Grantaire, the Cynical Revolutionary

“The Skeptic: Meet the Cynical Revolutionary with a Heart of Contradictions!”

• Alias: None
• Gender: Male
• Race: Human
• Occupation: Artist, Poet
• Religion: Unknown
• Allies: Enjolras, Les Amis de l’ABC (Friends of the ABC)
• Enemies: The oppressive government, law enforcement
• Abode/Base of Operations: Paris, France
• Nationality: French
• Languages: French
• Alignment: Chaotic Neutral
• Affiliation(s): Les Amis de l’ABC, a group of revolutionary students
• Significant others: None specified in the novel

All those words- rights of the people, rights of man, humanity, civilization, religion, progress- are very near meaningless to Grantaire. He smiled at them. Skepticism, that dry rot of the intellect, has left not one entire idea in his mind. He lives in irony. This is his one axiom: The one certainly is a full glass. He ridicules all dedication under all circumstances..

Grantaire is a complex character in Victor Hugo’s novel “Les Misérables.” He is a man of contradictions, embodying both cynicism and idealism. With a perpetual glass in hand and a sharp tongue, he exudes a sense of detachment from the world around him. Yet, beneath his nonchalant exterior, there lies a restless spirit yearning for something greater.

Grantaire’s cynicism stems from his disillusionment with society and the injustices he witnesses. He sees the flaws and hypocrisies in the world, and his biting sarcasm becomes his armor against the pain and disappointment. He finds solace in his intoxication, using it to numb the harsh realities of life.

Despite his outward indifference, Grantaire is inexplicably drawn to the ideals of the revolution. He finds himself in the company of passionate revolutionaries who fight for justice and equality. While his commitment wavers, he can’t help but be inspired by their unwavering dedication and fervor.

Deep down, Grantaire longs for a purpose greater than himself. He yearns for a cause to believe in, a reason to fight. He is torn between his skepticism and the burning desire to make a difference. He seeks meaning and belonging among his fellow revolutionaries, even if he struggles to fully embrace their cause.

Grantaire’s journey is one of internal conflict. He grapples with his own beliefs, constantly questioning his motivations and the true nature of his convictions. As he navigates the tumultuous world of revolution, he must confront his doubts and reconcile his pessimism with the fire of passion that flickers within him.

In the end, Grantaire’s story is a poignant exploration of the human struggle for purpose and identity. He represents the complexities of the human spirit, the battle between hope and despair, and the constant search for meaning in a world filled with contradictions.

Grantaire, the Cynical Revolutionary

Medium humanoid (human), Chaotic Neutral alignment

Armor Class: 15 (studded leather) Hit Points: 75 (10d8 + 30) Speed: 30 ft.

STR	DEX	CON	INT	WIS	CHA
11	16	14	12	10	18

Saving Throws: Dex +5, Cha +7 Skills: Persuasion +7, Insight +3 Senses: Passive Perception 10 Languages: Common, French Challenge: 6 (2,300 XP)

Actions

• Rapier. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) piercing damage.
• Flintlock Pistol. Ranged Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, range 30/90 ft., one target. Hit: 9 (1d10 + 3) piercing damage.

Legendary Actions Grantaire can take 2 legendary actions, choosing from the options below. Only one legendary action option can be used at a time and only at the end of another creature’s turn. Grantaire regains spent legendary actions at the start of his turn.

• Cynical Comment. Grantaire makes a sarcastic remark, forcing one creature within 30 feet of him to make a Wisdom saving throw (DC 15) or be charmed until the end of Grantaire’s next turn.
• Revolutionary Inspiration (Costs 2 Actions). Grantaire sings a stirring revolutionary song, inspiring his allies. Each ally within 30 feet of Grantaire gains temporary hit points equal to 1d8 + his Charisma modifier.

Reactions

• Witty Retort. When a creature misses Grantaire with a melee attack, he can use his reaction to make a rapier attack against that creature.

Equipment

• Studded Leather Armor, Rapier, Flintlock Pistol, Bullets (20)
• Wine Flask
• Tattered Revolutionary Flag (Treat as a regular flag or banner)
• A book of poetry and literature

Magic Items

• Amulet of Inspiring Words. This amulet allows Grantaire to cast the spell Heroism once per day.

Character Background Grantaire is a cynical and often drunken member of the revolutionaries’ group. He uses his sharp tongue and biting wit to mask his deep empathy and loyalty to the cause. Though he often appears disinterested and apathetic, his presence in the group is valuable as he has an uncanny ability to inspire others and provide biting commentary on societal norms. He fights for a world where freedom and equality reign, even if he doubts its possibility. Grantaire’s proficiency with a flintlock pistol allows him to deliver a deadly shot from a distance, adding to his effectiveness on the battlefield.

