Philip Marlowe

Philip Marlowe is a private detective and the protagonist in the story. He works in Los Angeles and lives in an apartment in Hollywood. Marlowe is very observant and makes note of small details. He is not married, drinks regularly, and enjoys chess.

Marlowe presents a tough persona, often making wisecracks and sarcastic remarks. He is suspicious of most people and does not trust police officers. He lives by his own moral code, which sometimes calls for withholding the truth to protect his clients, to whom he promises his loyalty. He is not above tampering with a crime scene if it serves his purpose.

Marlowe distrusts the rich socialites with whom he has to associate while working. He relates much more closely with the working-class chauffeurs, elevator operators, beat cops and bartenders he runs into. He has a consistent sense of justice which is not entirely based...