Sample of literary figures
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Barlach
Male
Although he only features in two (short) novels by Friedrich Dürrenmatt, Inspector Barlach – no first name is ever mentioned – is one of the most famous policemen in literature. He is old, worn out and unmarried, works in the police force in Bern and has stomach cancer, which he knows will lead to his death within a year. With his great knowledge of human nature and his intuition, he works on his investigations.
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Jane Tennison
Female
A British police detective, originally the main character in a TV-series scripted by Lynda La Plante who wrote a handful of novels about her. On TV she was portrayed by Helen Mirren, and is thus described like her in the books: a middle-aged, well-groomed woman, who is also a tough and realistically portrayed police officer. Later, La Plante has written a series of novels that describe Tennison’s first years in the police force.
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Will Robie
Male
When the police and the military can’t stop the USA’s enemies, the government calls in its most skilful assassin. He never questions an order and never fails, David Baldacci ensures us. The well-built Will Robie has sharp facial features, dark hair and a lot of scars on his torso and arms. A weak point, however, is his feelings for Jessica Reel, she too a notorious and effective US agent.
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William Wisting
Male
Norwegian author Jørn Lier Horst is a former police officer, and his main character has the same profession: William Wisting is a middle-aged police detective in Larvik. He has a big head, a sharply defined face with high cheekbones, and his hair is going grey. He has been a widower for some years, and even though he likes his job he is looking forward to retiring so he can spend more time with his daughter Line and his granddaughter Amalie.