Eugène Grandet is a fictional character from the novel "Eugénie Grandet," written by French author Honoré de Balzac in 1833. He is portrayed as a wealthy and miserly wine merchant living in the small town of Saumur, France. His character embodies the themes of greed and social status, reflecting the societal values of the time. Grandet's obsession with wealth leads to the emotional and financial manipulation of his family, particularly his daughter, Eugénie. The story explores the impact of his avarice on their lives, highlighting the conflict between love and money in 19th-century French society.