Beth Harmon is a fictional character from the novel "The Queen's Gambit" by Walter Tevis, which was later adapted into a popular Netflix miniseries. She is an orphaned chess prodigy who rises to prominence in the male-dominated world of competitive chess during the 1960s. Beth struggles with personal issues, including addiction to drugs and alcohol, while navigating her career. Her journey highlights themes of genius, isolation, and the impact of mental health on success. Throughout the story, she develops her skills and ultimately seeks to become the world's greatest chess player.