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If there are only five wizards, and they're high up in the godly echelon, why do they need a leader for their order? Or is Saruman the leader of the Wise, and not only the Wizards? Or something else? Like, he's really the Wizards' spokesman for the Wise?
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The Valar sent the Istari to come and aid the Elves and Man. The White Council was formed to counter the darkness/evil that was growing. Originally four istari, Yavanna (or was it Varda?) requested Olorin/Mithrandir/Gandalf to go too (in UT).
I believe that originally Galadriel had wanted Gandalf to head the White council, but Gandalf declined. That she suspected Saruman of his duplicity is not known stated. The leadership than fell on Saruman. Spokesperson? naw... it was more like the head of the council would "advice" through his wisdom.
Saruman/Curunir was considered the most skilled (and crafty). Gandalf, in my opinion was more humble (I too would have voted for him to head the council).
I think that the title "The White" was a rank of sorts the Istari gained depending on the fulfillment of their duties as was set upon them. Gandalf did gain this title after he defeated Saruman. (Okay, after he was "resurrected", he became Gandalf the White). Its in TTT... but Unfinished Tales has a section regarding the Istari - its a good read, like the Silmarilion. [img]smilies/biggrin.gif[/img]
sorry if this post was kinda long... i tend to blab... [img]smilies/tongue.gif[/img]
[ April 21, 2002: Message edited by: Thalionyulma ]