Detective Sergeant Burden is a fictional character from the Inspector Morse series, created by author Colin Dexter. He serves as the loyal assistant to the main character, Inspector Morse, and is known for his practical approach to police work. Burden often balances Morse's more eccentric methods with his own straightforward style. In the series, Burden is depicted as a dedicated officer who values teamwork and has a strong sense of duty. His character provides a contrast to Morse's complex personality, highlighting the dynamics of their partnership as they solve various crimes in Oxford.