THE RINGS OF POWER Finally Reveals The Stranger’s Name and Identity

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As a longtime fan of J.R.R. Tolkien’s lore and someone who has spent countless hours delving into the intricacies of Middle-earth, I find myself both delighted and perplexed by the naming of Gandalf in The Rings of Power. On one hand, it is a thrilling moment to finally see our beloved wizard take on his iconic name, even if it comes from an unexpected source. However, as someone who has spent years studying the nuances of Middle-earth’s languages and cultures, I must admit that the execution leaves something to be desired.

In the final episode of season two, the creators of “The Rings of Power” delivered on their promise to reveal The Stranger’s identity. As many fans had anticipated since his fiery entrance into Middle-earth, it was none other than Gandalf – a cherished wizard from “The Lord of the Rings” saga. In keeping with the whimsical spirit of J.R.R. Tolkien’s works, we learned of his true identity in an amusing and fitting manner.

In “The Rings of Power,” The Stranger and Nori are parting company, but not without some assistance from the Stoors first. They aided the wizard in uncovering his true name, which he gratefully acknowledged with, “Thank you kindly, Elder Elf.” As they bid their farewells, Gundabel also chimed in with a heartfelt “Goodbye, Elder Elf.

Upon hearing the term “Grand Elf”, a hidden truth surfaced in The Stranger’s consciousness. Once he returned to Tom Bombadil’s cottage, he realized what moniker would be bestowed upon him in Middle-earth. With confidence, the wizard declared on the final episode of The Rings of Power season two, “Gandalf… that’s what they will call me, isn’t it?

As the wizard uttered his well-known title during an episode of The Rings of Power, it seemed less like a surprising disclosure and more like a validation of what we had suspected all along. From the moment he graced our screens, the clues suggested that The Stranger was none other than Gandalf. The celestial beings, the Valar, sent him to Middle-earth in a comet’s trail. Later, Nori discovered him amidst a fiery ring, and it is prophesied that Gandalf will wield the Elf ring of power, Narya, which symbolizes fire. He also possesses an immunity to flames and can communicate with various creatures. Furthermore, his distinctive appearance and affinity for halflings made it almost unthinkable that The Rings of Power‘s Stranger could be anyone other than Gandalf. What was left to wonder was how he would come to know his name.

One of the most famous, consequential figures in all of Middle-earth history getting his iconic name from a clunky blending of two words is silly enough on its own. But this reveal really doesn’t make sense in the context of the show. The Stoors might have never met an elf before, but they almost certainly know they have pointed ears and don’t grow often grow beards. Plus they know plenty about wizards thanks to the presence of the Dark Wizard in Rhûn. Also, Nori and Poppy were right there. They would have told the Stoors their heroic tall friend is a wizard and not an elf.

As a gamer, I found it plausible that Merimac was perplexed by The Stranger’s true identity. Yet, Gundabel is too clever to slip up like that. It just didn’t make sense for the Stoors to label him as a “Grand Elf.” But despite its flaws, the link between the name “Gandalf” and his being referred to as an “elf” in The Rings of Power is rooted in Tolkien’s original work.

In simpler terms, “Gandalf” is a term meaning “Staff-carrying Elf,” as many in Middle-earth assumed that immortals were elves. Since Gandalf was magical, immortal, and carried a staff, he came to be known as the “Staff Elf.” Even when it was discovered that Gandalf could age and therefore wasn’t an elf, the name had already become commonplace. He would continue using this nickname when meeting new people.

As a gamer immersed in Middle Earth lore, I’d rephrase it like this: “Just like my character, Gandalf, didn’t stumble upon his name or his staff – they were destined for him all along. Sometimes, even when we think we know our role, it finds us in unexpected ways. So, with great pleasure, I welcome the arrival of Gandalf on The Rings of Power! Here’s hoping Ian McKellen takes this new casting as graciously as my character would accept a quest.

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2024-10-03 11:32