"White Wizard" was the title held by the two chiefs of the Istari (Wizards), both sent to help Free Peoples of Middle-earth in the struggle against the Dark Lord Sauron.
History
The first White Wizard was the Maia Saruman (Curumo), known to the Elves as Curunír. Saruman was the first of the Istari to volunteer and, because he was "higher in Valinórean stature", he became their chief. In Middle-earth, he was also chosen to lead the White Council. But, wanting to "order all the world to his will", he was brought low by his greed and became "an ally, or servant, of Sauron", albeit coveting the One Ring for himself.
The second White Wizard was the wise Maia Gandalf (Olórin), or Mithrandir as the Elves called him. Fearing Sauron and temptation, Gandalf hesitated to go to Middle-earth, but was commanded to do so by Manwë, viceregent of Ilúvatar. He also joined the White Council, conferring with the lords of the Eldar on how to oppose Sauron. Gandalf soon became "the Enemy of Sauron", even sacrificing his life for his mission. He was then sent back to assume Saruman's mantle and right his wrongs.
Both White Wizards played important parts in shaping the history of the Third Age, especially the events that affected Men and Elves. As "the director and coordinator of both attack and defence" against the Dark Lord, Gandalf rallied the Free Peoples in their hour of need, ensuring the downfall of Sauron and the Dominion of Men. His task done, he left Middle-earth and returned to Valinor. Saruman, on the other hand, failed completely, betraying both the Free Peoples and his "new master". Even when given the chance "to renounce both Mordor and his private schemes", Saruman refused. In the end, he was defeated in the Battle of Bywater and his spirit was barred from returning to Middle-earth.
Trivia
- Before his corruption, Saruman was also known as the White Messenger. After being sent back, Gandalf's alias of the "Grey Pilgrim" was altered to the White Rider.
- Even though he once styled himself as "Saruman of Many Colors", Saruman's emblem as Lord of Isengard was the White Hand.
- At Cuiviénen, Melian had acted as chief of the Five Guardians (the future Istari), though she did not hold the mantle of White Wizard.