauron's declaration, Gollum apparently turned to [[Mordor]] and was lost. Gandalf neglected the matter because he "had much else to think of at that time" and still trusted Saruman's knowledge. Later Gandalf would regret this.<ref name=shadow/>

Meanwhile Sauron began reassembling his forces for the final blow against the hated West. [[Easterlings]] from [[Khand]] and beyond the [[Sea of Rhûn]], joined by men from [[Harad]] reinforced his stronghold in [[Mordor]]; Orcs, trolls, and other foul beasts were multiplying while his minions were searching the Anduin for any sign of his precious One Ring.

Gandalf met [[Aragorn]], the hidden [[Heir of Isildur]] in {{TA|2956|n}}, and soon became friends with him. From that point on Aragorn and Gandalf often worked together towards a common end - the defeat of Sauron.

He visited [[Minas Tirith]] and was welcomed by [[Faramir]], the son of the [[Ruling Steward]] [[Denethor]], and taught him from his wisdom; displeasing his father who didn't trust Gandalf.<ref>{{App|Stewards}}</ref>

[[File:Darrell Sweet - The Arrival of Gandalf.jpg|thumb|right|200px|''The Arrival of Gandalf'' by [[Darrell Sweet]]]]
During this period Gandalf visited the Shire frequently, especially his friend Bilbo Baggins, and his younger cousin, [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]]. He noted Bilbo's unusual youthfulness, despite his advancing age; the suspicious "[[The One Ring|magic ring]]" that Bilbo had acquired during his adventure began to weigh on his mind. Gandalf recalled the deceit Bilbo used in originally claiming it for his own-- Bilbo had later admitted to stealing it from [[Gollum]]. Gandalf could see that Bilbo was now very preoccupied with the ring. Such un-hobbitlike behaviour aroused his suspicions. In {{TA|3001|n}} he organised [[Bilbo's Farewell Party]], and before leaving the Shire, he convinced Bilbo to leave the Ring for Frodo. He then emphatically warned Frodo not to use it; Gandalf had begun to suspect that the "magic ring" was indeed a ring of power. <ref name=party>{{FR|Party}}</ref> Around that time Gandalf became unpopular in the Shire, blamed for Bilbo's disappearance, even accused for plotting with Frodo to get a hold on his wealth.<ref name=party/><Ref name=shadow>{{FR|Shadow}}</ref>

Keen now to find out more about Bilbo's ring, he changed his plans; he said goodbye to Frodo and left<ref name=party/> deciding to resume his search for Gollum. For this he sought the help of [[Aragorn]], and the [[Rangers of the North]] were put to guard the Shire more closely.<ref name="ThirdAge"/> Gandalf showed up only [[Third Age 3004|three years later]] to check on him and the Shire, and continued for the next four years always unexpectedly and disappearing before dawn. In {{TA|3009|n}} he renewed the hunt for [[Gollum]] with Aragorn, searching in the [[vales of Anduin]], [[Mirkwood]], [[Rhovanion]], even to the confines of Mordor; the quest lasted eight years, not knowing that Gollum had been captured by Sauron.<ref name="ThirdAge"/> Gandalf regretted for having let Gollum for so many years, as his trail by now had been cold, resulting to many dark and dangerous days for Gandalf.<ref name=shadow/>

Studying the records in [[Minas Tirith]], he found the [[Scroll of Isildur]] and pieced together the missing history of the One Ring; on his way back to the Shire he got word from the [[Galadhrim]] that Aragorn had finally captured Gollum and he went to [[Mirkwood]] to meet him. For days he interrogated him in order to verify what he already knew, in {{TA|3017|n}}. A great fear came over him when he learned that Gollum had been to the Barad-dûr. Sauron had tortured Gollum and learned not only of the "magic ring", but also the names "Shire" and "Baggins". And the effects that Gandalf had seen on Gollum and Bilbo convinced him that the ring of the story was not one of the [[Rings of Power]]: it was the One Ruling Ring of Sauron. Gandalf now returned in haste to the Shire.<ref name=shadow/><ref name=council>{{FR|Council}}</ref>

====The War of the Ring====
[[File:Alan Lee - The Shadow of the Past.jpg|thumb|''The Shadow of the Past'' by [[Alan Lee]]]]
After Gandalf's fears were confirmed, he returned to the Shire in [[12 April]] {{TA|3018}} and told to Frodo about the [[Rings of Power]], and proved to him that Bilbo's was the ancient [[One Ring]] which the Dark Power of [[Mordor]] is looking, and Frodo should leave as soon as possible. Gandalf also told Frodo that he gathered this information from the creature Gollum, to which Frodo exclaimed that he should have been killed. Gandalf speculated that perhaps Gollum would have a part to play before the end, and in any case, it was not for them to decide who should live and who should die.<ref>{{FR|Shadow}}</ref>

Gandalf suggested that he should take the Ring to [[Rivendell]] soon, and Frodo decided to leave on his next birthday, pretending to be moving to [[Buckland]], to which Gandalf agreed. He stayed in the Shire for over two months,<ref name=three>{{FR|Three}}</ref> during which, on [[1 May]] he went to [[Sarn Ford]] and met again Aragorn, informing him of Frodo's plans.<ref>{{FR|Strider}}</ref> He had a sense of foreboding and heard [[Sauron's attack on Osgiliath|disturbing news about war]] in [[Gondor]] and a [[Black Shadow]].<ref name=council/> He decided to leave for the South and left Frodo, promising to return for his birthday-farewell party in autumn, so that they would go to Rivendell together.<ref name=three/>

He started wandering around [[Eriador]] hearing news from the refugees who had a fear they couldnot speak about, until he met [[Radagast]] who brought a message of [[Saruman]] that he must seek him at once; and a warning that the [[Ringwraiths]] are looking for the Shire.<ref name=council/> He went to [[the Prancing Pony]] at [[Bree]]. Believing that he would not be able to return to Frodo in time, he wrote [[Gandalf's letter|a letter]], urging him to move as soon as possible for Rivendell, and seek someone "Strider" whose real name is Aragorn, with a [[The Riddle of Strider|riddle]] to identify him; Gandalf would then try to catch up with them when available. He also instructed [[Barliman Butterbur]] to send the letter to [[Hobbiton]] and to expect a Mr. [[Baggins]] that will come under the name of "[[Mr. Underhill]]". He left the inn, but Barliman would forget to send the letter.<ref>{{FR|Strider}}</ref>

=====The Treachery of Saruman=====
[[File:Ted Nasmith - Gandalf Escapes Upon Gwaihir.jpg|thumb|left|''Gandalf Escapes Upon Gwaihir'' by [[Ted Nasmith]]]]
Soon thereafter Gandalf arrived at Isengard. At their meeting, Saruman at last revealed his desire for the One Ring. He offered to his "''old friend and helper''" that they take the Ring for themselves and seize power from Sauron. Gandalf rejected this with horror, and was imprisoned by Saruman on the pinnacle of [[Orthanc]]. [[Gwaihir]], chief of the Eagles, soon arrived and helped Gandalf escape. Gandalf knew he must return quickly to the Shire, as Frodo (and the ring) were in grave danger from both Sauron's Nazgûl and now Saruman's treacherous desire for the ring.

Gandalf hurriedly went to [[Rohan]], desiring to find a strong steed; there he obtained [[Shadowfax]] from King [[Théoden]], who later resented the gift. This lord of horses and Gandalf forged a special bond, and Gandalf made quick use of Shadowfax's incredible strength and endurance.

Gandalf sped to the Shire. Fortunately, Frodo had already left the Shire without waiting for Gandalf, and was seeking the refuge of [[Rivendell]]. Upon arrival Gandalf learned that the Nazgûl, arrayed as [[Nazgûl|Black Riders]], had been searching the area. Dismayed, he set out for Bree; Barliman apologised to Gandalf for forgetting to send the letter, worried that the hobbits had left with Strider, the suspicious [[Rangers of the North|Ranger]]. But for Gandalf this was a hope which far exceeded his expectations. After congratulating a puzzled Barliman, and blessing his beer, Gandalf then slept the night at the inn and in the morning left for [[Weathertop]], a high point in the region, to observe the surrounding area.
[[File:Ted Nasmith - Fire on Weathertop.jpg|thumb|''Fire on Weathertop'' by [[Ted Nasmith]]]]
There he was assaulted at night by the Nazgûl, but drove them off after a great battle of light and flame.<ref name=B3>{{App|B3}}</ref> These phenomena were seen by Aragorn and the hobbits from afar, without knowing it was Gandalf.<ref>{{FR|I11}}</ref> Before leaving, he marked some stones with the [[cirth|certh]] G for them to find. The next day he escaped to the north from Weathertop, followed by four Riders.<ref name=council></ref>

He then went directly to Rivendell a couple of days sooner than [[Aragorn]].<ref name=B3/> But when they arrived, Gandalf and Elrond joined their powers to cause a flood in [[Bruinen]] to drown the Riders, allowing Frodo some time to reach Rivendell.<ref name=council/> Then they welcomed Glorfindel, Aragorn and the hobbits upon their arrival, Frodo sick with a [[Morgul-wound]] but still in possession of the Ring.

=====The Fellowship of the Ring=====
Elrond called a [[Council of Elrond|council]] after Frodo was healed to consider the momentous decision regarding the ring. By chance, representatives of most of the free peoples happened to be in Rivendell already for various reasons. Elrond and Gandalf advised that the Ring should be destroyed in the fires of [[Orodruin]], where it was made. Others dissented or objected, but eventually submitted to Gandalf's plan. Ultimately, Elrond appointed the Fellowship of the Ring as nine walkers, numerically set against Sauron's nine Nazgûl. The relatively small number reflected the realisation by Elrond and the other council members that the quest of Mount Doom would not rely upon strength of arms, but on stealth and good fortune. Gandalf was chosen to lead the company, which included [[Aragorn]], [[Boromir]], [[Legolas]] the Elf, [[Gimli]] the Dwarf, and the hobbits Frodo Baggins, [[Samwise Gamgee]], [[Peregrin Took]], and [[Meriadoc Brandybuck]].

Several obstacles stood in the company's way. The vast [[Misty Mountains]] had to be crossed, for Gandalf was determined not to lead the company near [[Isengard]]. Gandalf decided to take a southern route to the [[Redhorn Pass]] and there to cross the [[Misty Mountains]] near [[Caradhras]], thereby traversing the mountain range and avoiding Isengard. When this attempt failed due to a terrible storm he then decided to take the Fellowship through the ruins of Moria, where the remains of the great Dwarf city of [[Moria|Khazad-dûm]] was now a labyrinth of tunnels under the mountains. Others in the company were loathe enter the maze, as it was now the lair of orcs and something known only as "Durin's Bane".

At the [[Doors of Durin]] on the west side of the mountains, Gandalf, after some delay, spoke the password and led the company into the dark. Having been in Moria on an earlier perilous errand, he was somewhat familiar with the underground passages. Eventually the party came to the [[Chamber of Mazarbul]], where Gandalf read the [[Book of Mazarbul|Book of Records]], which revealed the fate of [[Balin]], the leader of an ill-fated attempt to re-colonise Moria. Soon after, the party was attacked by orcs, and forced to flee the chamber. By then Gandalf was well aware of their location, and he led the party quickly towards the eastern exit.
[[File:John Howe - Gandalf Falls with the Balrog.jpg|thumb|''Gandalf Falls with the Balrog'' by [[John Howe]]]]
Unfortunately [[Durin's Bane]] caught up to the group at the [[Bridge of Khazad-dûm]]. Gandalf and Legolas immediately realised what it was: a [[Balrogs|Balrog]] of [[Morgoth]], a servant of the first dark lord. In a spectacular display of bravery Gandalf faced the demon and broke the bridge both stood upon, leaving the beast to fall into a seemingly bottomless chasm. But the Balrog's whip lashed out, and grasped Gandalf by the knees, causing him to fall into the pit. While falling, Gandalf shouted "Fly, you fools" and vanished into the abyss.<ref name=bridge>{{FR|Bridge}}</ref>

Yet Gandalf did not die; he and the Balrog fought long in the bowels and deep places of Arda. After restless pursuit over the course of eight days, Gandalf and the beast finally came to the summit of the [[Endless Stair]] upon the peak of [[Celebdil]], where he [[Battle of the Peak|fought the demon]] for two days and nights. The Balrog had burst into flame anew when it exited the stairs; ice, wind, and smoke swirled about them as they duelled. Gandalf used his last measure of strength to slay the Balrog, throwing him down the mountainside in ruin. Gandalf's spirit then left his body, having sacrificed himself to save the Fellowship.

=====Gandalf the White=====
But Gandalf's spirit did not depart Middle-earth forever at this time. As the only one of the five Istari to stay true to his errand, Olórin/Gandalf was sent back to mortal lands by [[Ilúvatar|Eru]], and he became Gandalf once again. Yet, as he was now the sole emissary of the Valar to Middle-earth, he was granted the power to "reveal" more of his inner [[Maiar]] strength. This naked power that lay within him was seldom used during the remainder of his time in Middle-earth, as his mission was essentially the same: to support and succour those who opposed Sauron. Nevertheless, when Gandalf's wrath was kindled his "unveiled" strength was such that few of Sauron's servants could withstand him.
[[File:Ted Nasmith - Gandalf Returns.jpg|thumb|left|''Gandalf Returns'' by [[Ted Nasmith]]]]
As he lay on the mountaintop, the great eagle [[Gwaihir]] came up and bore him to [[Lothlórien]], where he was clothed and replenished, and given a new staff by [[Galadriel]]. Gandalf soon learned that Frodo and Sam had left the Fellowship and were attempting the quest of Mount Doom alone. As Frodo was beyond his assistance now, Gandalf promptly went south to [[Fangorn Forest]], where he met the [[Three Hunters]]: [[Aragorn]], [[Legolas]], and [[Gimli]], and gave them messages from Galadriel. Then he called forth [[Shadowfax]], and rode with them to [[Edoras]]. There he found that Saruman's spy [[Gríma|Gríma Wormtongue]] had deceived King [[Théoden]] into hopeless impotence. Gandalf quickly deposed Wormtongue and encouraged Théoden to ride west to war against [[Saruman]]. Gandalf by now was keenly aware that the great war to end the age was beginning; if Saruman conquered Rohan then Gondor would be alone with enemies on all sides.

