From WilloftheWisp:

Christine made the choice that was best for her. Raoul clearly loves her and isn't as much a "fop" as he is accused of being. He's brave, appreciates her musical talent, and would die for her (as cited in the book and the musical). Most people say he's too safe and prefer the Phantom's eroticism. But hey, how do they know what Raoul's like in private? You know once he and Christine resumed as normal a life as they could have, he probably seduced her many a time, so leave Raoul alone and let him be happy with the woman whose scarf he rescued all those years ago.

From Beffers:

C'mon - who would wanna jump a skeleton? I mean, c'mon people! Raoul is waaaaay better than Erik. I mean, who would wanna stay with a psychopath? At least Christine won't have to worry about going out in public with Raoul. With Erik, that would be different. Erik probably wouldn't even wanna go anywhere with her in the first place. What kind of marriage would that be? It wouldn't be. Definitely Raoul!

From Sydney:

I KNOW I've already posted but I just HAVE to say I agree with Zosha. Book, totally nasty, Raoul, adorably,terribly romantic, Play can't tell SOME of us haven't seen the play, Movie, Christine can HAVE Raoul (Although I would'nt mind him) The phantom although a man who is insane at least he LOOKS good(Synchronized MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM Gerry for dinner) After reading the book, All I could see was some old pervert with hands that reek like death who digs up people's graves to get a violin that Christines Dad was buried with and a man who can drive a woman to suicide ( of course, I felt sorry for him in the end. I still feel Christine made the right choice (although I would have taken my chances with the movie Erik)

From Alannah:

Christine and Raoul love each other purely and equally. While Erik loved Christine passionately but not for who she is and Christine loved Erik like a crush etc.

From Stephanie:

Duh, Raoul, but only a la Steve Barton. Does anyone really WANT to live with a raging homicidal psycopath, no matter how much he likes you? That's just weird. And should musical geniuses spend that much time together? I can just see it...."I sing better than you!" "But I write my own music, na na na nah!!!" Raoul would be all..."Christine, sing that aria again, you're so pretty, would you like a chocolate?" Or worse. Christine "Erik, your face is pussing again, let me clean it..." Erik "STOP PICKING AT IT!! OUCH!!! DEVIL WOMAN!!!" Christine *grossed out pout* Christine "There's an angry mob at the door, honey." Erik "Tell them we don't want any." Christine "You touch that organ more than you touch me." Erik "Sorry, I filled my "touching you" quota in the movie."

From Zosha:

The choice I would make between Raoul and Erik as Christine is different depending on whether it is the book, musical, or movie. For (Leroux's) book: I'm all for Raoul in this version. Leroux's description of Erik is basically a skull with no nose whatsoever and yellow skin (as well as his bony hands) and a mask covering his entire face. He is nearly completly insane, and has already killed maybe even countless other people in Persia excluding those killed in the Paris Opera House. Um, do you want to wake up to a decaying-looking (or Micheal Jackson looking) man who has a obsession with you that could drive him to kill. Er, not me. Stage Version: I'm fifty/fifty, at least, only half of his face is covered. And there's no mention of Persia or how he's tortured people. And we can actually hear his voice^^ But, he still did kill Buquet and drop a chandelier on people. Movie Version: HA! I'll take all my chances the the sexy Gerard Butler who looks like he got a super bad sunburn on one side of his face. Mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm.....Gerry for dinner. Done. ^^

From Emily:

Sorry. Sorry! I know, I already posted (but can you post too many times in the name of le Vicomte? Not likely.) But I was reading through these again (I need a life) and one person (I believe her name was Cat?) said something extremely intelligent (to me)! "He had the whole attitude of 'The world owes me for my suffering, even if it's not directily responsible for it.'" Yeah, right on! I liked that! However, that's not what I'm here to type about. She also mentioned how there were a lot of villians like that; Darth Vader, Magneto. Now, the previous struck me mostly because I am doing as all good nerds do and am on a major Star Wars kick right now. As for the later, about the only thing I know about Magneto is that Ian McKellen played him in the movie, wich is awsome. So, let us endevor a comparitive study (turn back now, ladies and gents, before it's too late) of Erik and Vader. Why? Because I have way too much time on my hands. To begin; they both where black. They're both very smart. They're prodegies of some kind or another. They both stalk people (though one's stalking the woman he loves and the other's stalking his son, but, um, yeah.....) They're both obsessive. Unhealthely so. They're both disfigured (birth and lava.) They both kill people by strangulation. A lot. Quite a lot. And, um....(hold on, thought process going on......) They're both overly dramatic. They both end up dying AFTER their mask is off. They both don't have happy endings (well, I guess Vader had the whole redemption thing when he tosses the Emperor into the reactor thingy ma bob, but other wise, getting your hand chopped off by your son and then dying constitutes a sucky ending for me.) More importantly, they both don't have happy endings with the women they love/obsess over. (According to some seriously dissalussioned fic authores) they both have kids. They both wear gloves (okay, I could go on to say they both wear shoes, but that's pathetic.) They both have neat swishy capes. They both extract terrible revenge. And, um, yup, that's all I can think of. Why did I need to write this? It's not even directly about Raoul in anyway. Honestly, I really don't know. All I can tell you is I'm a theater nerd, a book worm, and a band geek, so maybe that explains it. I guess what I'm really trying to say is this: Would you want Christine ending up with Darth Vader in the end? Cause I sure know I wouldn't!

