Jack Aubrey is a fictional character created by author Patrick O'Brian in his series of historical novels known as the Aubrey–Maturin series. He is a British naval officer during the early 19th century, known for his leadership skills, bravery, and strategic acumen in naval warfare. Aubrey's character is often accompanied by his close friend, Stephen Maturin, a ship's doctor and intelligence agent. Together, they navigate the challenges of life at sea, including battles, ship management, and personal relationships, while exploring themes of friendship, loyalty, and the complexities of naval life during the Napoleonic Wars.