The character Sharpe is fiction, but apparently he was inspired by journals or records of an actual soldier in the Napoleonic wars. I once read an article stating that the REAL soldier originated from my home town of Bradford (Yorkshire). The fictional character of the stories is a blunt, common soldier, who rises throiugh the ranks due to being very good at it, but causing conflict amongst the Gentlemen in high positions due to his forthright and honest responses to their incompetence and dishonesty.
It's a lot better than my decription suggests, a lot of humour, believable adventures and a fine cast of actors, including John Tams, who has an excellent musical track record. Mrs.Duck also speaks highly of Sean Bean in long boots and tight trousers, but that is her foible!
Quack!