Angry Men In Kilts
Bringing Mel Gibson's Braveheart
Into Your Campaign

Character: Robert The Bruce

By Rob Vaux
Photographs courtesy of Paramount Pictures, Inc.

Earl of Scotland (later king)

Skills: Politicking, Leadership, Horsemanship, HTH Combat

Weakness: Hampered by position

Robert the Bruce was inspired to revolt by the exploits of William Wallace, but was held back by his father and the constraints of his position. His desire to join the commoner knew no bounds, but the "higher duties" of the nobility prevented the clarity of purpose and uncompromising passion that Robert's father, the senior Robert the Bruce, has been afflicted with leprosy and hides in a tower of Edinburgh castle. His son represents him to the outside world, claiming that the elder Bruce is traveling abroad. At the urgings of his father, Robert was led to betray Wallace at the battle of Falkirk, resulting in the destruction of the Scottish army and the near-death of Wallace. In exchange, he received the endorsement of the English crown and an inside track to the Scottish throne.

Robert's actions have left him a deeply remorseful and troubled man. He regrets his betrayal of Wallace with every bone in his body and has vowed "never to be on the wrong side again." After Wallace's execution, he will continue the Scottish rebellion in the name of the martyred commoner, and eventually rule a free Scotland as King Robert I.

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