Plot Hooks

• The Jaded Revolutionary: Grantaire is a disillusioned revolutionary who has grown weary of the cause he once fought for. He questions the effectiveness and motives of the movement, challenging the players to examine their own beliefs and motivations. Through philosophical debates and internal conflicts, Grantaire prompts the group to question the true nature of revolution and the sacrifices it demands.
• The Drunken Oracle: Despite his usual state of inebriation, Grantaire possesses an uncanny ability to see glimpses of the future or uncover hidden truths. When under the influence, he becomes an accidental oracle, providing cryptic yet insightful guidance to the players. They can seek his wisdom during critical moments, relying on his intoxicated insights to make important decisions or solve complex puzzles.
• The Unrequited Love: Grantaire carries a deep and unrequited love for a fellow revolutionary or a prominent figure within the group. His heartache adds a layer of emotional depth and vulnerability to his character. As players get to know Grantaire, they may witness his internal struggles, moments of introspection, and occasional acts of self-sacrifice driven by his unrequited affection.
• The Voice of the Common People: Among the common folk, Grantaire is revered as a champion of their struggles and aspirations. His words and actions have inspired countless individuals, and players may encounter grateful townsfolk who have been positively influenced by his advocacy. These encounters can lead to valuable resources, information, or even assistance in the players’ quests, as the people rally behind Grantaire’s cause.
• The Artistic Provocateur: Grantaire’s artistic talents go beyond his love for poetry and music. He is a skilled creator of provocative artwork and graffiti that challenges societal norms and sparks controversy. Players may find themselves involved in daring heists or covert operations to display Grantaire’s subversive art in high-profile locations, creating a ripple effect that challenges the status quo and disrupts those in power.
• The Reluctant Hero: Grantaire is a reluctant hero, constantly torn between his skepticism and the undeniable impact his actions have on the group’s success. Players must navigate the delicate task of convincing Grantaire to embrace his role as a hero. As they do so, they witness the transformation of a reluctant cynic into a reluctant savior, showcasing the potential for growth and personal evolution even in the face of doubt.
• The Master of Disguise: Grantaire possesses remarkable skills of disguise, allowing him to assume different personas with ease. He becomes an invaluable asset for the group when infiltrating enemy strongholds or gathering information unnoticed. Players can engage in thrilling espionage missions, relying on Grantaire’s ability to adopt convincing disguises to deceive their enemies, gather vital intelligence, and execute covert operations.
• The Intellectual Provocateur: Grantaire’s sharp intellect and biting wit make him an expert at manipulating conversations and debates. He can guide players through complex negotiations, using his skills to gain the upper hand, sway influential figures to their cause, or provoke thought-provoking discussions. Grantaire’s ability to instigate diplomatic crises or challenge the status quo can create both allies and adversaries, shaping the path the players choose to take.
• The Hidden Saboteur: Grantaire possesses a unique set of skills for sabotage and subterfuge. Players may find themselves involved in covert operations, working alongside Grantaire to disrupt enemy plans, sabotage infrastructure, or destabilize oppressive regimes. Grantaire’s expertise in stealth and his understanding of the underbelly of power make him a key asset in these dangerous missions.
• The Redemption Seeker: Grantaire carries the weight of past failures or perceived betrayals, seeking redemption for his actions. Players can delve into his troubled past, uncovering secrets and hidden motivations that drive his relentless pursuit of absolution. This quest for redemption takes Grantaire on a journey of personal growth, allowing players to witness the transformation of a flawed individual into a character driven by a deep desire for forgiveness and a chance to make amends.

Currently in the World

Grantaire is a man of average height, with disheveled brown hair and a scruffy beard. His eyes, once bright and full of life, now carry a weary and disillusioned look. He often wears worn-out clothing, opting for a faded red waistcoat and a loosely tied cravat. His posture is relaxed yet somewhat slouched, reflecting a sense of indifference.

Currently, Grantaire can be found in a dimly lit corner of a bustling tavern. The air is thick with the scent of alcohol and the sound of raucous laughter fills the room. He sits at a table strewn with empty bottles and crumpled paper, his attention focused on a sketchbook in front of him. The sketches depict scenes of despair, rebellion, and the struggles of the common people.

Despite the lively atmosphere around him, Grantaire’s mood is melancholic. There is a sense of resignation in his eyes, as if he has lost faith in the world. His shoulders sag with the weight of disillusionment, yet there is a hint of determination in his gaze. It is as if he is searching for something, a glimmer of hope amidst the chaos, even though he knows it may be elusive.

Surrounded by the noise and chatter of the tavern, Grantaire remains somewhat detached, observing the world with a mix of cynicism and longing. His presence exudes a certain air of rebellion, a silent protest against the injustices he has witnessed. He may engage in sporadic conversations with fellow patrons, but his thoughts often wander back to the sketches before him, capturing the essence of his disillusionment and longing for a better world.