Alden Pyle is a fictional character from the novel "The Quiet American," written by Graham Greene. He is an idealistic American who arrives in Vietnam during the early 1950s, amidst the conflict between the French colonial forces and the rising nationalist movements. Pyle is portrayed as naive yet earnest, believing in the power of democracy and American intervention. Throughout the story, Pyle's actions and beliefs create tension with other characters, particularly Thomas Fowler, a British journalist. Pyle's commitment to his ideals often leads to unintended consequences, highlighting the complexities of foreign involvement in local affairs and the moral ambiguities of war.