I hope I am doing this correctly!

I am hoping to reply to Marcus and boccaccio2000g.

I have been reading the epic tale Boccaccio2000 has been writing and I have been enjoying it though have not yet given it a review. It's excellent quality writing and the story is compelling despite my general lack of interest in Asian history/culture of that time. LOL!

As a woman, I will add that having characters suffer violence isn't necessarily a quality of hate. In my own fantasies, I endure a great many trials as a way perhaps to feel that I'm up to any challenge? That I am strong, worthy of respect, even by my adversary. This is a common and very compelling theme and it is something that seems to sprout even from childhood. If you recall your own childhood games, or observe children playing, they are always facing adversity and overcoming it. It seems to be a way of preparing to face real challenges but underneath that, we all do want to feel that we are not powerless, that we will stand up for our own rights and our convictions. It is a theme to be found everywhere.

There is actually a very positive statement about the heroines resisting, enduring and never giving in (okay, some sometimes they do *grin*) ... it means they are strong and don't immediately cave in to demands of 'kneel bitch'. I think strong women are easily admired in such settings, especially since generally the women are in control of the men anyway. *grin* Interesting duality here. Strong women can be admired by men only if men truly have the upper hand? *wink*

I agree with Marcus concerning the atrocities that Man is capable of. While the U.S. began with the 'rule of law' premise, that is slowly being eroded and soon there will be little standing between us and total chaos where violence could very well become the accepted norm. It's well on its way already.

Thanks for a great topic!

Pooka