At Gandalf's encouragement King Théoden went west to Helm's Deep where he was quickly besieged; Gandalf then searched for [[Erkenbrand]] and the forces of the [[Westfold]], which he later found and led to the Deep, thus breaking the siege. Meanwhile, the [[Ents]] (along with the hobbits Merry and Pippin) moved against Saruman and sent [[Huorns]] against the orcs, resulting in the utter ruin of the outer walls of [[Isengard]] and the complete annihilation of Saruman's orcs. After the battle, Gandalf went to [[Orthanc]] with Théoden, Aragorn, and a small group. There Saruman rejected Gandalf's offer of forgiveness with contempt. Gandalf then broke Saruman's staff and cast him from the Order and the Council. Gandalf imposed a strict watch on Isengard by the Ents and then advised King Théoden to ride to Gondor's defence as soon as possible. The wizard's mind had already turned to Gondor and the coming climactic battle in the east.

=====The Siege of Minas Tirith=====
[[File:Donato Giancola - The White Rider.jpeg|thumb|right|200px|''The White Rider'' by [[Donato Giancola]]]]
As a 'reward' for Pippin, who had foolishly gazed into a [[Palantíri|palantír]], Gandalf took the Hobbit with him to [[Minas Tirith]], the last bastion of the west. Soon after arriving, Gandalf confronted [[Denethor|Denethor II]], the [[Ruling Steward]], and learned that he was near despair over the death of his eldest son, [[Boromir]]. Pippin entered the Steward's service in payment of the debt that he and Merry owed, the death of Boromir. Ostensibly they were allies, but the Steward treated him with disrespect and suspicion. When [[Faramir]], the Steward's younger son, returned from [[Osgiliath]] and was attacked by Nazgûl, Gandalf upon Shadowfax drove them away by revealing the power within him; later Faramir told him that Frodo and Sam were still alive and headed towards Mordor.

The city was soon besieged by a vast force from Mordor, led by the [[Witch-king]]. An ill-advised counter attack resulted in Faramir receiving a wound from a poisoned dart; he lay near death inside the Tower. Still, Gandalf encouraged the men of Minas Tirith to have hope, and dispelled the fear of the Ringwraiths by his very presence. But Sauron's catapults hurled flaming bolts upon the city; soon the first circle of the city burned unchecked. Denethor now lost all heart as the city burned and his only remaining son hovered near death; he abandoned his leadership of the city. Gandalf then took it upon himself to direct the defence of the city. When the gigantic ram [[Grond (battering ram)|Grond]] destroyed the ancient entrance to the city, Gandalf placed himself alone at the ruined gateway. The Witch-king then appeared in the midst of the blasted gate upon a black horse and threatened Gandalf with death; but Gandalf did not move — seated upon Shadowfax he defied the mightiest of Sauron's minions. However, the stand-off ended inconclusively, as the morning arrived along with the host of the Rohirrim. Hearing the horns of the Riders of Rohan, the Witch-king departed.

But Gandalf did not pursue his foe, for Pippin brought him news that Denethor was about to commit suicide in the high tower, burning himself and his son Faramir on a pyre like the heathen Kings of old. Gandalf rushed to stop this madness and was able to save Faramir, but not Denethor, whose despair and grief had overcome his mind. Gandalf also learned how it was that Denethor's will had been broken: Denethor clutched a palantír in his hands as he burned. Clearly Denethor had been using the stone's special properties for some time — extending his vision far beyond those of mannish eyes, but also wrestling in thought with Sauron. And even though Sauron could not completely overwhelm Denethor's mind, his courage was daunted by knowledge of the vast might of Mordor. Thus the shadow entered into the capital of Gondor.

Nevertheless, and against all hope, the siege was broken. [[Éowyn]] of Rohan and the hobbit Merry defeated the Witch-king, whose last wail was heard by many as he was reduced to impotence. Soon after, Lord Aragorn arrived with a large valour of men from the southern fiefs upon a captured pirate fleet from Umbar. The forces of the men of the west then utterly defeated Sauron's attack against Minas Tirith, relieving the city and killing virtually all of the invaders. Gandalf's carefully laid plans and words of wisdom, along with acts of heroism not seen since the elder days, had defeated Sauron's first move.

=====The Last Battle=====
But the attack against Minas Tirith was only a part of Sauron's plan to devastate the west and make himself the ruler of Middle-earth. Other armies moved in the north against [[Lonely Mountain|Erebor]] and the Kingdom of Thranduil, as well as against Lothlórien and other points along the [[Anduin]]. Still commanding vast armies of orcs and men, the Dark Lord soon would move against Gondor again; the remnants of the Edain and their allies had little hope against his almost limitless resources.

In Minas Tirith, Gandalf was selected by Aragorn, Imrahil, and Éomer (the remaining lords of the west) to be their leader in the coming final battles. This would be the culmination of Gandalf's efforts in Middle-earth. Fully aware that the west would stand or fall on the outcome of Frodo's mission, he advised the lords to drive north to the Morannon, thereby drawing Sauron's eye away from Frodo's likely location. This plan surely would result in a catastrophic loss for the outnumbered army, but it gave Frodo a chance to achieve the quest of Mount Doom.

Led by Gandalf and Aragorn, the army of the West crossed the Anduin and marched north, pausing occasionally to announce their coming and to dispatch small numbers of men to lesser tasks. Upon arriving at the Black Gate, the forces halted and prepared for battle. As they ordered their companies, the foul [[Mouth of Sauron]] rode forth to parley with them; he revealed Frodo's [[Mithril#The Mithril Coat|''mithril''-coat]] and Arnor-blade and implied that their owner was captured and tortured. The emissary of Sauron then proposed that the forces of the west surrender; Gandalf however was undaunted, and, seizing his friend's belongings, rejected Sauron's offer. In shock, the Mouth of Sauron turned back towards the Black Gate, which slowly opened to reveal a vast army of orcs and trolls advancing on the lords of the west. Sauron's trap was sprung.

Yet Sauron himself became the victim of Gandalf's trap. Unbeknownst to all, Frodo and Sam had succeeded in scaling Mount Doom and even as the Battle of Morannon began Frodo stood at the Crack of Doom. But the power and lure of the ring finally overcame his will and he placed the ring upon his finger, claiming it as his own. Immediately the Nazgûl were summoned by their lord, as he in terror realised his blunder: his enemies intended to destroy his ring.

[[File:Ted Nasmith - The Shadow of Sauron.jpg|thumb|right|200px|''The Shadow of Sauron'' by [[Ted Nasmith]]]]
But Gandalf's foresight proved accurate again as the creature Gollum, who had been doggedly following the Ring-bearer, seized the ring from Frodo, and, while celebrating his reunion with "his precious," unwittingly fell into the fires of Orodruin. The ring was unmade as the fiery mountain erupted. The tower of [[Barad-dûr]] and the [[Towers of the Teeth]] began to collapse, their foundations crumbling, the Ring-wraiths burned out like shooting stars, and Sauron was reduced to a mere shadow of malice, never to torment the world again.

With Sauron gone, his forces scattered like frightened insects; the Men of the West now set upon them with fury. Gandalf announced the success of the [[Ring-bearer]] and the end of Sauron; the quest had been fulfilled. Seeing that victory was achieved, Gandalf then mounted on [[Gwaihir]] the Eagle for a third time, and set out to see if Frodo and Samwise had survived the tumults of [[Mount Doom]]. To his great relief, the two were found on the slopes of Orodruin, clinging to life amid the volcanic eruptions. The great quest was over.

====End of the Order====
In Minas Tirith, Gandalf and the remaining members of the Fellowship reunited. At the coronation of King [[Aragorn|Elessar]], Gandalf (at Aragorn's request) set the crown upon the King’s head, and declared "''Now come the days of the King, and may they be blessed while the thrones of the [[Valar]] endure!''". Thus Gandalf ushered in the new age of men.

After the coronation and wedding of Aragorn to [[Arwen]], Gandalf left with the rest of the remaining Fellowship on the journey home. For Gandalf, it was his last long journey in Middle-earth. His errand to Arda had been fulfilled; Sauron had been defeated. He said farewell to his friends one by one until at last only the four Hobbits remained at his side. At the borders of the Shire he, too, turned away. He left the Hobbits to settle with the Shire, for the shattered pieces of evil still remaining in the world were no longer his concern, and went to talk to [[Tom Bombadil]].

What Gandalf did during the next two years is unknown; it is possible that his "''long talk''" with Bombadil was just that. At any rate, on [[29 September]] {{TA|3021|n}}, he met [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]] at [[Mithlond]], ready to take the [[White Ship]] over the [[Belegaer|sea]] to [[Aman]]. He wore [[Narya]] openly on his finger, and Shadowfax was beside him (perhaps even to take ship with him). His mission was over, and his homecoming after more than 2000 years was nigh. He bade farewell to [[Samwise Gamgee|Samwise]], [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]], and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] (the latter two of whom he had forewarned of the passage), then boarded the ship beside Frodo, Bilbo, Elrond, and Galadriel. The ship passed west upon the sea, and then took the hidden straight path to [[Valinor]]: Gandalf became Olórin once more. There, presumably, he dwells still in the gardens of [[Irmo]]. Olórin, the wisest of the Maiar and the sole Istar to remain true to his mission, had successfully kindled the hearts of the free people in Middle-earth to overcome the evil of their time. In a large way, it was his victory.

==Personality==
[[File:Roger Garland - Gandalf.jpg|left|thumb|The Grey Pilgrim relaxing. Art by [[Roger Garland]]]]
Gandalf is often described in ''[[The Lord of the Rings]]'' as quick to anger, and equally quick to laugh.<ref name="Lorien">{{FR|Lorien}}</ref>
His deep wisdom clearly derived from the patience he learned in Valinor, just as his care for all creatures of good will must have come from his strong sense of pity for the weak. Both his patience and sense of pity were revealed again and again, extending even to the servants of his enemies.
[[File:J.R.R. Tolkien - G for Gandalf.png|thumb|Gandalf's signature, the [[cirth|rune]] "G".]]
Keen observers of Gandalf often detected a veiled power, usually revealed in his eyes, which appeared deep and wise. He was alternately affectionate and brusque; he often surprised others with his bluntness when time was of the essence. Gandalf consistently upbraided foolish behaviour, but also richly rewarded those who acted with good intentions.

Hobbits appealed to him more than to the other Wizards, and he went often to the Shire for respites from his errands. It may be that he was amused by their nature. It may also be because they were untouched by the great evils of the world, and were more in touch with nature than Men; perhaps their agrarian lifestyle appealed to Gandalf's innate spirit and reminded him of the gardens of Valinor.

==Appearance==
[[File:John Howe - Gandalf the Grey 02.jpg|thumb|right|200px|''Gandalf the Grey'' by [[John Howe]]]]

The first description of Gandalf is preserved in the initial pages of ''The Hobbit'', written in the early 1930s. Gandalf's fame is alluded to even before his physical description ("Tales and adventures sprouted up all over the place wherever he went, in the most extraordinary fashion"), while the protagonist's ("unsuspecting Bilbo") impression is that of:
{{Blockquote|...an old man with a staff. He had a tall pointed blue hat, a long grey cloak, a silver scarf over which a white beard hung down below his waist, and immense black boots.|''[[The Hobbit]]'', "[[An Unexpected Party]]"}}

Later, [[J.R.R. Tolkien|Tolkien]] wrote:
{{Blockquote|...a figure strongly built and with broad shoulder, though shorter than the average of men and now stooped with age, leaning on a thick rough-cut staff as he trudged along... Gandalf's hat was wide-brimmed [...] with a pointed conical crown, and it was ''blue''; he wore a long ''grey'' cloak, but this would not reach much below his knees. It was of an elven silver-grey hue, though tarnished by wear - as is evident from the general use of grey in [[The Lord of the Rings|the book]]... But his colours were always white, silver-grey, and blue - except for the boots he wore when walking in the wild...Gandalf even bent must have been at least 5 ft. 6... Which would make him a short man even in modern England, especially with the reduction of a bent back.<ref name="MB" />}}

Although some of the Wise know his true nature, his "wizard-like" appearance causes many to mistake him for a simple conjurer. After his return his "signature colour" changes from grey to white, for he has been sent back to replace the corrupt Saruman as the chief of the Wizards. In the book he claims that in some ways he now "was Saruman", or rather Saruman as he should have been.

[[Círdan]] the Shipwright seemed to have foreseen this, for he entrusted the care of [[Narya]], one of the [[Three Rings]] of the Elves to Gandalf rather than Saruman.