From Sarah:

Don't get me wrong. I love Erik and at the end of the stage performance or the movie I always wish that Christine would have chose him. But honestly, if she did, I would think she was not sane. His behavior is that of a crazed stalker with no regard for human life, despite his genius, talent, and sensuality. He was completely dishonest with her, making her believe he was a holy being sent from her Father. Although her compassion gave him hope, it would not be enough to completely heal all his inner wounds that have developed over years and years. Raoul did not do anything crazy to win Christine's love. They were best friends from childhood and when they met again, he gave his heart, soul, and almost his life for her. Though in my heart I cheer for Erik, I understand and agree with Christine's decision to choose Raoul.

From Edel Quinn:

There is no doubt in my mind that Christine made the correct decision. I am sorry Erik fans, but he is a raving murderous lunatis while Raoul is sweet, charming, loving, so so handsome and doesn't care that Christine had no money or status which was in does days a very big deal. He risked his life several times over for her. Not forgetting as he felt the rope around his neck drain the life out of him could still only think of her safety. He is truly a knight in shining armour. Completely and utterly adorable.

From Viola:

Erik was a teacher for Christine, he seemed for her some strange, mystical master. And Raoul was her friend, she knew everything about him, she didn't fear him. She felt herself quiet with him. And she needed quiet after all the deaths, mysteries and fears.

From Sydney:

Lordy, Of course she did!!! I'M a HUGE Erik fan and I think she made the right choice. She simply did not love him the way he wanted her to. At first I was mad at Christine for leaving him like that, but as she and Raoul are rowing away you see how happy she is with Raoul and how much they love each other. Besides all you Erik defenders (I KNOW you're here!) it just means more Erik for us!!

From Chandra:

Christine made the right choice. Reasons: (based on novel and 2004 film) * She loves Raoul - she recognizes him the first time she sees him, and recalls that they were sweethearts. * Raoul loves her - he is gentle, sweet, dashing, and always an 18th century gentleman. He risks his life again and again to save Christine. * Forget the money - he was a normal person (not shallow, in my humble opinion) - and Christine desperately needs a normal life. Growing up backstage must have been a claustrophobic environment. The Phantom showed her a whole new world of music and darkness, and it was a release for her - but it wasn't healthy. Raoul takes her out into the sunlight, and urges her not to wallow in fear and darkness. He offers unconditional love, protection and support, and I am a young woman who realizes that these are the things that last! True, lasting love (and yes, passion) does not come from mindless desire, lust or yearning but respect, friendship and devotion to another person's happiness, and Raoul and Christine had all of those things. * The Phantom was unstable - he used Christine to end his solitude. He wanted to possess her, to have her with him forever - and she never expressed any desire for any of that. When you think about it, it was ultimately about what he wanted - even though he wanted to make her happy, he really didn't know how. Not to mention he murders people.(and I really love the Phantom, too - he's my favorite character!) End result: Raoul. Christine made the right choice - she knew what she wanted, and got it. I truly believe that, although she would never forget her teacher, her Angel, she would also never forget the Phantom, the Opera Ghost. I also believe she and Raoul would be happy together. Why can't the fans (or Phans) accept her choice and be happy for her?

From Callum Stewart:

Everything you say about Erik is true, but Christine did not love him. She loved Raoul. We may look back and say what we might have done, but she followed her heart and chose Raoul. Besides, Erik has a living death's head atop his shoulders - Christine is a young girl, not that she is shallow, but looks do mean something. She loved Raoul, not Erik.

From Holly:

He loved Christine with all his heart and he deserved to live a normal life as he was just like everyone else, 'normal'. I don't think anyone could have loved Christine more than him, even Erik whose character I adored.

From Robin:

Well...first of all...Raoul is not a homocidal psychopath...I cannot say the same about Erik, sadly. Think of Erik with kids...not a pretty picture right? I know! Raoul is more of the guy to spend the rest of your life with and not fear for your life. Erik is that guy who you feel sorry for...yet would do much better in a straight jacket in a little padded room....

