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I agree latepaul: there were times when there was a definite feeling of cartoon violence about what was happening, because of the light-hearted way it was treated. And then other times when the book was very dark indeed.
These four supposed heroes were really a gang of thugs out looking for trouble, and usually finding it. Their attitude towards women and the rights of others was utterly appalling. I found Porthos the most offensive of all, yet it would seem we were to find him a loveable rogue.
As for Milady, I quite agree with Catlady - she wouldn't have flinched. She was of course painted as the supreme villain, but it's interesting to consider what made her that way.
- Why was she in a nunnery in her youth? Clearly not by choice.
- She was branded by the executioner for leading his brother astray. How about a bit of personal responsibility for his actions by the brother instead of blaming the girl, which is all she was.
- She was hanged by her husband and left for dead, not because of anything she did, but because of the brand.
- She was double-crossed and treated disgustingly by D'Artagnan, our supposed chivalric young hero.
Who can blame her for wanting her revenge upon all men?
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