==Powers and abilities==
[[File:Roger Thomasson - Gandalf the Grey.jpg|thumb|''Gandalf the Grey'' by [[Roger Thomasson]]]]
Gandalf demonstrated extensive knowledge of the land and an assortment of magical abilities from trivial to essential. For example he would use his powers for entertainment, by blowing glowing smoke rings that moved around a room at his direction, and [[Bilbo Baggins]] remembered him for his fantastic fireworks displays. He created blinding flashes and other pyrotechnics to distract the [[Orcs|goblins]] of the [[Misty Mountains]], aiding the dwarves in their escape from [[Goblin-town]]. On the eastern slopes, he turned pine cones into flaming projectiles that threw hot sparks and started fires that would not easily go out. He was also able to come and go from the presence of [[Thorin and Company]] without being noticed.

He again displayed his proficiency with pyrotechnics at [[Bilbo's Farewell Party]]. When the Fellowship is attacked by [[Wargs]] in [[Eregion|Hollin]] Gandalf speaks words of power to inflame the trees on the hillock where the company had camped. He was also able to start fires under blizzard conditions, create light of varying intensity for the journey through [[Moria]], magically secure doors, and break the [[Bridge of Khazad-dûm]]. When angered or aroused for battle, he seemed to grow in height and assume a terrifying aspect. He fought the [[Durin's Bane|Balrog of Moria]] and killed his opponent, although he did not himself survive the battle.

Sent back to [[Middle-earth]] as Gandalf the White, he possessed greater charisma and a limited degree of clairvoyance, although he was unable to peer into the land of [[Mordor]] to see the progress of Frodo and [[Samwise Gamgee|Sam]]. His power and authority had increased so that he could break [[Saruman]]'s staff with a spoken command, showing his authority to throw the treacherous wizard out of the order.

Gandalf was the bearer of [[Narya]], the Ring of Fire, and described himself as the "servant of the [[Secret Fire]]" and "wielder of the [[flame of Anor]]".<ref name=bridge/> Many of Gandalf's displays of power were related to fire in some way. It is not known, though, whether or to what extent his possession of Narya affected his abilities.<ref>FAQ of the Rings: [http://oakroadsystems.com/genl/ringfaq.htm#Q3-Fireworks D6. ''Gandalf bore the Ring of Fire. Is that how he made his fireworks?'']</ref>

===Special equipment===
It is unknown whether Gandalf required his staff to exercise certain powers. At times it appeared to focus or extend his powers, such as its emanation of light. [[Gríma|Gríma Wormtongue]] tried to forbid Gandalf from bringing it into [[Edoras]] in a clear attempt to limit his powers.

When he arrived in Middle-earth, Gandalf received the Elven ring [[Narya]] from [[Círdan]]. Gandalf wore it from that time to the end of the Third Age but how he used its powers is not known.

In {{TA|2941}}, Gandalf acquired the Elven sword [[Glamdring]] from the treasure hoard of a band of trolls.<ref name="Mutton"/> He continued to wield this weapon throughout ''The Lord of the Rings'', in particular during his fight with the [[Durin's Bane|Balrog]] in Moria.

Throughout his time in Middle-earth Gandalf often was seen with a pipe.

==Etymology==
{{Pronounce|Gandalf.mp3|Ardamir}}
{{Pronounce|Quenya - Olórin.mp3|Gilgamesh}}
Within the legendarium, ''Gandalf'' translates an unknown name of the meaning "Elf-of-the-wand (or cane/staff)", or more literary "Wand-elf", in old northern Mannish. Most denizens of Middle-earth incorrectly assumed Gandalf was a [[Men|Man]], although he was really a Maia spirit (approximately equivalent to an angel). However, a less common misconception that occurred during the beginning of his career in Middle-earth was that for someone to be [[Immortality|immortal]] and use as much magic as he did, he must have been an Elf. Although it soon became apparent to all that he could not be an Elf, as he was old and Elves do not generally age, the nickname stuck with him. He later gave it as his name to others he met who did not know its original meaning.

==Other names==
{{Main|Gandalf/Names}}

==Other versions of the legendarium==
In early manuscripts of ''[[The Hobbit]]'', the name ''[[Bladorthin]]'' was used by Tolkien for the character who later would be named ''Gandalf''. The name ''Gandalf'' was instead used for the character known as [[Thorin]] in the published works.<ref>{{HH|Intro}}</ref>

==Inspiration==
[[File:Georg von Rosen - Oden som vandringsman, 1886 (Odin, the Wanderer).jpg|thumb|''Oden som vandringsman'' (''Odin the Wanderer'') by Georg von Rosen]]
[[File:Josef Madlener - Der Berggeist.jpg|left|thumb|''[[Der Berggeist]]'' by [[Josef Madlener]]]]

''Gandalfr''
appears in the list of dwarves in the ''[[Völuspá]]'' of the Elder Edda, the name means "Cane-elf". Tolkien took the name along with the other dwarves' names when he wrote ''The Hobbit'' in the 1930s. He came to regret the creation of this "rabble of eddaic-named dwarves [...] invented in an idle hour",<ref>{{TI|Runes}}, p. 452</ref> since it forced him to come up with an explanation of why Old Norse names should be used in [[Third Age]] Middle-earth. He solved the dilemma in 1942 by the explanation that [[Old Norse]] was a ''translation'' of the [[language of Dale]]. The figure of Gandalf has other influences from Germanic mythology, particularly Odin in his incarnation as "the Wanderer", an old man with one eye, a long white beard, a wide brimmed hat, and a staff: Tolkien states that he thinks of Gandalf as an ''"Odinic wanderer"'' in a letter of 1946.<ref>{{L|107}}</ref>

Tolkien had a postcard labelled ''[[Der Berggeist]]'' ("the mountain spirit"), and on the paper cover in which he kept it, he wrote "the origin of Gandalf" at some point. The postcard reproduces a painting of a bearded figure, sitting on a rock under a pine tree in a mountainous setting. He wears a wide-brimmed round hat and a long cloak and a white fawn is nuzzling his upturned hands.
[[Humphrey Carpenter]] in his 1977 biography said that Tolkien had bought the postcard during his 1911 holiday in Switzerland. However, Manfred Zimmerman discovered that the painting was by German artist Josef Madlener and dates to the late 1920s.<ref>[[Manfred Zimmerman]], "The Origin of Gandalf and Josef Madlener", in [[Mythlore|''Mythlore'']] [[Mythlore 34|34]] (Winter [[1983]])</ref> Carpenter concluded that Tolkien was probably mistaken about the origin of the postcard himself. Tolkien must have acquired the card at some time in the early 1930s, at a time when ''The Hobbit'' had already begun to take shape.

==Portrayals in adaptations==
{{Gallery
|title=Gandalf in adaptations
|height=150
|width=200
|lines=3
|File:The Hobbit (1966 film) - Gandalf.png|Gandalf in [[The Hobbit (1966 film)|''The Hobbit'' (1966 film)]]
|File:The Hobbit (1977 film) - Gandalf.jpg|Gandalf in [[The Hobbit (1977 film)|''The Hobbit'' (1977 film)]]
|File:The Lord of the Rings (1978 film) - Gandalf.jpg|Gandalf the Grey in [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]
|File:The Lord of the Rings (1978 film) - Gandalf the White.jpg|Gandalf the White in [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]
|File:War in Middle Earth - Gandalf and three hobbits.png|Gandalf in ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien's War in Middle Earth]]''
|File:LOTR-Gandalf 1990-1--1-.png|Gandalf in [[J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, Vol. I (1990 video game)|''J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, Vol. I'' (1990 video game)]]
|File:LOTR vol. 1 SNES Gandalf in the Shire.png|Gandalf in [[J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, Vol. I (SNES)|''J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, Vol. I'' (SNES)]]
|File:1121208-ror 010-1-.png|Gandalf in ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien's Riders of Rohan]]''
|File:The Lord of the Rings - The Fellowship of the Ring - Gandalf reading the Book of Mazarbul.jpg|Gandalf the Grey in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring]]''
|File:The Lord of the Rings - The Motion Picture Trilogy - Gandalf the White.jpg|Gandalf the White in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers]]''
|File:The Lord of the Rings - The Fellowship of the Ring (video game) - Gandalf.JPG|Gandalf in [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring'' (video game)]]
|File:Gandalf 2Towers.png|Gandalf in [[The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers'' (video game)]]
|File:The Lord of the Rings- The Two Towers GBA - Gandalf, Frodo and Legolas.png|Gandalf in [[The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (video game)#Game Boy Advance version|''The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers'' (Game Boy Advance)]]
|File:The Hobbit (2003) Gandalf.JPG|Gandalf in ''[[The Hobbit (2003 video game)|''The Hobbit'' (2003 video game)]]
|File:Gandalf EA RotK.png|Gandalf in [[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King'' (video game)]]
|File:The Lord of the Rings- The Return of the King GBA - Gandalf.png|Gandalf in [[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King'' (Game Boy Advance)]]
|File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Gandalf the Grey.png|Gandalf the Grey in ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]''
|File:The Lord of the Rings Online - Gandalf the White.jpg|Gandalf the White in ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]''
|File:The Lord of the Rings Online Shadows of Angmar - Gandalf.png|Gandalf the Grey in ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online: Shadows of Angmar]]''
|File:The Lord of the Rings- Conquest -Gandalf fighting Orcs.png|'''[[The Lord of the Rings: Conquest]]''
|File:Aragorn's Quest - Gandalf the White.jpg|Gandalf the White in ''[[The Lord of the Rings: Aragorn's Quest]]''
|File:Gandalf in LOTR- War in the North-1.png|''[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]]''
|File:Lego - Gandalf the Grey mini figure.png|Gandalf the Grey as a ''[[Lego]] mini figure''
|File:Guardians of Middle-earth - Gandalf.png|Gandalf the Grey in ''[[Guardians of Middle-earth]]''
|File:The Hobbit (film series) - Gandalf.jpg|Gandalf the Grey in [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'' (film series)]]
}}
===Films===
'''1966: [[The Hobbit (1966 film)|''The Hobbit'' (1966 film)]]:'''
:Gandalf's role is drastically reduced. He lives in a tower, where Thorin, the [[Mika Milovana|princess]] and the guard meet him to discuss the killing of [[Smaug|Slag]]. He introduces them to Bilbo, but does not go on the quest.<ref name="Deitch">{{webcite|articleurl=http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=UBnVL1Y2src|articlename=The Hobbit.mp4|dated=5 January 2012|website=YouTube|accessed=10 January 2012}}</ref>

'''1977: [[The Hobbit (1977 film)|''The Hobbit'' (1977 film)]]:'''
:The voice of Gandalf was provided by [[John Huston]].

'''1978: [[The Lord of the Rings (1978 film)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1978 film)]]:'''
:Gandalf was voiced by [[William Squire]]. [[John A. Neris]] played him in the live-action filming used for rotoscoping.<ref>Jerry Beck, ''The Animated Movie Guide'', page 154 (at [http://books.google.com/books?id=fTI1yeZd-tkC&pg=PA154&dq=%22John+A.+Neris%22&hl=nl#PPA154,M1 GoogleBooks])</ref>

'''1980: [[The Return of the King (1980 film)|''The Return of the King'' (1980 film)]]:'''
:[[John Huston]] reprised his role as Gandalf. In this adaptation, the tale is told by a minstrel of [[Gondor]], yet in the story, Gandalf serves as the narrator. Gandalf the White is portrayed without difference from Gandalf the Grey, in ''The Hobbit''.

'''1985: [[The Hobbit (1985 television film)|''The Fairytale Adventures of Mr. Baggins, the Hobbit'' (1985 film)]]:'''
:Ivan Krasko played Gandalf.

'''2001: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring]]'':'''
:[[Ian McKellen]] was cast as Gandalf. He was nominated for an Academy Award for his portrayal.

'''2002: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers]]'':'''
:Perhaps the most striking difference from all other adaptations is the difference between Gandalf the Grey and Gandalf the White. Where earlier no visible or audible difference was made, Gandalf the White is portrayed as much more virile, and with a shorter (and whiter) beard.

'''2003: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King]]'':'''
:Because [[Imrahil]] had been cut from the film, it was up to Gandalf to lead the troops after the madness and death of [[Denethor]].

'''2012-14: [[The Hobbit (film series)|''The Hobbit'' (film series)]]:'''
:[[Ian McKellen|Sir Ian McKellen]] reprised his role as Gandalf the Grey.<ref name="PJCasting">{{webcite|author=[[Peter Jackson]]|articleurl=http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150168211921558|articlename=Production begins in New Zealand on The Hobbit|dated=20-March-2011|website=[http://www.facebook.com/ Facebook]|accessed=23-Dec-2011}}</ref> A description of Gandalf in ''The Hobbit'' films was released by the studio:

:{{Blockquote|One of the most powerful Wizards in all Middle-earth, Gandalf the Grey joins the quest to reclaim the Dwarf Kingdom of Erebor and the great treasure that lies within its stone halls from a fire-breating dragon, Smaug the Terrible. Along the way, Gandalf finds evidence that an ancient evil may have found its way back into the world. In order to uncover the truth, Gandalf must leave his companions to fend for themselves – a journey that will take him into the darkest corners of Middle-earth where his worst suspicions are confirmed.|[[Warner Bros.]]<ref name="HobbitApp">{{webcite|author=[[Warner Bros.]]|articleurl=http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/hobbit-movies/id545808528|articlename=Hobbit Movies|dated=7-September-2012|website=[http://itunes.apple.com/ Apple iPhone/iPad App]|accessed=19-September-2012}}</ref>}}

===Television===
'''1993: [[Hobitit|''Hobitit'']]:'''
:Actor [[Vesa Vierikko]] played both Gandalf the Grey and Gandalf the White.He appeared in 6 of 8 episodes.