From Jen:

I respectfully disagree with many of the individuals who have said that Erik is the love of Christine's life. The phantom did leave with something...he left with knowing compassion, kindness, and that he was not alone. Erik decieved Christine in thinking that he was her father...shame on him...I don't care how hard your life is. Don't ruin someone else's because yours sucks. Raoul on the other hand understands that Christine loves Erik as a father figure...and he respects that. However, Christine is nothing but a symbol of triumph against those who made his life miserable. He finally has one of their own! Let Erik know compassion...but Christine and Raoul know life and love without constantly worrying about Erik...she had love for each man...just differently...she loved Erik because he reminded her of her father...and Raoul...because he was her lover...the love of her life...

From Abigail:

Raoul was sweet and innocent!!!!!

From Nellie:

Raoul isn't my personal choice, but let's see, he's 1. Financially secure 2. Good looking 3. Ready to protect Christine 4. Doesn't have homicidal tendencies 5. Appreciates the fine arts (opera) without screwing up the performance 6. Does not take advantage of the vulnerability of a grieving young girl 7. Is not a kidnapper 8. Is not abusive/manipulative 9. Is not like 30 years older than his lover 10. Can swordfight properly

From Beki:

I think that Christine chose Raoul for these reasons: 1 - She needed stability. 2 - Raoul wasn't murderous. 3 - I do think that she truly loved Raoul, whereas she pitied the Phantom. 4 - Raoul wasn't a a)Murderer b)lunatic c)obsessive-compulsive d)just plain wacked-out kinda guy 5-Raoul was SO hotter than the phantom, plus he was a)gentlemanly b)so stinkin sweet c)willing to die for her, when the Phantom was only willing to keep her captive. And other reasons.

From Vanessa:

I love Erik, and so do many other people, thus they say that they would've chosen Erik. Why? Because we've come to understand him, we're fond of him and we have a connection with him also mainly because he's the star of the show and what would The Phantom of the Opera be with the Phantom? But let's put ourselves in Christine's shoes or imagine ourselves in that situation. Here I state the reasons why Raoul should've been the better choice. Raoul's rich, he's handsome, he kind and a real gentleman, just about everything a girl would want in a man. Erik, though he's hideously deformed and lives in a basement, is mainly kind and gentlemanly only to Christine, though generous as well (as stated in the book, leaving good tips and all). Erik insisted that Christine stays with him for the rest of her days, but she must not want to stay beneath the Opera House in the darkness for the rest of her life, thus I think Raoul would have given her a better life. Sure Erik is so so so much smarter than Raoul, he's a genius with many talents, but what good is his brain if he can't use it in the real world because of his looks? Next, Christine, though had some strong feeling for Erik, loved Raoul. And the most important factor: Erik killed people and threatened the life of others, Raoul didn't. So although, from where I'm standing as a phan, I would choose Erik. But if I were in this situation, I would chose the good man, Raoul.

From Victoria Rose:

There are a few points that I did not see listed on either the Raoul or Erik lovers sections. Christine was only 16 years old. She knew nothing of adult love. She was mesmerized by Erik and yes, somewhat in love with him. How much of what she felt for him was based on illusion? What experience did she have to base her decision on? Both her mother and father died and left her alone. Erik kills people in the name of love. Raoul wants to protect her and keep her safe. What does a 16 year old who faced the loss of both parents before she was 8 need? Security, love and peace. Erik offers a perverted kind of love and seduction that leads to...what? What exactly does he mean when he says (in the musical) "That fate, which condemns me to wallow in blood, has also denied me the joys of the flesh." She would never learn or experience a real, normal relationship with Erik. Life with Raoul may have been quiet, but honestly, after all the murdering and excitement, doesn't 'quiet' sound pretty good? Another thing to think about - take Erik out of the time period, bring him into the 21st century and what do you have? A psychotic, murdering stalker who wants to control everything about the woman he 'loves', which in his mind makes it all ok. There is no doubt that there is something about Erik that is hauntingly appealing to most women. Most of us have been attracted to the bad boy or the super talented but misunderstood underdog, hopefully when we were young and stupid. But we grow up and figure out what really matters, what lasts and what will bring lasting happiness. Passion that hot rarely lasts. Keep Erik in fantasy. He's much more exciting there. Men like that today, often become abusers and/or murderers of the objects of their affection. At least in Erik's case, he loved her enough to give her up. I hope perhaps some of today's stalker types learn something about love from this film. Namely, if they don't love you back, love them enough to let them go. I must say that the ending always makes me cry, whether it is the play or film version and the very end of the movie (with the rose and ring at Christine's grave) gives me goosebumps. It's very romantic and sad.

