Kurt Wallander is a fictional detective created by Swedish author Henning Mankell. He is the protagonist in a series of crime novels set in Sweden, where he works for the police in the town of Ystad. Wallander is known for his complex personality, often grappling with personal issues and the moral dilemmas of his job. The Wallander series has gained international acclaim and has been adapted into various films and television series, including a popular Swedish version and a British adaptation starring Kenneth Branagh. Wallander's character reflects themes of loneliness, societal change, and the impact of crime on individuals and communities.