Saruman

Within Tolkien's cosmology Saruman is one of the Istari, beings of Maia origin sent to Middle-earth in human form by the Valar to aid the Free Peoples against Sauron. He is presented as the chief of the Istari: learned, given delegated authority and counsel among Men, Elves and other races, and leader of the White Council. Over time his study, pride, and desire for order and mastery lead him to betray his mission; he seeks to rival or control Sauron and pursues domination rather than guidance. Secondary sources and encyclopedic treatments give Elvish/Valarin forms such as Curumo/Curunír for his name, reflecting his deeper origin as a Maia‑class being acting in human guise.

Sources emphasize Saruman's titular colors and presentation rather than detailed bodily features: he is first known as 'Saruman the White' and later as 'Saruman of Many Colours', a change that signals his fall from the established office of 'the White'. His presence is repeatedly tied to his voice and persuasive manner — Tolkien and commentators highlight 'the Voice of Saruman' as a central trait — and to garments of changing colours. The provided materials do not supply an extended literal physical description (height, hair, exact facial features).

Saruman is described as exceptionally learned in lore — notably in Rings of Power scholarship — skilled in craft and subtle with speech. He wields authority as leader of the Istari and of the White Council, uses rhetorical persuasion ('the Voice') to manipulate individuals and peoples, and marshals industrial and military power: he industrializes the valley of Isengard, raises and commands war-bands including cross-bred fighting forces and Wargs, and employs servants like Gríma Wormtongue for political manipulation. He uses symbolic magical/authoritative implements (a staff) and communicates via devices such as the palantír (noted in secondary summaries). His methods blend knowledge, technical/industrial organization, and psychological manipulation rather than only brute sorcery.