From Meara Aideen MierDonald:

The Phantom, aka Erik, was a possesive stalker-type person. While I'm sure in my heart he would have done Christine no harm, he would not have allowed her to be free. To stay with him was a sentence of pain for her. She made the right choice in Raoul, in that he loved her properly (he didn't have a life-like model of her in a wedding dress COMPLETE WITH UNDERWEAR) and would allow her to be herself. The Phantom never would have let her do that. For her happiness, this was best. She didn't leave the Phantom without anything, as she gave him back the ring and kissed him twice. He will remember that for many years to come. But she would never have been happy with Erik.

From Jen:

It is one thing to pity Erik. He is disfigured and it has cut him off from the world around him and he is shunned by all. His solace is music, and Christine's voice and love of song must have touched him as nothing else ever had. She trusted him and allowed him to tutor her. Of course he thought it was love, she was one of the very few who had ever shown him kindness and most certainly the only one who ever truly appreciated him. However, Erik perverted this compassion from Christine and he expected her to love him in return. If he had experienced real love, he would not have committed murder to advance his agenda. He knew about her "Angel of Music" and exploited it to gain her trust. His goal was to achieve his ultimate desire, the complete surrender of Christine Daae. Raoul on the other hand truly loved her. He loved to hear her sing, he loved to hear her speak and he loved to simply see her. He wanted to protect her from the evil that pursued her. He sought nothing in return but he hoped for her love. That is love. Raoul was young and foolish, but most good, decent young men start off young and foolish. Raoul's passion was tempered by respect and love. Erik's passion was fueled by his obsession with darkness and his desire to share his personal hell. Ultimately, Raoul was willing to die for her, the ultimate sacrifice. I would choose Raoul without hesitation. He is not perfect, but then again no one is. At least Raoul would not commit wanton murder in my name.

From Frenchy:

I pick Raoul over Erik for different reasons. Well, first of all, like Julie, I am French, and it might in some way influence my opinion (according to my friends, love, romantism and French go well together). I saw the movie, and started on the book. From what I got, Raoul is a dashing romantic hero, and he truly loves Christine. And his one fault is to be kinda naive. He might not be the genius that Erik is described as, but he isn't some kind of upsessed psycopath either. And in spite of what all the Erik-lovers said, Christine really did love Raoul. He was her childhood sweetheart, she has never forgotten him, he reappears into her life, and she still loves him. The phantom tries to win her back, but she says to Raoul that she is SCARED of him... does that say something??? to simplify, you wouldn't go out with a murderous psycopath, would you? And I know beauty isn't everything, but DAMN it plays a great part!!! It is alright for people to call me superficial, but at least, I am not hypocritical on top of it. Raoul is nice, he loves her, she loves him, he's handsome, and he's rich, which doesn't spoil anything. Also, what she has with him is real, not illusions like with Erik. And, Erik fans, FACE IT, she chose Raoul. Of her own free will. Well, not completely free, but... In the Why Erik section, almost everybody was bringing out that he loved her enough to let her go... Well, a good reason why she chose Raoul is because she loved him enough to spend the rest of her life with someone that repulses her. And one last thing, if Erik let her go, as mentionned by a couple of Erik fans, it's coz he knew she wouldn't be happy with him... Even him understood her choice... So, listen to dear Erik, and let Christine take her decisions for her own life, or let Gaston Leroux make them for her. Plus, would you really like to spend your life with someone that spends it hidden behind a mask?? I wouldn't, i'd like to be able to see my husband's face without flinching, thank you very much.

From Anonymous:

Uh, guys? Erik MIGHT have murdered? You say it like it's a bad thing... oh wait... IT IS!!!!!! And you are right, marry for love, marry for good. She liked Raoul, so, she went with him... And please, read the book first, and then say you would have picked the emotionless corpse over the one you call a git. I'm not exactly a Raoul fan either, but seriously, I wouldn't have gone for the book's Erik, though I do pity him.

From Taylor:

For me, there is no contest. Raoul was definitely the right choice for Christine. I mean, I'm sure Erik is a...well, I can't think of a good adjective, but not-so-horrible guy. He meant well. Maybe. But, there are some pretty substantial things that stand in his way. First of all, he kills people. You can't ignore that. He's a murderer.Second, he lives in a sewer/underground lair. What kind of life does that offer for Christine? I mean, just because she stays with him, is he gonna suddenly be able to go into public? He's still horribly disfigured. Even if Christine went out for a few hours everyday, she'd still be living underground. Third, she doesn't love him. She pities him, feels sorry for him, was taken in by his music, etc, but she doesn't love him. Now, for Raoul. He's a really, really, really nice guy. He is so the guy your mother wants you to bring home for dinner. He's enthusiastically in love with Christine (without all the killing and mind games), plus they are good friends. He's willing to die for her, and unhesitatingly throws himself into harm's way. He may be a bit foppish, but that was what men were like in that time period. They weren't expected to be musclebound, grunting masses of testosterone. You can't hold a little lack of pity/understanding for the Phantom against him considering A: Erik is messing with his girl and B: again, it was the time period. And, most importantly Christine loves him.

