Gandalf (Old Norse:Gandálfr[ˈɡɑndˌɑːlvz̠]) is a Dvergr (Norse dwarf) inNorse mythology, appearing in the so-called 'Tally of the Dwarves' within the poemVöluspá from thePoetic Edda,[1] as well as in theProse Edda. The name derives from theOld Norse wordsgandr (magical entity e.g. wands, monsters etc.) andálfr (elf), thus aprotective spirit who wields a magicalwand.[2][failed verification]
The name was also used for a Norse king in theHeimskringla.[3]
In his fictional writings,J. R. R. Tolkien eventually named his wizardGandalf after the Dvergr,[2] but initially used the name for the head of the dwarf party (ultimately to be calledThorin Oakenshield).[4]
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