===Radio series===
'''1955: [[The Lord of the Rings (1955 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1955 radio series)]]:'''
:The voice of Gandalf was provided by [[Norman Shelley]].<ref>{{L|175}}</ref>

'''1968: [[The Hobbit (1968 radio series)|''The Hobbit'' (1968 radio series)]]:'''
:The voice of Gandalf was provided by [[Heron Carvic]].

'''1979: [[The Hobbit (1979 radio series)|''The Hobbit'' (1979 radio series)]]:'''
:The voice of Gandalf was provided [[Bernard Mayes]].

'''1979: [[The Lord of the Rings (1979 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1979 radio series)]]:'''
:[[Bernard Mayes]] reprised his role as Gandalf.

'''1980: [[Der Hobbit (1980 German radio series)|''Der Hobbit'' (1980 German radio series)]]:'''
:Gandalf is played by Bernhard Minetti.

'''1981: [[The Lord of the Rings (1981 radio series)|''The Lord of the Rings'' (1981 radio series)]]:'''
:[[Michael Hordern]] read the part of Gandalf. He had not read the book, and thought his agent made a mistake in telling him how many episodes he had to do. He did not know Gandalf's early death would prove only temporarily.<ref>[[Brian Sibley]], "[http://briansibleytheworks.blogspot.com/2008/01/this-page-is-still-under-construction_23.html The Ring Goes Ever On: The Making of BBC Radio's ''The Lord of the Rings'']", at ''[http://briansibleytheworks.blogspot.com/ Brian Sibley:The Works]''</ref>

'''1989: [[Hobit (1989 Slovak radio series)|''Hobit'' (1989 Slovak radio series)]]:'''
:The voice of Gandalf is provided by Karol Machata.

'''1992: [[Der Herr der Ringe (1992 German radio series)|''Der Herr der Ringe'' (1992 German radio series)]]:'''
:Gandalf is played by Manfed Steffen.

'''2001-2003: [[Pán prsteňov (2001-2003 Slovak radio series)|''Pán prsteňov'' (2001-2003 Slovak radio series)]]:'''
:The voice of Gandalf is provided by Martin Huba.

===Games===
'''1982: [[The Hobbit (1982 video game)|''The Hobbit'' (1982 video game)]]:'''
:Gandalf can be met on several moments of the game's story line.<ref>[http://www.worldofspectrum.org/showmag.cgi?mag=ZXComputing/Issue8304/Pages/ZXComputing830400076.jpg ''ZX Computing'', iss. 8304, p. 76] reproduced at [http://www.worldofspectrum.org/archive.html World of Spectrum - Archive] (retrieved at 14 August 2010)</ref>

'''1990: [[J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, Vol. I (1990 video game)|''J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, Vol. I'' (1990 video game)]]:'''
:Gandalf can be "recruited" by [[Frodo Baggins]] as a playable character.

'''1990: ''[[J.R.R. Tolkien's Riders of Rohan]]'':'''
:Gandalf is one of the main characters of the game and one of the several heroes of the [[Rohan]] faction.

'''1994: [[J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, Vol. I (SNES)|''J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, Vol. I'' (SNES)]]:'''
:Gandalf can be acquired as a playable character.

'''2002: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring'' (video game)]]:'''
:[[Tom Kane]] provided the voice of Gandalf. He is a playable character in several levels, including the fight with [[Durin's Bane]].

'''2002: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers'' (video game)]]:'''
:The voice of Gandalf is provided by [[Ian McKellen]]. Gandalf the Grey appears at the campsite of the [[Fellowship of the Ring|fellowship]] in ''The Gates of Moria'' and during the fight of [[Balin's Tomb]] in ''Balin's Tomb''. He latter reappears in the game as Gandalf the White at the start of the mission ''The Plains of Rohan'', where he leaves Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli to search Éomer and his army. He also appears in some cutscenes.

'''2002: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (video game)#Game Boy Advance version|''The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers'' (Game Boy Advance)]]:'''
:In the [[wikipedia:Game Boy Advance|Game Boy Advance version]] of [[The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (video game)|The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers]] Gandalf is a playable character. Gandalf's story starts with a conservation between Gandalf and [[Théoden]], after which the story goes back to the [[Caradhras]], where the Fellowship tries to travel over the [[Misty Mountains]]. When that road fails, the Fellowship goes back and travels through [[Moria]]. In Moria Gandalf and the other member of the Fellowship are separated. After finding [[Frodo Baggins|Frodo]], [[Aragorn]] and [[Gimli]] the fellowship is attacked by a [[Cave-trolls|Cave-troll]] and [[Orcs#Orcs and Goblins|Goblins]]. After Gandalf defeats the Cave-troll the Fellowship has to flee for the [[Balrogs|Balrog]]. When they reach the [[Bridge of Khazad-dûm]] a cutscene is shown, in which Gandalf destroys the bridge and falls with the Balrog in the depths. After the fall Gandalf has to follow the footsteps of the Balrog through the depths of Moria and the [[Endless Stair]] until he reaches [[Durin's Tower]], where he has to defeat the Balrog.

:After being revived he returns as Gandalf the White in Fangorn, where he defeats several [[Trolls]] and [[Crebain]]. After defeating a stronger Forrest troll, named Fangorn troll, Gandalf meets Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli. After a cutscene, the game moves to [[Edoras]]. Gandalf heals the corrupted Théoden in Edoras, and then travels through [[Rohan]] in search of [[Éomer]]. Gandalf convinces Éomer to lead his army to [[Helm's Deep]].

:The game ends with the [[Battle of the Hornburg|Battle of Helm's Deep]], in which Gandalf and Éomer fight alongside Aragorn, Legolas, Gimli and [[Éowyn]] while protecting the wall, the [[Hornburg]] and the [[Glittering Caves]]. In the final level Gandalf has to destroy the siege weapons that bombard the Hornburg. The game ends with a conservation between Gandalf, Aragorn, Gimli and Théoden.

'''2003: [[The Hobbit (2003 video game)|''The Hobbit'' (2003 video game)]]:'''
:[[Jim Ward]] provided the voice of Gandalf. He is shown with actual [[magic]]: he can shoot blue bolts of lightning from his staff.

'''2003: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King'' (video game)]]:'''
:Gandalf is the narrator, and a playable character. The game is built around him; the cut scene narration shows how he planned for the [[War of the Ring]]. He has several missions, collectively called the "Path of the Wizard". The first is the [[Battle of the Hornburg|the Battle of Helm's Deep]], which serves as a training mission. He has to fight [[Uruk-Hai]] in the forest of [[Huorns]] and [[Ents]] in "The Road to Isengard". After that, the missions move to [[Minas Tirith]]: the first mission, "Top of the Wall", has Gandalf warding off ladders and siege towers. In the second, "Courtyard", he has to protect civilians from the invading Orcs. His last playing mission is the [[Battle of the Morannon|Battle of the Black Gate]].

'''2003: [[The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (video game)|''The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King'' (Game Boy Advance)]]:'''
:Just like on the console version of the game, Gandalf is a playable character. He has many missions, collectively called the "The Journey of the Wizard". He starts in a flooded [[Isengard]], where he has to kill several [[Uruk-hai]] and [[Crebain]] before he confronts [[Saruman]]. After the defeat of Saruman he travels to [[Minas Tirith]] through Rohan and the Misty Mountains. At the [[Pelennor Fields]] Gandalf has to protect the [[Beacons of Gondor|beacons]], so Rohan can be warned. During the [[Battle of the Pelennor Fields|Battle of Minas Tirith]] he has to protect the gate, before making his way to the [[House of the Stewards|Steward's Tomb]]. Here Gandalf has to kill Denethor, before he burns [[Faramir]]. After the battle Gandalf travels through [[Ithilien]] to the [[Black Gate]], where he confronts a Nazgûl.

'''2004: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Third Age]]'':'''
:Gandalf, voiced by [[Ian McKellen]], is a character in [[Electronic Arts|EA's]] "alternative [[Fellowship of the Ring|fellowship]]" game. In his battle against Durin's Bane, he is aided by the main characters.

'''2004: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War of the Ring]]'':'''
:Gandalf is voiced by [[Steven M. Kramer]], renowned for playing older mentor types.

'''2004: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth]]'':'''
:In non-storyline skirmishes Gandalf is the hero of the Gondor faction, who possesses several magical abilities. At first, he appears as Gandalf "the Grey", and becomes "Gandalf the White" after reaching level 5 (out of 10). Gandalf also narrates the prologue scene, repeating almost word for word the lines said by Galadriel in the ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring]]''.

:His involvement in the storyline is notable for major differences from the original tale. First of all, Gandalf survives his encounter with Balrog, defeating him at the Bridge of Khazad-dum and continues the journey with the Fellowship - by the time of arrival in Lothlorien he already appears as Gandalf the White. He is present during the ambush at [[Amon Hen]], where thanks to his involvement Boromir is saved from certain death. Merry and Pippin are captured regardless and Aragorn, Legolas, Gimli and Boromir give chase, while Gandalf departs them to see to dealings in Rohan, including freeing of King Théoden from the spell. Following the Battle of Helm's Deep he travels to Minas Tirith along with both Pippin and Boromir, where they participate in the Siege of the city.

'''2006: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth II]]'':'''
:Gandalf is a hero for the "Men of the West" faction. Similar to the first game, he appears as Gandalf the Grey initially and Gandalf the White after level 5. He plays no part in the main storyline, but appears in the alternate "evil" campaign: after Sauron reclaims the Ring and lays waste to southern lands, Gandalf and few other survivors meet their end during a last stand in Rivendell.

'''2007: ''[[The Lord of the Rings Online]]'':'''
:Gandalf is a non-playable character voiced by [[Harry Chase]], who narrates cutscenes and instances throughout the original game, before the first expansion. He first meets the Dwarven characters in Ered Luin in {{TA|2941}}, shortly before the Quest for Erebor. Later, characters of all races meet him in Bree in October of {{TA|3018}}, but he is too busy with concerns for Frodo and the Ring and merely sends them away to find Radagast. Finally, the players have a chance to have a proper conversation with him in Rivendell, following the Council of Elrond. During that time, Gandalf is involved in several quests, including helping the player wreck havoc among the Goblins stirring at the [[High Pass]]. After the Fellowship leaves Rivendell, players are able to retrace many of their steps, including the marks left by Gandalf such as the Burnt Top in [[Eregion]] and the remains of his fire at the pass of [[Caradhras]]. Later, Lady [[Galadriel]] bids the player to find the sings of Gandalf following his fall from the Bridge of Khazad-dum - said signs include his burnt hat at the Foundations of Stone in Moria and the sings of his struggle with the Balrog at the [[Endless Stair]] - those allow Galadriel to discern that Mithrandir is not truly dead. Players later meet him as Gandalf the White in [[Caras Galadhon]] shortly after the Fellowship has departed Lothlorien. During that time, he engages into a spiritual battle with a Gaunt-Lord Gortheron the Doom-Caller; his display of his new abilities encourages the band of Free People players and allows them to defeat the servant of Sauron.

:Gandalf is also present in several historic "session plays", during which players witness the important events their characters were not present for. Such events include Gandalf infiltrating [[Dol Guldur]] with the help of an Elf named Raddir, first meeting between Gandalf and Aragorn on the outskirts of Lothlorien and Gandalf's imprisonment atop Orthanc by Saruman.

'''2009: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: Conquest]]'':'''
:[[Martin Jarvis]] provides the voice of Gandalf. He is a playable mage hero and has three special powers: "Healing Wisdom", "You Shall not Pass!" and "Cleansing Fire". In the good campaign he appears at the end of the Isengard mission, where he has to kill Saruman in [[Orthanc]]. In Moria he can be played to destroy the [[Balrog]] and in Minas Tirith he has to defend the gates of the second ring. He is also one of the four playable heroes in the last mission, [[The Battle of the Morannon|the battle of the Black Gate]]. He appears aswell in the end of the last mission, the Shire, of the evil campaign, in which he is defeated by [[Sauron]].
:He is also playable in the Shire, Isengard, Minas Tirith and Moria with the ''Conquest'' Mode, in Isengard and Minas Tirith in the ''Team Deathmatch'' mode, the citadel of Minas Tirith in ''Capture the Ring'' mode, and at the Black Gate, Minas Morgul, Mout Doom and the Shire during ''Hero Team Deatmatch'' mode.

'''2011: ''[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]]'':'''
:Gandalf is voiced by [[Tom Kane]], who also narrates the introduction of the game. He tells that heroes like "[[Aragorn|Aragorn the King]]", "[[Frodo Baggins|Frodo the Ringbearer]]" and "'''Gandalf the Wizard'''" are rightly honored, but that without a few heroes - [[Eradan (video game character)|Eradan]], [[Andriel]] and [[Farin (video game character)|Farin]] - the north of [[Middle-earth]] would have been lost.<ref>[[The Lord of the Rings: War in the North]], ''Prologue''</ref>
:He also appears in [[Rivendell]] later in the game. Players can interact with him and learn of various important events, yet the conversations do not unlock any side-quests and do not affect the main story in any way.