From Katerina:

I am in defence for Raoul because Erik is never an option for Christine. She can not base a life long love on pity for someone. She never indicates that she loves the Phantom only that she feels sorry for him.It would be unfair for her to instill in him the hopes of love from her when she was unable to meet him on that leve. Secondly the phantom was a murder, had fits of anger and selfishly through only of himself: his needs, desire and wants from Christine. What kind of a life would she have had with a madman under the Paris Opera house. Yes, Raoul was less dashing but he was commited to Christine, risking his life twice to save her, informing her that the Phantom was not her father and protecting her. Without Raoul Christine would have been lost to the Phantom forever...and with his fits of rage can we honestly say she would be safe with him? When he tired of her beauty and her voice then what? Raoul had a stronger history with Christine (from their childhood) and he always gives her a choice, never manipulating her. He loves her and offers her everything he has as a Count even though she is the chourus girl later promoted to Prima Dona. I'm sure many people in high society would have frowned upon his choice but it can from a heart with sincere love and care for Christine.

From Rhys:

We can spend all day debating the passion and the genius and naivete of the Phantom and Raoul, but it won't change the fact that the Phantom of the Opera (because of the abuse he faced early in life) has become completely psychotic! He's a danger to Christine, Raoul, and everyone else in the theatre. Crime doesn't pay!

From Julie:

Well, I have been reading lots of Phantom sites for a while and I have to say I don't really understand why so many people hate Raoul! According to me, he is more the romantic hero than Erik; I will try to explain why. First, I have to say I'm French (I hope you could understand my English), and as many French people, the Phantom of the Opera is first for me a novel, before being a musical (like Les Misérables). I read it when I was about 13 (even studied it in school) and have adored it since then. And I'm sorry to say that, but in the novel, Raoul is really dashing! He is a young fool, madly in love with Christine, and the hero the reader is compelled to identify with. We only feel sorry for the phantom, but in any case, fall in love with him; anyway, I don't know anyone who fell in love with Erik reading the book (he is kind of frightening besides), and not certainly Christine (I don't remember the exact words of Leroux but it's clear she is loving Raoul and only feel pity and perhaps a kind of tenderness for Erik). Perhaps the English translation is a little different. Well, anyway, I feel exactly the same for the characters when two years later, I heard the musical. Raoul was still for me the romantic lead. Well, I have to admit that in the musical Erik is really more attractive and I really feel sorry for him from the beginning to the end of the story; his sorrow at the end always make me cry and I wish he could find love. But it doesn't make me hate Raoul, because I find him as worthy of Christine's love than Erik. And I really believe Christine is in love with Raoul! But, it's true that when I saw the musical in London, I understood a little better Erik fans. Raoul was old, snobbish and not at all a young fool; it makes me so sad and for the first time I prefer the phantom, but it's the actor's fault and not the character's one! Anyway, I think that the musical has a little changed the spirit of the story (but I love the musical anyway!), making the phantom more lovable than Raoul, but for me, Raoul is still the best of the two, because I read the book first. And I wonder if perhaps, when you have seen the musical first, you are not reading the book differently, making Erik looking more like the musical hero than the Leroux's character. and for me is the same but in the other direction: I see Raoul in the musical like he is in the book. And, to finish, I still want to ask something: if you were Christine, would you really choose Erik instead of Raoul and the life he offers (money, love, happiness...)? Not me.

From Sarah:

First off, I want to clarify something here. I personally dislike Raoul, have had some *very interesting* fantasies about Erik, and have posted my views on the "Why Erik?" page -- in other words, I am the quintessential "phangirl." However, this is not about me -- it is about Christine and her decision. And, although Erik would be my personal choice, there is an important reason that Christine would choose Raoul. Christine had a really unstable, generally crappy life. Her father died and left her an orphan, raised in the Opera House. She had been an unknown chorus girl for years, then was mysteriously promoted to star status. All this time, she was being stalked by her "Angel." (Not like I have a problem with that, but...) Needless to say, she was very confused and a little bit messed-up and needed stability. Erik was too passionate to be completely stable. Anyone that passionate, that deep, can never be consistent in their emotions. Raoul was shallow, and that was why he was the ideal husband for Christine. Because of his shallowness, his feelings would never change for her. The deepest water is the water stirred the most by waves, while shallow water stays relatively still.

