H.M.S. Surprise | Characters & Character Analysis

H.M.S. Surprise Characters

Jack Aubrey

Aubrey is one of the principle protagonists of the novel and shares the spotlight with his particular friend and confidant Stephen Maturin. Aubrey is a larger-than-life character with dash and charisma. He is an unchallenged and undoubted master in his element of the sea; a legendary captain, a masterful navigator, a superb tactician, and an undefeatable warrior. Although he is intelligent he relies more on experience, insight, and a nearly infallible instinct to carry him through the various perils he encounters.

Aubrey is a recently-appointed post captain without a permanent assignment. He begins the novel in temporary command of H.M.S. Lively, but quickly surrenders the frigate to its normal captain and returns to half-pay and shore leave. Aubrey's father is involved in politics and is an abrasive and vocal member of an unpopular minority; Aubrey is therefore unlikely to secure a command of his own. Just as Aubrey is a...
(read more)