'''2012: ''[[Guardians of Middle-earth]]'':'''
:Gandalf is a mage-type "guardian" with four abilities: ''Narya's Power'', ''Flame of Anor'', ''Fireworks'' and ''Gandalf's Might''.<ref>{{webcite|author=|articleurl=http://www.guardiansofmiddleearth.co.uk/guardians/gandalf|articlename=''Guardians of Middle-earth'': Gandalf|dated=|website=[http://www.guardiansofmiddleearth.com/ ''Guardians of Middle-earth'' official website]|accessed=16 July 2012}}</ref>

{{References}}

{{seq-start}}
{{seq-head
| race=maiar
| house=[[Maiar]]
}}
{{seq
| prev=[[Círdan]]
| list=Bearer of [[Narya]]
| dates=c. {{TA|1000}} - after {{TA|3021|n}}
| nvac=None
| next=Presumably, still Gandalf
}}
{{seq
| pvac=None
| prev=Position created
| list=Leader of the [[Fellowship of the Ring]]
| dates=[[25 December]] {{TA|3018}} - [[15 January]] {{TA|3019|n}}
| next=[[Aragorn|Aragorn II]]
}}
{{seq-end}}{{ainur}}{{Thorin and Company}}{{companyroute}}{{councilofelrond}}{{fellowship}}{{FellowshipRoute}}{{ringbearers}}{{hobbitfilms}}
[[Category:Characters in The Hobbit]]
[[Category:Characters in The Lord of the Rings]]
[[Category:Characters in The Silmarillion]]
[[Category:Maiar]]
[[Category:Norse names]]
[[Category:Third Age characters]]
[[Category:Wizards]]

[[de:Gandalf]]
[[fr:encyclo:personnages:ainur:maiar:istari:gandalf]]
[[fi:Gandalf]]

Teleri

2021-09-26T06:20:49Z

Protospace: /* After the Great Journey */ + silverwork of the Teleri

{{disambig-two|the Third Clan in general|Teleri of Aman|[[Falmari]]}}
{{people infobox
| name=Teleri
| image=[[File:Marya Filatova - One of the Teleri.jpg|250px]]
| caption="[[:File:Marya Filatova - One of the Teleri.jpg|One of the Teleri]]" by [[Marya Filatova]]
| pronun={{respell|tel|air-ee}}
| othernames=Nelya, Lindar, Sea-elves
| origin=
| location=[[Alqualondë]], [[Isle of Balar]], [[Ossiriand]], [[Doriath]], [[Tol Eressëa]], [[Edhellond]], [[Mithlond]], [[Lothlórien]], [[Mirkwood]]
| affiliation=
| rivalry=
| language=[[Common Telerin]], [[Telerin]], [[Sindarin]], [[Nandorin]]
| members=[[Elwë]], [[Olwë]], [[Celeborn]], [[Círdan]], [[Lenwë]]
| lifespan=Immortal
| distinctions=Adoration for the sea/forest
| height=Tall
| hair=Dark, silver
| skin=White
| clothing=
| weapons=
}}
{{quote|The greatest host came last, and they are named the Teleri, for they tarried on the road, and were not wholly of a mind to pass from the dusk to the light of [[Valinor]]. In water they had great delight, and those that came at last to the western shores were enamoured of the sea. The Sea-elves therefore they became in the land of [[Aman]], the Falmari, for they made music beside the breaking waves.|''[[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', "[[Of the Coming of the Elves and the Captivity of Melkor]]"}}
The '''Teleri''' were the third of the [[Elves|Elf]] clans who took the [[Great Journey]]. To them belonged the [[Valinor]]ean Teleri (known as the [[Falmari]]), and the [[Sindar]], [[Green-elves|Laiquendi]], and [[Nandor]] of [[Middle-earth]].

At first they were known as '''[[Nelyar]]''' ("The Third"), and were the largest of the three houses of the Firstborn. According to legend, they were descended from [[Enel]], the third Elf to [[Awakening of the Elves|awake]] in [[Cuiviénen]], his spouse [[Enelyë]] and their seventy-two companions; half of the [[Avari]] originally belonged to this clan.<ref group=note>Specifically 28 of the 56 [[Tatyar]] and 28 of the 74 Nelyar became Avari. These values are proportions of 144, not headcounts.</ref><ref>{{WJ|C}}, pp. 380-83</ref>

In ancient times they named themselves '''[[Teleri#Names|Lindar]]''', or "Singers", because they were known for their fair voice.

==History==
According to legend, the clan was founded by [[Enel]], the third Elf to awake at [[Cuiviénen]]. With him were his spouse [[Enelyë]] and their 72 companions, and this clan became known as the '''Nelyar'''.

=== During the Great Journey ===

When the [[Valar]] decided to bring the [[Quendi]] to [[Aman]], they chose three ambassadors. [[Ingwë]], [[Finwë]] and [[Elwë]] travelled there and tried to convince their people to make the journey. Out of the original 74 Nelyar who awoke at Cuiviénen, 28 refused and became part of the [[Avari]], "The Unwilling".

The Teleri clan was so numerous that it was led both by Elwë and his brother [[Olwë]]. They were the last clan to depart, and the only ones who were unwilling to leave the wild lands of [[Middle-earth]] and were usually the hindmost of the [[Great Journey]]. In their earliest days they had begun the crafting of rafts and paddle-driven boats, and their ships became larger and stronger upon their need to traverse the [[Sea of Rhûn]] on their westward journey.<ref>{{PM|Last}} p. 391-392</ref> After travelling for many years, the Teleri stopped near river [[Anduin]] being frightened by the [[Misty Mountains|Hithaeglir]] ([[Misty Mountains]]). Then a group led by [[Lenwë]] departed from the journey and headed south. They were called the [[Nandor]] ("Those who turn back"). Eventually, the other Teleri passed the Misty Mountains and reached Eastern [[Beleriand]] near the river [[Gelion]].

That was the time when Elwë fell in love with [[Melian]] the [[Maiar|Maia]] and became separated from the Teleri, standing in the forest of [[Nan Elmoth]] for a long time only staring at her. Olwë became their leader, but some Teleri, especially Elwë's friends and close relatives were searching for him for a long time and refused to continue their journey without him. Those in [[Sindarin]] were known as the [[Eglath]] as they forsook the Great Journey.

Being the hindmost, the Teleri were still near [[Gelion]] and failed to hear [[Ulmo]]'s call when the Vanyar and the Noldor travelled into the West. When they learned that the others had already departed, they headed to the shores of Beleriand near the mouth of the river [[Sirion]] waiting for [[Ulmo]]. The Maia [[Ossë]] kept them company while they waited, and became their friend. When they first beheld the sea, the Teleri became enamoured with it, and ever after desired to live close to the shore, being named 'Sea-elves' in Aman. <ref>{{S|3}}</ref>

Later, when Ulmo arrived again with the island ferry, most of the Teleri agreed to travel. Again, there were some who wanted to stay with Ossë, and they became known as [[Falathrim]] in Sindarin, with [[Círdan|Nowë]] as their leader.

Out of the 46 original Telerin Eldar who began the Great Journey, only 20 among them arrived in Aman with their offspring, whereas the other 26 firstborn remained in Middle-earth as Sindar or Nandor.<ref>{{WJ|Quendi}} p. 381</ref>

=== After the Great Journey ===
The island was stabilized by Ulmo near the [[Bay of Eldamar]], and it was named [[Tol Eressëa]], ''The Lonely Island''. The Teleri lived there for many years until they felt that they should see the other [[Eldar]] who lived in Aman proper. With the help of Ossë they built ships and travelled to the coasts of Aman, where they dwelt. There Olwë built [[Alqualondë]], the greatest city of Teleri, and its people were united with the people of [[Tirion]] and [[Finwë]].

In Beleriand, Elwë and Melian recovered from their enchantment. He united the Eglath who stayed back, and the Falathrim who accepted him as King of Beleriand. The folk of both Elwë and Nowë became collectively known as the [[Sindar]]. Later they were joined by the [[Laiquendi|Laegil]], the Nandor who resumed their journey to the west under [[Denethor (Nando)|Denethor]] and came to [[Ossiriand]].

Later, when [[Morgoth|Melkor]] stole the [[Silmarils]], the [[Noldor]] led by [[Fëanor]] demanded that the Teleri let them use their ships. When the Teleri refused, they took the ships by force, committing the [[First Kinslaying]]. For this reason few or none of the Teleri joined the host of the [[Valar]] which at the end of the [[First Age]] set out to capture [[Morgoth]] for good. It is recounted that the Teleri eventually forgave the Noldor for the Kinslayings, and the two kindreds were at peace again.

The Teleri valued silver above gold, and the Noldor admired the Teleri's silverwork.<ref>{{NM|P3xvi}}, p. 350</ref>

==Sundering of Teleri==
*'''[[Falmari]]'''. Led by [[Olwë]], they (along with [[Elwë]]) were the only [[Calaquendi]] of the Teleri clan. They lived in Tol Eressëa and along the east shores of Aman.

*'''[[Nandor]]''' Teleri who abandoned the Great Journey near river Anduin, led by [[Lenwë]].
**'''[[Laiquendi]]''' The Elves of [[Ossiriand]], who were themselves Nandor led by [[Denethor (Nando)|Denethor]].
**'''[[Silvan]]''' The Wood Elves, primarily in the [[Woodland Realm]] of [[Mirkwood]] and [[Lothlórien]].

*'''[[Sindar]]''' All Teleri who remained in Beleriand. The Sindar of [[Beleriand]] called themselves simply ''[[Sindar|Edhil]]'', which means ''Elves'', and is related to the Quenya word ''Eldar'' of the same meaning. Elwë was their King. These were further divided into:
**'''[[Iathrim]]'''<ref name="Q&E-B-S-3">{{WJ|B}}, 3</ref>, those who lived in [[Doriath]], the realm directly ruled by King [[Thingol]], that is Elwë.
**'''[[Falathrim]]''', those who lived in the [[Falas]] ruled by [[Círdan]].
**'''[[Elves of Mithrim|Mithrim]]'''<ref name="Q&E-B-S-3"/>, or Sindar of the North, those who lived north of Beleriand: in [[Hithlum]], especially in the area called after them [[Mithrim]], in [[Dorthonion]] or in [[Nevrast]]. They suffered most from Morgoth's attacks before the first rising of the Sun, and their remnants were largely absorbed by the Noldor who afterwards occupied those lands.

==Language==
The Teleri spoke the [[Common Telerin]] language during the Journey, from which [[Sindarin]] (with its dialects of [[Doriathrin]], [[Falathrin]] and [[North Sindarin]]) and [[Nandorin]] were derived, as well as the [[Telerin]] of Aman, often considered a dialect of [[Quenya]] (if only by virtue that it preserved more of the archaic Common Eldarin features than any other language and remained mutually intelligible with Quenya).

==Etymology==
''Teleri'' is the plural of ''Teler'' which means "last", root [[TEL]].{{fact}}

In ''[[The Silmarillion]]'' the word ''Teleri'' refers both to the Third Clan in general, and that branch that made it to Aman, taken from the Vanyar and Noldor point of view; particularly the Teleri of Aman were called [[Falmari]].

==Other names==
Equivalent names of the Teleri were '''''[[Nelyar]]''''' and '''''Lindar'''''. ''Lindar'' ([[Quenya]] "singers", pron. {{IPA|[ˈlindar]}}) was the name by which the [[Teleri]] called themselves.

Another name was [[Sindarin]] '''''Glinnil''''' (sing ''Glinnel''), a name which appears to have been used only by the loremasters among the Eldar.<ref>{{WJ|Quendi}}, pp. 378, 385</ref>

'''Sea-elves''' was yet another name of the Teleri, specifically those of that kin who came to [[Aman]] and dwelt at [[Alqualondë]] (the [[Falmari]]), for their love of the sea and reverence of [[Ulmo]]. The name "Sea-elves" was rendered ''Veaneldar'' in Quenya,<ref>{{LR|A1}}, p. 403</ref> consisting of ''vea(n)'' ("sea") + ''[[eldar]]'' ("elves").<ref>{{VT|36a}}, p. 20</ref>

The Teleri were also known by many other names: the Foam-riders, the Singers of the Shore, the Free, the Swift, the Arrow-elves (for their love of bow and arrow), the Elves of the Sea, the Ship-wrights, the Swanherds, the Gatherers of Pearl, the Blue Elves, and the people of Olwë.<ref>{{MR|P3I3}}, p. 164</ref>

==Other versions of the legendarium==
In the early versions of Tolkien's mythology (see: ''[[The History of Middle-earth]]''), they were known as '''''Solosimpi''''' ("Pipers of the Shores"), while the name ''Teleri'' was given to the clan of Elves known in the published version of ''[[The Silmarillion]]'' as [[Vanyar]].