From Laura:

I definitely believe Christine made the right choice about going with Raoul. She loved Raoul. She didn't love Erik. Everytime she was with Erik she was under his illusions. But when she was with Raoul it was real. He was her childhood sweetheart who she loved very much. Plus, Christine and Raoul have their own love song where her and Erik don't because she doesn't love him. Now don't get me wrong I feel very bad for Erik in the end. I almost like to think that he finds someone. And if Christine truly did love Erik than i would say go for it. But that is not the case. She loves Raoul. Christine goes off with Raoul because she loves him. She could have stayed with Erik if she wanted but she didn't because she loves Raoul. She felt pity and appreciation for Erik, but not love. It was so obvious that she loved Raoul. There was no part in the story where it even looked like she loved Erik. She was more afraid of him than she wanted to be with him. Everyone needs to realise that she made her choice from her heart and it wasn't Erik.

From Liz:

She saw what the Phantom really was, and what he did to make her choose between him and Raoul was horrible. I would have done the same thing.

From Emily:

Why I would have chosen Raoul (some reasons shallow, some reasons sensible) 1. He doesn't kill people 2. He doesn't lock himself in his room composing music that he eventually takes to his grave for unhealthy periods of time 3. His temper isn't as bad 4. He's younger (isn't Erik, like, fifty something? He has to be pretty old, considering he dies in the end) 5. He isn't physically deformed 6. He doesn't moan and wail and drag himself around at my feet (though Raoul does have the tendency to cry a lot) 7. He doesn't live underground 8. He doesn't abduct me against my will 9. He doesn't decieve me into thinking he's an angel 10. He doesn't dig up my father's grave to play a violin (honestly, that one seriously creeps me out) 11. He doesn't stalk me (generally) 12. He doesn't make people think they've become toads (albeit, Carlotta was asking for it) 13. He doesn't drive Opera House Managers crazy (though everyone thought he was) 14. He doesn't lock people I love into torture chambers 15. He doesn't threaten to blow up Opera Houses 16. He doesn't force me to wear a plain gold ring OR ELSE! [Insert Maniacal Laughter Here] 17. He swam out into the sea to get my scarf (really, that's just cute) 18. He's cute 19. We shared a lot of childhood memories 20. My father liked him (always a good sign) 21. He's cute 22. He always begs his brother to take him to the Paris Opera so he can see me 23. Did I mention he was cute? 24. Erik nearly kills him by locking him in the Communist Cellar (poor thing!) 25. He looks cute as a navy officer 26. He looks cute no matter what! 27. Seriously, did I forget to mention that he's cute? 28. He gets such a bad rap all the time. 29. He loves me 30. Dang it, he's just so cute! And there you have it. Thirty very plausable reasons why anyone in there right minds would choos ickle little Raoul de Chagny over The Phantom of the Opera

From Colleen:

As much as we phangirls squee over him, we must admit that Erik is not the best choice for a mate. Let's see: Murderer. Check. Raving lunatic. Check. Abusive. Check. Malformed face. Check. Stalking abilities. Check. Torture chambers. Check. Shunned loner. Check. Feral rage. Check. Aside from the fact that Erik is a dangerous and unpredictable man, the romance between Christine and Erik is not based on a lot. He loved her for her voice and the innocence that allowed her to trust him without knowing what he looked like. She was attracted to him because, for the first time in her sheltered life, she was experiencing interaction with someone who was mysteriously thrilling and dangerous. And besides, Raoul was genuinely a decent guy that cared for Christine. He may have been a bit foppish, but he definitely doesn't deserve the bashing he receives from phangirls.

From Erin:

I'm writing (again) to say that I wouldn't have chosen either. Now, keep in mind I'm talking about the musical here, not the book. However, before I go into detail why, I'd like to state that anyone who thought that Christine did not love the phantom needs to go and watch the play again. She loved BOTH men, that was plain to see. Now, the reasons that she shouldn't have gone with Erik are simple...his love for her was dangerous. although he had been abused, shunned by society, which probably drove him to madness, he was still mad, plain and simple. I think Christine knew that although she loved him, he was bad for her. Now Christine also loved Raoul, you see, which makes this a LOVE TRIANGLE. (meaning she loved both and was caught in the middle) I don't think Raoul was that great of a choice, either. I mean, could she ever really completely absolve the phantom from her head? especially with Raoul, a constant reminder of the events that happened at the opera house. Although (as I already stated) I wouldn't have picked either, I'll explain why I think Christine did choose Raoul. I think that she loved Raoul too, and knew she'd be happier with him. she'd be free to do as she pleased, and not be locked away in a dank dungeon. She also knew that, while it was the cruelty of the world that drove the phantom mad, he was still mad, which made him dangerous to be around. For the record, I also think that she kissed the phantom because she truly did want to show him that he was not alone in the world, and not for the purpose of freeing raoul. (of course she wanted him free, but I don't think that's what the phantom kiss was about.)

