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...