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

[Carol]

Alla wrote:
>,snip>
> I mean with Snape it is easy for me, he simply was not redeemed completely to me, but let's imagine the scenario, hypothetical one, fanfiction one where everything happens the same, Snape's personality remains the same, he does not get new friends, he is not a joy to be around, etc. The only difference is that after "look at me" and before he dies Snape tells Harry that "I was wrong Potter, you are not your father".
> 
> That's it, the only difference, but to me it will make TONS of difference, that to me will be redemption story, period, you know and very well crafted too? <snip>

Carol responds:
Now I finally understand why you don't find Snape's redemption complete or satisfactory. I'm not sure that I agree; I think that looking into Harry's eyes implies that he sees Lily in Harry and that he knows that Harry is not his father. To me, it doesn't need to be stated, and it would make the moment less poignant, not to mention less realistic since Snape is dying, to include those words. But at least I see what you're saying and understand what you thought was missing.

But I don't agree that Snape's failure to say those words, which perhaps (like Aunt Petunia unable to say "I'm sorry" before she left Harry forever), he just couldn't bring himself to say, should mean an eternity of punishment for hating Harry. We can't help our feelings, after all, and I think that Snape suffered enough on earth through bitterness and friendlessness (along with unbearable remorse) that he doesn't need more punishment in the afterlife. In fact, I think it would be appropriate for Lily and James to come forward and thank him. All his bitterness and resentment would fall away--especially if James said "I'm sorry" first.

I like happy endings, including in this case "happily ever after" taken literally. :-)

Carol, who can't imagine petty vindictiveness continued into the afterlife or punishments for minor infractions when major ones are forgiven