From Travis:

I think Christine made the right choice, even though I must say I am one of those rare people who believe Christine was not all together a good person to begin with. After all she did use the Phantom in a way for her singing, even if she did confuse him for her Angel of Music, and in a sense almost teased him while she never fully intended to be with him. Honestly though it is apparent Christine is in love with Raoul, even in the novel, so to me it never seemed she ever loved Erik in the way she loved Raoul. I think her love for Erik was more based on pity and respect for bringing back the passion she had to music. That is just my opinion.

From Mikell:

Listen, as cool as Erik is (aside from the psychotic murderer thing), what does he have to offer her besides love? If Christine had stayed with the Phantom, many unhappy things would have occured. Assuming the angry mob in the end doesn't come, she would have wanted out. She wouldn't be able to last in the Phantom's cellar, she loved the world and would have wanted the light of life (those two can be switched). And assuming the mob does come, the Phantom's dead, and she spends the rest of her life alone and unhappy. She needed Raoul. He was the only love that would have let her live.

From Laura:

I believe that Christine made the right choice because she truly loved Raoul. She didn't love the Phantom. Plus the Phantom was willing to kill or do anything just to get her. Do you really want to be around a psycho like that for the rest of your life? I did feel bad for the Phantom in the end since he was all alone, but there was more between Christine and Raoul. She chose from her heart who she wanted to be with and her choice was Raoul not the Phantom. Plus it's not like he was a bad choice. Raoul was a very sweet, courageous, handsome man. I would have made the same choice. Everyone should get over wanting to have Christine and Erik together because it's over and done with. She chose someone she wanted and that someone was RAOUL!!!!!

From Jake G.:

I know I said a reason why she should stay with Erik, but I genuinely think that she made the right choice. She truly loved raoul, and would have lived a life of misery with Erik.

From Elizabeth:

I'm not doing this because I hate Erik, I probably would pick Erik myself, but I feel bad for Raoul. I mean, have any of you even given him a chance,instead of saying immediately 'he's a pansy little fop who stole Christine from Erik'? This was how they lived back then, and it was considered the norm for society to mock and inquire about those with disfigurements. I know we all would have chosn Erik because of how we were brought up today, to be more liberal, but they didnt have womens rights back then, and so Christine may well have loved Raoul, and I'm sure some of you have never looked at it that way.

From Cat:

Raoul! There was nothing wrong with Raoul, unlike, hmm, Erik. Erik was VERY selfish, childish, and unstable...he nearly drove Christine mad-who is WAY too young for him-before letting her go ("Marry me, Christine, and then stab yourself in your wedding gown, watch me TORTURE a young boy and nearly kill the only man who has had it in his heart to be decent to me (the Persian), all, of course, so that I can get what I want".) He had the whole attitude of 'the world owes me, whether or not they're responsible for my suffering'...funny, I know a few villians like that; Darth Vader, Magneto, ect. He used his genius for morbid pleasures and terrors, and, because of his unfortunate childhood, he was FAR too gone to have a healthy relationship with someone. His love was obssessive, dependent, and sick. Raoul, I think, was quiet brave for going after her and very patient for putting up with all the crap they (Christine and Erik) put him through. Pretty impressive for a guy who was supposedly, what? 19? Go Raoul!

From Maria:

I would have stayed with Erik because I'm in love with him. But you shoudn't forget that though Christine loved Erik, her passion for Raoul was stronger. And her choice had nothing to do with Erik's face. She just simply loved Raoul more than she loved Erik.

From Susann:

There is one thing I have to give Raoul credit for. In Forsyth's "The Phantom of Manhattan" it is said that Raoul is not able to produce children on his own. Although Christine is pregnant from Eric (when, the hell, had they had the chance to unite?!) he "married her, giving her his name, his title and a wedding band. And for twelve years he has given to the son all the love a real father could ever give." Every other aristocrat would have felt dishonoured and sent Christine to devil. In my view, this shows how honest and unconditional Raoul's love for Christine is. Moreover he takes little Pierre as his son with all rights of an heir, not as a bastard.

From Jael Ardon:

Why Raoul? Well, one reason would be because Christine chooses him in the book. And also, the Phantom did realize Raoul and Christine's love was true and let them go. Erik being a genius, talented, humorous, etc., does not necessarily lay a foundation for a marriage either. In the book, Christine overcame her fear of the Phantom and let him kiss her, a triumph on her part. If I had been her, I would have (or I hope I would have) tried to show Erik love in any way I could, but not love as in marriage if I did not truly love him in that way. In addition, Christine's choice is another element of the Phantom story to ponder on, to study about. It is good to wonder what would have happened had it not ended like it did, etc. I like the storyline in the book better than the musical (though the musical is fantastically wonderful, and makes it all come alive), anyways. But then we have two stories, one the original, and another an alternate, to muse upon. As I close, I would like to add that I don't think Raoul could have gotten any girl he wanted. (Well, okay, maybe he could have, but the marriage probably wouldn't last long. Love is a deep and complicated thing, not to be taken lightly.) The story is a tragic one, in love, and also in Erik's appearance. Just think what could have happened had he been accepted by his parents, and then the world! So let us then continue to visit our poor Erik from time to time.

