Gandalf and Merlin: J.R.R. Tolkien's Adoption and Transformation of a Literary Tradition (Critical Essay‪)‬

IN A 1954 ESSAY, DESIGNED ORIGINALLY to provide an index of names for The Lord of the Rings, (1) J.R.R. Tolkien introduces Gandalf as the least of the Istari, the messengers from Valar: [L]ast came one who seemed the least, less tall than the others, and in looks more aged, grey-haired and grey-clad, and leaning on a staff. But Cirdan from their first meeting at the Grey Havens divined in him the greatest spirit and the wisest; and he welcomed him with reverence, and he gave to his keeping the Third Ring, Narya the Red. (Unfinished 389)