{{elves}}
{{references|notes}}
[[Category:Elven peoples]]
[[Category:Teleri| ]]
[[Category:Quenya demonyms]]
[[de:Teleri]]
[[fr:encyclo:peuples:elfes:teleri:teleri]]
[[fi:Teleri (kansa)]]

Dorthonion

2021-09-25T22:20:57Z

Protospace: Undo revision 335567 by Protospace (talk) self-reverting a brain fart in which I confused Dorthonion for Dor-Lomin

{{location infobox
| name=Dorthonion
| image=[[File:Peter Xavier Price - Beren the Solitary Outlaw.jpg|250px]]
| caption="Beren the Solitary Outlaw" by [[Peter Xavier Price]]
| pronun=
| othernames=Taur-na-Foen
| location=Northern [[Beleriand]], bounded by [[Ered Gorgoroth]] and [[Echoriath]]
| type=Region
| description=Hilly region with pine forests
| regions=[[Ladros]]
| towns=
| inhabitants=[[Elves]], [[Men]], [[Orcs]]
| created=
| destroyed=
| events=[[Dagor Bragollach]], [[Massacre at Tarn Aeluin]]
}}
'''Dorthonion''' was a forested highland region in the north of [[Beleriand]] which spanned sixty leagues from west to east.<ref> {{LR|Quenta}}, p. 272</ref> The hilly north-eastern section was called '''[[Ladros]]'''. Dorthonion was walled-in by the [[Echoriad|Echoriath]] ("Encircling Mountains") in the west and the [[Ered Gorgoroth]] ("Mountains of Terror") in the south.<ref name="Map">{{S|Map}}</ref>

From the plains of [[Ard-galen]] to the north, Dorthonion rose gradually until it became a bleak land of tarns and bare tors near the precipices of the Ered Gorgoroth. In the north and the west the land was covered with great forests of pines.<ref name="Beleriand">{{S|Beleriand}}</ref> The rivers [[Rivil]] and [[Mindeb]] had their sources in these uplands, as did the lake [[Aeluin]].<ref name="Map"/> In the centre of the land was a tall peak called [[Foen]].<ref>{{WJ|Beleriand}}, pp. 183, 187</ref>

==History==
The northern highlands, such as Dorthonion, were raised during the battles of the [[Ainur]] during the [[Battle of the Powers]].<Ref>{{S|3}}</ref>

In year {{FA|6|n}} of the [[First Age]]<ref>{{GA|64}}</ref> King [[Thingol]] gave permission to the [[Noldor]] to settle the northern lands of Beleriand.<ref>{{S|Return}}</ref> North Dorthonion was ruled by the Elf-lords [[Angrod]] and [[Aegnor]] and Ladros was ruled by [[Finrod]].<ref name="Beleriand"/>

Later Finrod and his people removed to [[Nargothrond]] in the south, whilst Angrod and Aegnor ruled over those of their folk who still dwelt in Dorthonion, as vassals of their brother <ref>{{S|Beleriand}}</ref>. Ladros was then granted by [[High King of the Noldor]] [[Fingolfin]] to the House of Bëor as a fiefdom.<ref>{{S|West}}</ref>

In {{FA|455}} Dorthonion was overrun by the armies of [[Morgoth]] in the [[Dagor Bragollach]] ("Battle of Sudden Flame") and thereafter was called '''[[Taur-nu-Fuin (Dorthonion)|Taur-nu-Fuin]]''' ("Forest under Nightshade").<ref>{{S|Fingolfin}}</ref> [[Barahir]] refused to forsake Dorthonion and remained with twelve companions near [[Tarn Aeluin]]. Through the treachery of [[Gorlim]] nearly all of this band were killed, save for the son of [[Barahir]], [[Beren]]. Beren followed the [[Orcs]] who had killed his father to [[Rivil's Well]]. He then killed the Orc captain and recovered the [[Ring of Barahir]]. Eventually he was pursued so closely that Beren fled from Dorthonion over the [[Ered Gorgoroth]].<ref>{{S|Beren}}</ref>

Many, many years later, on [[29 February]], {{TA|3019}},<ref>{{App|Great}}</ref> [[Treebeard]] chanted to [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] as he carried them through [[Fangorn Forest]] and he mentioned "''To the pine-trees upon the highland of Dorthonion I climbed in the Winter.''"<ref>{{TT|III4}}</ref>

==Etymology==
{{Pronounce|Dorthonion.mp3|Ardamir}}
''Dorthonion'' means "Land of the Pine Trees" in [[Sindarin]], from ''[[dôr]]'' ("land, dwelling-place") + ''[[thôn]]'' ("pine tree").<ref>{{S|Appendix}}</ref>

In a philological fragment of uncertain date it is stated that Dorthonion was also called '''''Taur-no-Foen''''', the "Forest of the Foen".<ref>{{WJ|Beleriand}}, p. 187</ref>

{{references}}
[[Category:Beleriand]]
[[Category:Hills]]
[[Category:Regions]]
[[Category:Sindarin locations]]
[[de:Dorthonion]]
[[fi:Dorthonion]]
[[fr:encyclo:geographie:regions:beleriand:dorthonion]]

Mithrim

2021-09-25T22:18:10Z

Protospace:

{{disambig-more|Mithrim|[[Mithrim (disambiguation)]]}}
{{location infobox
| name=Mithrim
| image=
| caption=
| pronun=
| othernames=
| location=South-east corner of [[Hithlum]]
| type=Region
| description=Cool yet fair land
| regions=
| towns=
| inhabitants=
| created=
| destroyed=
| events=[[Dagor-nuin-Giliath]]Birth of [[Tuor]]
}}
'''Mithrim''' was a region of in the south-east part of [[Hithlum]]. It was the area around [[Lake Mithrim]], surrounded by the [[Ered Wethrin]], and the '''[[Mountains of Mithrim]]''', which separated Mithrim from [[Dor-lómin]] to the west.<ref>{{S|Map}}</ref> Mithrim's climate was the same as Hithlum's; the air was cool and the winter was cold but it was a fair land.<ref name="Beleriand">{{S|Beleriand}}</ref> Swans were frequently seen in the pools of the land.<ref>{{UT|Tuor}}</ref>

Mithrim was first inhabited by the [[Elves of Mithrim|Grey-elves of Mithrim]],<ref name="Return">{{S|Return}}</ref> and then also by [[Noldor]] of [[Fingolfin]] and [[Fingon]].<ref name="Gondolin">{{S|Gondolin}}</ref>

==History==
Some time before the rising of the [[Moon]], [[Sindar|Sindarin Elves]] from Beleriand came over [[Ered Wethrin]] and settled in Mithrim.<ref name="Return"/>

When the [[Noldor]] returned to Middle-earth the host of [[Fëanor]] camped upon the northern shore of [[Lake Mithrim]]. [[Morgoth]] sent a host of [[Orcs]] through the [[Ered Wethrin]] to attack the newcomers and thus upper Mithrim was the scene of the [[Dagor-nuin-Giliath]]. The Noldor met the [[Elves of Mithrim]] and learned from them of King [[Thingol]], and tidings of what had transpired during their stay in [[Valinor]].<ref name="Return"/>

At the rising of the [[Sun]] the host of [[Fingolfin]] marched into Mithrim. After approaching [[Angband]] Fingolfin's host returned to Mithrim and camped upon the northern shore of Lake Mithrim. However, due to the rift between Fingolfin's people and the followers of Fëanor, Fingolfin relocated to the southern shores of the lake.<ref name="Return"/>

Later in the [[First Age]] Mithrim was ruled by Fingolfin, as it formed the most densely populated part of Hithlum.<ref name=Beleriand/> However, after the [[Nirnaeth Arnoediad]] Morgoth overran Mithrim and all of Hithlum and afterwards turned the land over to the [[Swarthy Men]].<ref>{{S|Turin}}</ref>

In the winter of the year of the Nirnaeth [[Rían]] gave birth to [[Tuor]] in the wilds of Mithrim, where some Grey-elves yet remained. [[Annael]] of the Elves who dwelt there in the caves of [[Androth]] fostered Tuor after Rían departed Hithlum.<ref name=Gondolin/>

All of [[Beleriand]] and the lands to its north were deluged in the [[War of Wrath]] at the end of that Age.

==Etymology==
''Mithrim'' is composed of the roots ''[[mith]]'' ("grey, light grey") and the mass plural ''[[rim]]'' ("great number, host").<ref>{{S|Appendix}}, entries ''mith'', ''rim''</ref> The name refers to the [[Sindar]] who first dwelt there.<ref>{{S|Index}}</ref>

{{references}}
[[Category:Beleriand]]
[[Category:Regions]]
[[Category:Sindarin locations]]

[[de:Mithrim]]
[[fi:Mithrim]]
[[fr:encyclo/geographie/regions/beleriand/mithrim]]

Dorthonion

2021-09-25T22:16:12Z

Protospace: correction: Hithlum (including Dorthonion) lay north of Beleriand proper

{{location infobox
| name=Dorthonion
| image=[[File:Peter Xavier Price - Beren the Solitary Outlaw.jpg|250px]]
| caption="Beren the Solitary Outlaw" by [[Peter Xavier Price]]
| pronun=
| othernames=Taur-na-Foen
| location=[[Hithlum]], bounded by [[Ered Gorgoroth]] and [[Echoriath]]
| type=Region
| description=Hilly region with pine forests
| regions=[[Ladros]]
| towns=
| inhabitants=[[Elves]], [[Men]], [[Orcs]]
| created=
| destroyed=
| events=[[Dagor Bragollach]], [[Massacre at Tarn Aeluin]]
}}
'''Dorthonion''' was a forested highland region in [[Hithlum]] that spanned sixty leagues from west to east.<ref> {{LR|Quenta}}, p. 272</ref> The hilly north-eastern section was called '''[[Ladros]]'''. Dorthonion was walled-in by the [[Echoriad|Echoriath]] ("Encircling Mountains") in the west and the [[Ered Gorgoroth]] ("Mountains of Terror") in the south.<ref name="Map">{{S|Map}}</ref>

From the plains of [[Ard-galen]] to the north, Dorthonion rose gradually until it became a bleak land of tarns and bare tors near the precipices of the Ered Gorgoroth. In the north and the west the land was covered with great forests of pines.<ref name="Beleriand">{{S|Beleriand}}</ref> The rivers [[Rivil]] and [[Mindeb]] had their sources in these uplands, as did the lake [[Aeluin]].<ref name="Map"/> In the centre of the land was a tall peak called [[Foen]].<ref>{{WJ|Beleriand}}, pp. 183, 187</ref>

==History==
The northern highlands, such as Dorthonion, were raised during the battles of the [[Ainur]] during the [[Battle of the Powers]].<Ref>{{S|3}}</ref>

In year {{FA|6|n}} of the [[First Age]]<ref>{{GA|64}}</ref> King [[Thingol]] gave permission to the [[Noldor]] to settle the lands north of Beleriand.<ref>{{S|Return}}</ref> North Dorthonion was ruled by the Elf-lords [[Angrod]] and [[Aegnor]] and Ladros was ruled by [[Finrod]].<ref name="Beleriand"/>

Later Finrod and his people removed to [[Nargothrond]] in the south, whilst Angrod and Aegnor ruled over those of their folk who still dwelt in Dorthonion, as vassals of their brother <ref>{{S|Beleriand}}</ref>. Ladros was then granted by [[High King of the Noldor]] [[Fingolfin]] to the House of Bëor as a fiefdom.<ref>{{S|West}}</ref>

In {{FA|455}} Dorthonion was overrun by the armies of [[Morgoth]] in the [[Dagor Bragollach]] ("Battle of Sudden Flame") and thereafter was called '''[[Taur-nu-Fuin (Dorthonion)|Taur-nu-Fuin]]''' ("Forest under Nightshade").<ref>{{S|Fingolfin}}</ref> [[Barahir]] refused to forsake Dorthonion and remained with twelve companions near [[Tarn Aeluin]]. Through the treachery of [[Gorlim]] nearly all of this band were killed, save for the son of [[Barahir]], [[Beren]]. Beren followed the [[Orcs]] who had killed his father to [[Rivil's Well]]. He then killed the Orc captain and recovered the [[Ring of Barahir]]. Eventually he was pursued so closely that Beren fled from Dorthonion over the [[Ered Gorgoroth]].<ref>{{S|Beren}}</ref>

Many, many years later, on [[29 February]], {{TA|3019}},<ref>{{App|Great}}</ref> [[Treebeard]] chanted to [[Meriadoc Brandybuck|Merry]] and [[Peregrin Took|Pippin]] as he carried them through [[Fangorn Forest]] and he mentioned "''To the pine-trees upon the highland of Dorthonion I climbed in the Winter.''"<ref>{{TT|III4}}</ref>

==Etymology==
{{Pronounce|Dorthonion.mp3|Ardamir}}
''Dorthonion'' means "Land of the Pine Trees" in [[Sindarin]], from ''[[dôr]]'' ("land, dwelling-place") + ''[[thôn]]'' ("pine tree").<ref>{{S|Appendix}}</ref>

In a philological fragment of uncertain date it is stated that Dorthonion was also called '''''Taur-no-Foen''''', the "Forest of the Foen".<ref>{{WJ|Beleriand}}, p. 187</ref>

{{references}}
[[Category:Beleriand]]
[[Category:Hills]]
[[Category:Regions]]
[[Category:Sindarin locations]]
[[de:Dorthonion]]
[[fi:Dorthonion]]
[[fr:encyclo:geographie:regions:beleriand:dorthonion]]

Teleri

2021-09-25T22:03:04Z

Protospace: /* Sundering of Teleri */

{{disambig-two|the Third Clan in general|Teleri of Aman|[[Falmari]]}}
{{people infobox
| name=Teleri
| image=[[File:Marya Filatova - One of the Teleri.jpg|250px]]
| caption="[[:File:Marya Filatova - One of the Teleri.jpg|One of the Teleri]]" by [[Marya Filatova]]
| pronun={{respell|tel|air-ee}}
| othernames=Nelya, Lindar, Sea-elves
| origin=
| location=[[Alqualondë]], [[Isle of Balar]], [[Ossiriand]], [[Doriath]], [[Tol Eressëa]], [[Edhellond]], [[Mithlond]], [[Lothlórien]], [[Mirkwood]]
| affiliation=
| rivalry=
| language=[[Common Telerin]], [[Telerin]], [[Sindarin]], [[Nandorin]]
| members=[[Elwë]], [[Olwë]], [[Celeborn]], [[Círdan]], [[Lenwë]]
| lifespan=Immortal
| distinctions=Adoration for the sea/forest
| height=Tall
| hair=Dark, silver
| skin=White
| clothing=
| weapons=
}}
{{quote|The greatest host came last, and they are named the Teleri, for they tarried on the road, and were not wholly of a mind to pass from the dusk to the light of [[Valinor]]. In water they had great delight, and those that came at last to the western shores were enamoured of the sea. The Sea-elves therefore they became in the land of [[Aman]], the Falmari, for they made music beside the breaking waves.|''[[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', "[[Of the Coming of the Elves and the Captivity of Melkor]]"}}
The '''Teleri''' were the third of the [[Elves|Elf]] clans who took the [[Great Journey]]. To them belonged the [[Valinor]]ean Teleri (known as the [[Falmari]]), and the [[Sindar]], [[Green-elves|Laiquendi]], and [[Nandor]] of [[Middle-earth]].

