Inspector Endeavour Morse is a
fictional character in the eponymous series of
detective novels by British author
Colin Dexter. On television, he appears in the 33-episode 1987–2000 drama series
Inspector Morse, in which
John Thaw played the character, as well as the 2012 series
Endeavour, portrayed by
Shaun Evans. Morse originally is described as a senior
CID (Criminal Investigation Department) officer with the Thames Valley Police force in
Oxford, England. Morse presents a reasonably likeable persona, despite his sullen temperament, with a
Jaguar car (a
Lancia in the early novels), a thirst for English
real ale, and a penchant for music (especially opera and
Wagner), poetry, art, classics, classic cars, and cryptic crossword puzzles. He is often assisted by his Sergeant
Robert "Robbie" Lewis. Morse's partnership and friendship with Lewis is a fundamental aspect of the series.