Here are some considerations and examples:
Different Traditions and Mythologies:
* Merlin: The iconic wizard from Arthurian legend, often associated with powerful magic, wisdom, and prophecy.
* Gandalf the Grey/White: A powerful wizard from Tolkien's "Lord of the Rings," known for his wisdom, leadership, and courage in the face of evil.
* Saruman: Another wizard from Tolkien's works, with immense power but corrupted by his lust for control.
* Morgan le Fay: Arthurian sorceress, often depicted as powerful and cunning, though sometimes portrayed as an antagonist.
* Dumbledore: Headmaster of Hogwarts and the most powerful wizard in the Harry Potter universe, known for his love of knowledge and his ultimate sacrifice.
* Voldemort: Harry Potter's arch-nemesis, a powerful dark wizard obsessed with power and immortality.
Real World vs. Fiction:
* Niccolò Machiavelli: Not a sorcerer in the literal sense, but his writings, particularly "The Prince," are sometimes referred to as "Machiavellian magic" due to their focus on power and manipulation.
* Alice Bailey: A self-proclaimed esoteric teacher and author who claimed to channel messages from spiritual beings.
* Aleister Crowley: An English occultist, ceremonial magician, and author who founded Thelema.
Criteria for "Greatest":
* Power: This is often the most obvious criterion. The sorcerer with the most potent magic.
* Wisdom: A deep understanding of magic, knowledge, and strategy.
* Moral Compass: Is the sorcerer a force for good or evil?
* Influence: How impactful was the sorcerer's magic on the world or story?
Ultimately, the answer to "Who was the greatest sorcerer?" is a matter of personal opinion and depends on how you define "greatest."