The "Continental Op" is a fictional private detective created by author Dashiell Hammett. He is known for his tough, no-nonsense approach to solving crimes and is featured in several of Hammett's stories, including "The Big Knockover" and "The Glass Key." The character is often seen as a precursor to the hard-boiled detective genre, which emphasizes realism and moral ambiguity. The Continental Op works for the Continental Detective Agency, which is a fictional agency in Hammett's stories. Unlike many detectives, he remains unnamed throughout the narratives, allowing readers to focus on his actions and methods. His character embodies the gritty, urban landscape of early 20th-century America, reflecting the complexities of crime and justice.