Peter Blood is the eponymous protagonist of Captain Blood. Blood’s dramatic odyssey transforms him from a country doctor to an enslaved convict, then to a pirate, and finally to a government official. His character is full of contrasts and contradictions that form a complex personality. The description of Blood’s background in the first chapter reveals a wealth of incongruities: Blood’s father was Irish, and his mother was English; he was raised Catholic but only claims the religion when it is convenient; he earned a degree in medicine but didn’t immediately practice. He instead joined foreign countries’ military forces, although he didn’t have any personal ties to those countries. He then sailed toward Ireland, but poor health and dangerous winds forced him to disembark in Bridgewater Bay, in his late mother’s home county of Somersetshire. He settled in Bridgewater, where he established his medical practice. Blood’s voice, physical attributes, and style also consist of opposing traits, particularly his bright blue eyes, which contrast with his black hair and olive complexion.

Blood’s apparent callousness is a mask to hide deep humanity and compassion. For example, he believes it’s his duty to provide medical care for the wounded rebel Lord Gildoy, despite his low opinion of the rebellion.