Redemption of Anakin and other redemption stories (moved from Main)

[kempermentor]

> Alla:
> Well, seems that we both love Zuco's redemption. Would it be fair to say then that you see redemption as character while remaining his core, at the same time changing in how he looks at the world, and people around him? I mean, I agree that Zuco changes significantly, becomes more open more, I don't know, joyful, understands what he really wants in life, etc and at the same time remains loyal as he always was and wanting to lead his nation, etc.
> 
> But is it the only type of redemption that works for you? I mean, Zuco is a teenager after all, yes he is a teenager in the show where kids have adults responsibilities, but what I am trying to say is that it must at least a little easier for him to realize that his father is a murderous maniac and pursue his own needs in the world?
> 
> It must be much harder to change completely for the adult like Snape?
> 
> Oh, but he came to Dumbledore when he was not that much older than Zuco. Hm, I seem to be doing arguing with myself part quite well, lol.


Kemper now:
Speaking for myself, the difference I see between Zuko and Snape is how they came to be good.  Zuko's redemption is more thoughtful, more internal.  Zuko is not guilted into good, he wrestles with it based on what he learns from his uncle and what he's been taught by his dad.  Snape feels like a d-bag for putting Lily at risk and wants to save her not because he wants to be good but because he has the hawts for her. Seeking freedom from guilt is not the same as striving for deliverance from sin which is my definition of redemption.  

Going back to Anakin.  I like Snape more mostly because he didn't murder a temple of younglings.  Knowing that back story (screw you Lucas) makes it difficult to cheer the Anakin/Vader in Return of the Jedi.  Like Snape, he didn't turn to good because of thoughtful reflection (even though it seems that way), he turns 'good' because the Emperor was going to kill his son.  I know 'what if' situations are bullshit, but what if the Emperor let Luke live, would Vader have acted on his own to fight for good?  I sort of doubt it.  

My one knut :D

Kemper