William Laurence is a fictional character from the book series titled “Temeraire,” written by Naomi Novik. He is a British naval officer during the early 19th century, known for his strong sense of duty and honor. Laurence's life changes dramatically when he becomes the captain of a dragon named Temeraire, which leads him into a world of aerial combat and adventure. Throughout the series, Laurence's character evolves as he navigates the complexities of his relationship with Temeraire and the challenges of war. His dedication to his dragon and his crew highlights themes of friendship, loyalty, and the moral dilemmas faced during the Napoleonic Wars.