Wizard facts for kids

A wizard, also called a magician or sorcerer, is a person in stories and myths who can use magic. Sometimes, a female wizard is called a sorceress. These characters often have special powers, either from birth, from training, or both. They might also have a strong connection to supernatural beings, like gods or fairies.

This painting shows Odin the Wanderer, who often dressed like a wizard.

What is a Wizard?

Wizards are characters who use magic to do amazing things. They can cast spells, create illusions, or even change the world around them. Their magic might come from a special gift they were born with, or from years of studying ancient books and secret arts.

Good and Evil Wizards

In many stories, wizards can be either good or evil. Good wizards often use their powers to help others and fight against dark forces. Evil wizards, on the other hand, might use their magic for selfish reasons or to cause harm.

• Good Wizards:
  • Albus Dumbledore from the Harry Potter series is a powerful and wise headmaster.
  • Gandalf from J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth stories is a helpful guide and protector.

• Evil Wizards:
  • Voldemort from Harry Potter is a dark wizard who seeks power and control.
  • Saruman from Middle-earth turns to evil and tries to dominate others.

How Wizards Look

Many people imagine wizards as old men with long, flowing beards. They often wear a large, pointed hat, a thick cloak, and carry a staff. This classic look might come from old stories about Odin the Wanderer. Odin was a god from Norse mythology who sometimes disguised himself this way to travel among people without being recognized.

Female Wizards

While the word "wizard" usually refers to a male character, many female characters play similar magical roles. They are often called sorceresses, witches, or enchantresses.

• Morgan le Fay from the Arthurian legends is a powerful sorceress.
• Circe from Greek mythology was a goddess of magic who could turn people into animals.

Wizards in Real Life

Sometimes, the word "wizard" is used to describe someone who is incredibly skilled or creative in a non-magical way. It means they are so good at something, it seems like magic! For example, Thomas Edison, a famous American inventor, was nicknamed "the Wizard of Menlo Park" because of all his amazing inventions.

Related pages

• Witch
• Witchcraft

See also

In Spanish: Wizard para niños