Comments: As a member of the Istari, the ancient and powerful Gandalf the Grey is sent to Middle-earth to orchestrate the forces of light against the growing darkness. Gandalf is a trusted ally and provides wise counsel to the many peoples of Middle-earth. First to discover the true nature of Bilbo's Ring, Gandalf guides Bilbo's heir, Frodo Baggins, to Rivendell. There, Frodo takes up the responsibility for the Ring's destruction. Guide and mentor to Frodo in his quest, Gandalf leads the Fellowship of the Ring on the path to the fires of Mount Doom.
As the Fellowship of the Ring ventures deep within the Mines of Moria, they are confronted by one of the most powerful and evil beings in all of Middle-earth, a Balrog. Narrowly making their way across a vast chasm and near to the exit from Moria, the fellowship is overtaken by the beast of shadow and flame. Only the magic and might of Gandalf the Grey is strong enough to save Frodo and his companions. Standing firm in the path of danger, the noble wizard fends off the Balrog as the others escape certain death. The Balrog falls deep into the mines, and though he saves the fellowship, Gandalf is not able to escape the fiery whip of the Balrog. Urging Frodo and the Fellowship to carry on, Gandalf the Grey falls into the abyss.
Though his mortal body is sacrificed, Gandalf the Grey is strong in spirit, deep in wisdom, and skilled in magic. His words as Frodo's friend and mentor continue to guide Frodo as the Fellowship of the Ring ventures to save Middle-earth. His mission to unite the forces of the light is left unfinished, but hope lives on with Frodo and Aragorn. |