At first they were known as '''[[Nelyar]]''' ("The Third"), and were the largest of the three houses of the Firstborn. According to legend, they were descended from [[Enel]], the third Elf to [[Awakening of the Elves|awake]] in [[Cuiviénen]], his spouse [[Enelyë]] and their seventy-two companions; half of the [[Avari]] originally belonged to this clan.<ref group=note>Specifically 28 of the 56 [[Tatyar]] and 28 of the 74 Nelyar became Avari. These values are proportions of 144, not headcounts.</ref><ref>{{WJ|C}}, pp. 380-83</ref>

In ancient times they named themselves '''[[Teleri#Names|Lindar]]''', or "Singers", because they were known for their fair voice.

==History==
According to legend, the clan was founded by [[Enel]], the third Elf to awake at [[Cuiviénen]]. With him were his spouse [[Enelyë]] and their 72 companions, and this clan became known as the '''Nelyar'''.

=== During the Great Journey ===

When the [[Valar]] decided to bring the [[Quendi]] to [[Aman]], they chose three ambassadors. [[Ingwë]], [[Finwë]] and [[Elwë]] travelled there and tried to convince their people to make the journey. Out of the original 74 Nelyar who awoke at Cuiviénen, 28 refused and became part of the [[Avari]], "The Unwilling".

The Teleri clan was so numerous that it was led both by Elwë and his brother [[Olwë]]. They were the last clan to depart, and the only ones who were unwilling to leave the wild lands of [[Middle-earth]] and were usually the hindmost of the [[Great Journey]]. In their earliest days they had begun the crafting of rafts and paddle-driven boats, and their ships became larger and stronger upon their need to traverse the [[Sea of Rhûn]] on their westward journey.<ref>{{PM|Last}} p. 391-392</ref> After travelling for many years, the Teleri stopped near river [[Anduin]] being frightened by the [[Misty Mountains|Hithaeglir]] ([[Misty Mountains]]). Then a group led by [[Lenwë]] departed from the journey and headed south. They were called the [[Nandor]] ("Those who turn back"). Eventually, the other Teleri passed the Misty Mountains and reached Eastern [[Beleriand]] near the river [[Gelion]].

That was the time when Elwë fell in love with [[Melian]] the [[Maiar|Maia]] and became separated from the Teleri, standing in the forest of [[Nan Elmoth]] for a long time only staring at her. Olwë became their leader, but some Teleri, especially Elwë's friends and close relatives were searching for him for a long time and refused to continue their journey without him. Those in [[Sindarin]] were known as the [[Eglath]] as they forsook the Great Journey.

Being the hindmost, the Teleri were still near [[Gelion]] and failed to hear [[Ulmo]]'s call when the Vanyar and the Noldor travelled into the West. When they learned that the others had already departed, they headed to the shores of Beleriand near the mouth of the river [[Sirion]] waiting for [[Ulmo]]. The Maia [[Ossë]] kept them company while they waited, and became their friend. When they first beheld the sea, the Teleri became enamoured with it, and ever after desired to live close to the shore, being named 'Sea-elves' in Aman. <ref>{{S|3}}</ref>

Later, when Ulmo arrived again with the island ferry, most of the Teleri agreed to travel. Again, there were some who wanted to stay with Ossë, and they became known as [[Falathrim]] in Sindarin, with [[Círdan|Nowë]] as their leader.

Out of the 46 original Telerin Eldar who began the Great Journey, only 20 among them arrived in Aman with their offspring, whereas the other 26 firstborn remained in Middle-earth as Sindar or Nandor.<ref>{{WJ|Quendi}} p. 381</ref>

=== After the Great Journey ===
The island was stabilized by Ulmo near the [[Bay of Eldamar]], and it was named [[Tol Eressëa]], ''The Lonely Island''. The Teleri lived there for many years until they felt that they should see the other [[Eldar]] who lived in Aman proper. With the help of Ossë they built ships and travelled to the coasts of Aman, where they dwelt. There Olwë built [[Alqualondë]], the greatest city of Teleri, and its people were united with the people of [[Tirion]] and [[Finwë]].

In Beleriand, Elwë and Melian recovered from their enchantment. He united the Eglath who stayed back, and the Falathrim who accepted him as King of Beleriand. The folk of both Elwë and Nowë became collectively known as the [[Sindar]]. Later they were joined by the [[Laiquendi|Laegil]], the Nandor who resumed their journey to the west under [[Denethor (Nando)|Denethor]] and came to [[Ossiriand]].

Later, when [[Morgoth|Melkor]] stole the [[Silmarils]], the [[Noldor]] led by [[Fëanor]] demanded that the Teleri let them use their ships. When the Teleri refused, they took the ships by force, committing the [[First Kinslaying]]. For this reason few or none of the Teleri joined the host of the [[Valar]] which at the end of the [[First Age]] set out to capture [[Morgoth]] for good. It is recounted that the Teleri eventually forgave the Noldor for the Kinslayings, and the two kindreds were at peace again.

==Sundering of Teleri==
*'''[[Falmari]]'''. Led by [[Olwë]], they (along with [[Elwë]]) were the only [[Calaquendi]] of the Teleri clan. They lived in Tol Eressëa and along the east shores of Aman.

*'''[[Nandor]]''' Teleri who abandoned the Great Journey near river Anduin, led by [[Lenwë]].
**'''[[Laiquendi]]''' The Elves of [[Ossiriand]], who were themselves Nandor led by [[Denethor (Nando)|Denethor]].
**'''[[Silvan]]''' The Wood Elves, primarily in the [[Woodland Realm]] of [[Mirkwood]] and [[Lothlórien]].

*'''[[Sindar]]''' All Teleri who remained in Beleriand. The Sindar of [[Beleriand]] called themselves simply ''[[Sindar|Edhil]]'', which means ''Elves'', and is related to the Quenya word ''Eldar'' of the same meaning. Elwë was their King. These were further divided into:
**'''[[Iathrim]]'''<ref name="Q&E-B-S-3">{{WJ|B}}, 3</ref>, those who lived in [[Doriath]], the realm directly ruled by King [[Thingol]], that is Elwë.
**'''[[Falathrim]]''', those who lived in the [[Falas]] ruled by [[Círdan]].
**'''[[Elves of Mithrim|Mithrim]]'''<ref name="Q&E-B-S-3"/>, or Sindar of the North, those who lived north of Beleriand: in [[Hithlum]], especially in the area called after them [[Mithrim]], in [[Dorthonion]] or in [[Nevrast]]. They suffered most from Morgoth's attacks before the first rising of the Sun, and their remnants were largely absorbed by the Noldor who afterwards occupied those lands.

==Language==
The Teleri spoke the [[Common Telerin]] language during the Journey, from which [[Sindarin]] (with its dialects of [[Doriathrin]], [[Falathrin]] and [[North Sindarin]]) and [[Nandorin]] were derived, as well as the [[Telerin]] of Aman, often considered a dialect of [[Quenya]] (if only by virtue that it preserved more of the archaic Common Eldarin features than any other language and remained mutually intelligible with Quenya).

==Etymology==
''Teleri'' is the plural of ''Teler'' which means "last", root [[TEL]].{{fact}}

In ''[[The Silmarillion]]'' the word ''Teleri'' refers both to the Third Clan in general, and that branch that made it to Aman, taken from the Vanyar and Noldor point of view; particularly the Teleri of Aman were called [[Falmari]].

==Other names==
Equivalent names of the Teleri were '''''[[Nelyar]]''''' and '''''Lindar'''''. ''Lindar'' ([[Quenya]] "singers", pron. {{IPA|[ˈlindar]}}) was the name by which the [[Teleri]] called themselves.

Another name was [[Sindarin]] '''''Glinnil''''' (sing ''Glinnel''), a name which appears to have been used only by the loremasters among the Eldar.<ref>{{WJ|Quendi}}, pp. 378, 385</ref>

'''Sea-elves''' was yet another name of the Teleri, specifically those of that kin who came to [[Aman]] and dwelt at [[Alqualondë]] (the [[Falmari]]), for their love of the sea and reverence of [[Ulmo]]. The name "Sea-elves" was rendered ''Veaneldar'' in Quenya,<ref>{{LR|A1}}, p. 403</ref> consisting of ''vea(n)'' ("sea") + ''[[eldar]]'' ("elves").<ref>{{VT|36a}}, p. 20</ref>

The Teleri were also known by many other names: the Foam-riders, the Singers of the Shore, the Free, the Swift, the Arrow-elves (for their love of bow and arrow), the Elves of the Sea, the Ship-wrights, the Swanherds, the Gatherers of Pearl, the Blue Elves, and the people of Olwë.<ref>{{MR|P3I3}}, p. 164</ref>

==Other versions of the legendarium==
In the early versions of Tolkien's mythology (see: ''[[The History of Middle-earth]]''), they were known as '''''Solosimpi''''' ("Pipers of the Shores"), while the name ''Teleri'' was given to the clan of Elves known in the published version of ''[[The Silmarillion]]'' as [[Vanyar]].

{{elves}}
{{references|notes}}
[[Category:Elven peoples]]
[[Category:Teleri| ]]
[[Category:Quenya demonyms]]
[[de:Teleri]]
[[fr:encyclo:peuples:elfes:teleri:teleri]]
[[fi:Teleri (kansa)]]

Talk:Blue Wizards

2021-09-24T06:59:24Z

Protospace: /* New names */

Hildórien

2021-09-17T21:15:02Z

Protospace:

{{location infobox
| name=Hildórien
| image=[[File:Lady Elleth - First Sunrise.png|250px]]
| caption="First Sunrise" by Lady Elleth
| pronun={{respell|hil|door|ee-en}}
| othernames=Land of the Followers
| location=Far [[East]] of [[Middle-earth]]
| type=Region
| description=
| regions=
| towns=
| inhabitants=[[Men]]
| created=
| destroyed=
| events=[[Awakening of Men]]
}}
'''Hildórien''' was the land in the far [[east]] of [[Middle-earth]] in which the first [[Men]] or [[Hildor]] awoke at the beginning of the [[First Age]].<ref>{{S|12}}</ref><ref>{{S|Index}}</ref>

It was said among the [[Elves]] that [[Morgoth]] went there and put a darkness in the hearts of the Men.<ref>{{S|17}}</ref> Some Men, who were at war with those who fell under the [[Shadow]], fled Hildórien seeking the [[Light of Valinor|Light]] of the [[Aman|West]].<ref name=DM>{{PM|Dwarves}}</ref>

==Etymology==
The ''[[Silmarillion]]'' appendix confirms that ''Hildórien'' is of the same [[root]] as the word ''[[Hildor]]''.<ref>{{S|Elements}}</ref> It can be therefore understood as [[Quenya]] ''hildor'' + ''[[-nd|-ien]]'', therefore "Land of the Followers".

==Geography==
Hildorien was far to the east of [[Cuiviénen]], where the first Elves awoke.<ref>{{NM|P1vi}}, p. 38</ref> It may have been located on Middle-earth's shore with the [[East Sea]] and surrounded by the [[Mountains of the Wind]].<ref>In a very early map of symmetrical [[Arda]], there is a region marked "Hildorien" at the eastern shores Middle-earth and enclosed on three sides by the Mountains of the Wind. See {{SM|A4}}</ref>

==Other versions of the legendarium==
In ''[[The Book of Lost Tales]]'', Men awoke in a hidden valley called '''Murmenalda''', the Vale of Sleep or Slumbrous Dale. It was enclosed by a wall of encircling mountains, east of [[Palisor]], described as "hallowed" and full of sweet fragrances and odours, and songs of [[nightingales]], its beauty being comparable to [[Valinor]]. It was full of sleeping figures.

