I stand corrected. It seems there many areas where we are doomed to disagree.

We appear to have fundamental differences in how we view and define the world, and I think that influences nearly everything we have discussed or will discuss.

You used the phrasedphrase "forced on you" to describe a situation where I saw only "chose to do". You allowed for a difference that I would not allow for under the circumstances.

I wasn't seeking to absolve him of blame ether, please do not put interpretations I never meant.

I wrote "reasons which seem as if they are meant to absolve him of blame". Once words have been shared with others, they are interpreted by others. That is how human communication works. One can only hope that the words are taken as they were intended. It's an unfortunate by-product of our lack of telepathy.

Just as I feetfeel you have repeatedly misinterpreted my meaning of "monster", you feel I have misinterpreted yours explanation of why Lucius might acted the way he does by reading them as a defence of his behaviour.

You and I have also different definitions of "evil", it seems. And we also seem to have different interpretations of what crosses the line from "understandable" to "reprehensible".

I believe Lucius Malfoy behaved reprehensibly and evilly.
You seem to believe – if I am interpreting your words correctly – believe there are valid, though deplorable, reasons for his behaviour and choices.
One of the central tenets of this essay was that I believe Malfoy's choices and behaviour cannont be validated for any reason.

Because we view the world and the nature of right and wrong – and even the language we speak – so differently, I think it unlikely we'll ever reach an accord on this subject.

If nothing else, I hope that I gave you food for thought. Your comments certainly did that for me. Again, thanks for sharing your views.