"Only recently have I begun to reflect on how passive philosophers and men of action are both necessary to balance one another1. Perhaps I'm becoming philosophical1 myself." He shakes his head. "I'm sure the same is true of establishing republics. Was that ever something you were interested in, steering the republic once it came to pass? Or were you happy to bring it about, and leave the politics to others?" He's delicately avoiding the lack of choice Enjolras has in the matter, now that he's here. Claudius also had very little choice but to reconsider his opinions on rulership, though at least he isn't dead.
(Wait, why would Claudius be under the impression that Enjolras died in this revolt? Only Grantaire showed up covered in blood, yes? No -- it's gone now. Claudius lost whatever memory was coming back.)
1 Cf. Taoism 101 with Lan Wangji, the Yin-Yang Principle. 2 Actually he's always on the verge of philosophy and he's always self-deprecating about it. It's a specific family trait he shares with his nephew.
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(Wait, why would Claudius be under the impression that Enjolras died in this revolt? Only Grantaire showed up covered in blood, yes? No -- it's gone now. Claudius lost whatever memory was coming back.)
1 Cf. Taoism 101 with Lan Wangji, the Yin-Yang Principle.
2 Actually he's always on the verge of philosophy and he's always self-deprecating about it. It's a specific family trait he shares with his nephew.