It was discovered by the [[Dark Elves|Dark Elf]] [[Nuin]] after finding a passage through the mountain wall. Nuin almost swooned at its loveliness and was puzzled by the Sleepers. Despite [[Tuvon|Tu]]'s warnings, Nuin visited it often to watch the Sleepers until, overcome with curiosity, he woke the first pair of them.<ref>{{LT1|X}}</ref>

''Murmenalda'' is [[Qenya]], composed of ''murme'' "sleep" ([[root]] MURU) and ''nalda'' (root NLDL).<ref>{{LT1|Appendix}}</ref>

==See also==
* [[Cuiviénen]]

{{references}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Hildorien}}
[[Category:Eastern lands]]
[[Category:Quenya locations]]
[[Category:Regions]]
[[de:Hildórien]]
[[fi:Hildórien]]
[[fr:encyclo/geographie/regions/hildorien]]

Cuiviénen

2021-09-17T20:44:14Z

Protospace: /* Geography */

{{expansion}}
{{location infobox
| name=Cuiviénen
| image=[[File:Ted Nasmith - At Lake Cuiviénen.jpg|250px]]
| caption="At Lake Cuiviénen" by [[Ted Nasmith]]
| pronun={{respell|koo|i|vee|eeh|nen}}
| othernames=''Nen Echui'' ([[Sindarin|S]])
| location=The distant [[East]] of [[Middle-earth]], on the eastern shores of the [[Sea of Helcar]]
| type=Bay
| description=
| regions=
| towns=
| inhabitants=[[Elves]]
| created=
| destroyed=
| events=[[Awakening of the Elves]]
}}
{{quote|In Cuiviénen sweet ran the waters under unclouded stars...|[[Fëanor]] in ''[[Quenta Silmarillion]]'', "[[Of the Flight of the Noldor]]"}}
'''Cuiviénen''' was a land on the shores of the inland [[Sea of Helcar]] in the far east of [[Middle-earth]] where the first [[Elves]] [[Awakening of the Elves|awoke]].<ref>{{S|Captivity}}</ref>

==History==
[[Ilúvatar]] [[Awakening of the Elves|awoke]] the first [[Elves]] in Cuiviénen in approximately 1050 of the [[Years of the Trees]]. From the first they were divided into three groups: the [[Minyar]], [[Tatyar]], and [[Nelyar]]. They dwelt in Cuiviénen for more than fifty [[Valian Years]] before the first [[Sundering of the Elves|sundering]]. Many of the Elves, particularly of the Minyar and Tatyar, journeyed west to [[Valinor]] and, if they did not tarry in Middle-earth, saw its light and became known as the [[Eldar]]. Those who remained were called the [[Avari]], the unwilling, for they did not desire to see the beauty of that land, but preferred the starlight of Cuiviénen.

==Geography==
Cuiviénen lay on the shores of a bay on the inland [[Sea of Helcar]]'s eastern end, at the foot of [[Orocarni]] near the [[Wild Wood]]. Located in the central regions of Middle-earth, Cuiviénen was far to the west of where the first Men later awoke in [[Hildórien]].<ref>{{NM|P1vi}}, p. 38</ref> It was approximately 2,000 miles east of [[Beleriand]]'s shoreline with [[Belegaer]] at [[Eglarest]], as the crow flies, and it was about a 450 mile march east or southeast of the inland [[Sea of Rhûn]].<ref>{{NM|P1vii}}, pp. 47, 49</ref>

==Etymology==
{{Pronounce|Cuivienen.mp3|Ardamir}}
The [[Quenya]] name ''Cuiviénen'' means "Water of Awakening", from ''[[cuivië]]'' ("awakening") + ''[[nen]]'' ("water").<ref>{{S|Index}}</ref>

The [[Noldorin]]/[[Sindarin]] cognate was '''''Nen Echui'''''.<ref>{{LR|A2}}, p. 406</ref><ref>{{LR|Etymologies}}, entry "KUY-"</ref>

==See also==
*[[Hildórien]]
{{references}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Cuivienen}}
[[Category:Bays]]
[[Category:Eastern lands]]
[[Category:Pronounced articles]]
[[Category:Quenya locations]]
[[Category:Regions]]
[[de:Cuiviénen]]
[[fi:Cuiviénen]]
[[fr:encyclo:geographie:eaux:cuivienen]]

Sea of Rhûn

2021-09-17T20:33:08Z

Protospace:

{{disambig-more|Inland Sea|[[Inland Sea (disambiguation)]]}}
{{location infobox
| name=Sea of Rhûn
| image=[[File:Sea of Rhun.png|250px]]
| caption=Sea of Rhûn from [[Stephen Raw]]'s [[:File:Stephen Raw - Middle-earth map (2 of 4).png|Map of Middle-earth]]
| pronun=
| othernames=
| location=[[Rhûn]]
| type=Inland Sea
| description=
| regions=
| towns=
| inhabitants=
| created=
| destroyed=
| events=
}}

The '''Sea of Rhûn''' was a large lake or sea in northern [[Middle-earth]] that lay east of [[Rhovanion]] on the western borders of [[Rhûn]]. The [[Kine of Araw]] were found in the fields of Rhûn near the Inland Sea.<ref>{{RK|V1}}</ref><ref>{{App|South}}</ref>

==Geography==
The [[River Running|Celduin]] flowed from the north-west into an arm of the sea. West of the Sea of Rhûn was the land of [[Dorwinion]], and roughly 200 miles (300 km) to the south was the eastern end of the [[Ered Lithui]].

A forest stood at the north-eastern shore of the sea, and near the south-western shore there were many hills. The south-eastern part of the Sea was occupied by a small wooded island.

==History==
In the [[Years of the Trees]] during the time of the [[Great Journey]], the [[Eldar]] reached the Sea of Rhûn after marching 450 miles west or northwest from [[Cuiviénen]].<ref name=NM>{{NM|P1vii}}, pp. 47, 49</ref> The craft of ship-making practised by the [[Teleri]] reached new heights in their efforts to traverse the Sea of Rhûn on their westward journey.<ref name=Last>{{PM|Last}} pp. 391-392</ref>

In the [[First Age]], the shores of the Inland Sea were populated by tribes of [[Men]] who were migrating to the [[West]]. The [[House of Bëor|Lesser Folk]] arrived there first and dwelt at the feet of the nearby hills. The [[House of Hador|Greater Folk]] came later in the north-east woods near the shores. The Men crafted boats and could sail the sea, but they did not meet often, and their languages soon diverged<ref>{{PM|Ros}}</ref> before they resumed their journey to [[Beleriand]].

In the early [[Third Age]], the [[Kings of Gondor]] such as [[Rómendacil I]] campaigned to those lands, and [[Turambar (King of Gondor)|Turambar]] expanded the kingdom to the East. By the time of King [[Hyarmendacil I]], the Inland Sea formed one of the boundaries of [[Gondor]].<ref name=gondor/>

[[Vorondil]] hunted the Kine of Araw near the shores of the Sea.<ref name=gondor>{{App|Gondor}}</ref>

During the time of [[Rómendacil II]], the Inland Sea was apparently within the borders of the power of [[Gondor]].

==Etymology==
{{pronounce|Sindarin - Rhûn.mp3|Gilgamesh}}''[[Rhûn]]'' is simply [[Sindarin]] for "East".<ref>{{App|E2i}}</ref> [[Tolkien]] considered calling the Sea ''Rhûnaer''<ref>{{TI|XV}}, p. 307</ref> or ''Rúnaeluin''.<ref>{{SD|VII}}, p. 65. Cf. note 9</ref>

==Other versions of the legendarium==
In the drafts for the ''[[Lord of the Rings]]'', the sea was called "Sea of Rhûnaer". In the earlier maps, part of the Sea was more clearly occupied by a heavily wooded island.<ref>{{TI|MII}}</ref> In the published maps by [[Christopher Tolkien]], the island is represented by a dotted pattern.<ref>{{FR|Map}}</ref> The reason for this change and what it signifies was never specified by C. Tolkien. There is no trace of the unnamed island in [[Pauline Baynes]]'s ''[[A Map of Middle-earth]]''.

Also in these early maps, Tolkien indicated that ''[[Neldoreth]]'' was the name of the forest bordering the Sea of Rhûn's north-eastern shore. This forest went unnamed in later maps.<ref>{{TI|MII}}, p. 307</ref>

==Theories==
Christopher Tolkien once questioned whether the Sea of Rhûn could "...be identified with the [[Sea of Helcar]], vastly shrunken".<ref>{{WJ|Two}} p. 174.</ref> [[Karen Wynn Fonstad]] adopted this position in making ''[[The Atlas of Middle-earth]]''. However, in ''[[The Peoples of Middle-earth]]'' and ''[[The Nature of Middle-earth]]'', which were published after Fonstad's ''Atlas'', the Sea of Rhûn and its surrounding geographical landmarks exist as far back as the [[Years of the Trees]] at the time of the [[Great Journey]], hundreds of miles west of where the Elves awoke near the Sea of Helcar.<ref name=Last/><ref name=NM />

==See also==
* [[East Sea]]
* [[Sea of Helcar]]
* [[Sea of Ringil]]

{{references}}
[[Category:Eastern lands]]
[[Category:Lakes]]
[[Category:Rhovanion]]
[[Category:Seas and oceans]]
[[de:Meer von Rhûn]]
[[fi:Rhûnin Järvi]]
[[fr:/encyclo/geographie/eaux/mer_de_rhun]]

Sea of Rhûn

2021-09-17T20:20:35Z

Protospace: /* History */

{{disambig-more|Inland Sea|[[Inland Sea (disambiguation)]]}}
{{location infobox
| name=Sea of Rhûn
| image=[[File:Sea of Rhun.png|250px]]
| caption=Sea of Rhûn from [[Stephen Raw]]'s [[:File:Stephen Raw - Middle-earth map (2 of 4).png|Map of Middle-earth]]
| pronun=
| othernames=
| location=[[Rhûn]]
| type=Inland Sea
| description=
| regions=
| towns=
| inhabitants=
| created=
| destroyed=
| events=
}}

The '''Sea of Rhûn''' was a large lake or sea in northern [[Middle-earth]] that lay east of [[Rhovanion]] on the western borders of [[Rhûn]]. The [[Kine of Araw]] were found in the fields of Rhûn near the Inland Sea.<ref>{{RK|V1}}</ref><ref>{{App|South}}</ref>

==Geography==
The [[River Running|Celduin]] flowed from the north-west into an arm of the sea. West of the Sea of Rhûn was the land of [[Dorwinion]], and roughly 200 miles (300 km) to the south was the eastern end of the [[Ered Lithui]].

A forest stood at the north-eastern shore of the sea, and near the south-western shore there were many hills. The south-eastern part of the Sea was occupied by a small wooded island.

==History==
In the [[Years of the Trees]] during the time of the [[Great Journey]], the [[Eldar]] reached the Sea of Rhûn after marching 450 miles west or northwest from [[Cuiviénen]].<ref>{{NM|P1vii}}, pp. 47, 49</ref> The craft of ship-making practised by the [[Teleri]] reached new heights in their efforts to traverse the Sea of Rhûn on their westward journey.<ref name=Last>{{PM|Last}} pp. 391-392</ref>

In the [[First Age]], the shores of the Inland Sea were populated by tribes of [[Men]] who were migrating to the [[West]]. The [[House of Bëor|Lesser Folk]] arrived there first and dwelt at the feet of the nearby hills. The [[House of Hador|Greater Folk]] came later in the north-east woods near the shores. The Men crafted boats and could sail the sea, but they did not meet often, and their languages soon diverged<ref>{{PM|Ros}}</ref> before they resumed their journey to [[Beleriand]].

In the early [[Third Age]], the [[Kings of Gondor]] such as [[Rómendacil I]] campaigned to those lands, and [[Turambar (King of Gondor)|Turambar]] expanded the kingdom to the East. By the time of King [[Hyarmendacil I]], the Inland Sea formed one of the boundaries of [[Gondor]].<ref name=gondor/>

[[Vorondil]] hunted the Kine of Araw near the shores of the Sea.<ref name=gondor>{{App|Gondor}}</ref>

During the time of [[Rómendacil II]], the Inland Sea was apparently within the borders of the power of [[Gondor]].

==Etymology==
{{pronounce|Sindarin - Rhûn.mp3|Gilgamesh}}''[[Rhûn]]'' is simply [[Sindarin]] for "East".<ref>{{App|E2i}}</ref> [[Tolkien]] considered calling the Sea ''Rhûnaer''<ref>{{TI|XV}}, p. 307</ref> or ''Rúnaeluin''.<ref>{{SD|VII}}, p. 65. Cf. note 9</ref>

==Other versions of the legendarium==
In the drafts for the ''[[Lord of the Rings]]'', the sea was called "Sea of Rhûnaer". In the earlier maps, part of the Sea was occupied by a heavily wooded island.<ref>{{TI|MII}}</ref> In the published maps by [[Christopher Tolkien]], the island is replaced by a dotted pattern.<ref>{{FR|Map}}</ref> The reason for this change and what it signifies was never specified by C. Tolkien. There is no trace of the unnamed island in [[Pauline Baynes]]'s ''[[A Map of Middle-earth]]''.

Also in these early maps, Tolkien indicated that ''[[Neldoreth]]'' was the name of the forest bordering the Sea of Rhûn's north-eastern shore. This forest went unnamed in later maps.<ref>{{TI|MII}}, p. 307</ref>

==Theories==
Christopher Tolkien and others have speculated whether or not the Sea of Rhûn can "...be identified with the [[Sea of Helcar]], vastly shrunken".<ref>{{WJ|Two}} p. 174.</ref> [[Karen Wynn Fonstad]] adopted this position in making ''[[The Atlas of Middle-earth]]''. However, in ''[[The Peoples of Middle-earth]]'', there are references to the Sea of Rhûn and its surrounding geographical landmarks existing as far back as the [[Years of the Trees]] at the time of the [[Great Journey]], far to the west of where the Elves awoke near the Sea of Helcar.<ref name=Last/>

==See also==
* [[East Sea]]
* [[Sea of Helcar]]
* [[Sea of Ringil]]

{{references}}
[[Category:Eastern lands]]
[[Category:Lakes]]
[[Category:Rhovanion]]
[[Category:Seas and oceans]]
[[de:Meer von Rhûn]]
[[fi:Rhûnin Järvi]]
[[fr:/encyclo/geographie/eaux/mer_de_rhun]]