From Tamzin Brodrick:

Some things to keep in mind while pondering the said controversy: Leroux's original novel differs from the musical. Raoul, Christine, and Erik are not completely the same. Erik is much more gruesome-looking (he compares himself to a corpse) in the book, and Raoul is more impulsive. Christine is the most consistent character. As I read the comments on the Why Erik? page, I couldn't recollect where Raoul mentioned Christine giving him kids or showing that he only cared for looks. There shouldn't be any prejudice against the "poor" or disfigured, but what about prejudice against the rich and handsome? Many believe Erik is sexy. And romantic. Truly spoken. But is this the Phantom from the book or musical?

From Tiffany:

Ok ... Let's get this straight. I'm not so much defending Raoul as I am 'defending Christine's choice'... if that makes sense. There is a difference between saying "Christine should have ..." and saying "If I were Christine I'd have ..." I believe Christine made the right choice in choosing Raoul. She LOVED Raoul. She didn't love Erik. No doubt she felt extraordinary pity for him (who wouldn't?..ok.. alot of people.. *shakes fist at the remainder of phantom characters*) ... but not love. It would have been almost cruel, on all parties, for Christine to have given in to Erik. Christine would be without Raoul, whom she loved; Raoul, who had done nothing but the right things by her, would be without Christine; and Erik ... with his prize, but still no love in return. Could even Erik stand that after a time? Could anyone? ... Now, as for "If I were Christine..." ...there isn't a single doubt in my mind as to who I would choose. ERIK ALL THE WAY!!! But, that's just me ... and half a million other Erik obsessors ... *cough* ...and I guess that's just cause ERIK IS A THOUSAND TIMES BETTER THAN RAOUL!!! ...What can I say? Christine just has unfortunate taste ...

From Noelle:

I can't believe that I am actually defending Raoul. I have been a long time Raoul basher. The Phantom loves Christine, but his love is based on passion and Christine the object. His love eventually deepens, but Raoul's love is much more solid than his. That kind of love lasts longer than the kind the Phantom had, which probably was just the way he loved. Who knows where Christine and the Phantom would live. Despite his promises to follow her, they probably would have lived under the Opera House. And what would they do? If they were not each devotedly in love with each other and willing to compromise, it would get rather unpleasant after a while. Perhaps they would have adjusted, but Christine really did not want to live in a dungeon her whole life with this guy, tragic character that he was. As for his physical ugliness, I really do not agree with some of these posters saying that that was an important aspect to the relationship. Attraction is important, and it is usually based on physicality, but not always. It is perfectly possible to be wildly attracted to someone who is homely, and even deformed. Like Christine says at the end, his face is not what bothers her so much, it's his distorted sould (paraphrasing the musical). Anyway, as much as I can't stand Raoul, she was definitely better off choosing him. As for me . . . : )

From Anna:

Well, to tell you the truth, I think Christine made the right choice. I mean, think of it: staying with a man underground, being married to him, and being his slave forever. Then again, Erik loved Christine very much and would have done anything for her, and Raoul could have had any woman he wanted - Erik could not. But, if I were Christine, I would have chosen Raoul. Think of the stares you would get out in public if you would have married Erik! I think Christine made the right choice!

From Hayley:

I thought about it and it would be hard to choose. But the Phantom scared her, he killed people, he kiddnaped her. I would be scared too. Raoul made her feel safe and that's what she wanted. That's why she chose Raoul. And in the book he said he was going to lay down to rest forever real soon and so she would not have the Phantom for a long time any way. Raoul is a great person too. What he had that the Phantom didn't was Raoul made her feel safe.

From Meg:

OK, first, I have just seen the the show on Broadway with the most recent cast, and I have not read any of the book versions, so maybe I'm missing something, but based on what I know, here's my judgement. Christine and Raoul are in love. Christine cared about the Phantom because he was supposedly sent by her father, who she loved. Also, Erik was her teacher, and she didn't know all the bad things about him, at least not right away. However, she saw his face, and became frightened. This increased when he killed Buquet. Raoul came with her to the rooftop, and said (or more accuratly, sang) he loved her. I find it very interesting that at the end of the show, Erik says the exact same thing, the exact same way. I DO feel sorry for Erik, but he is still a murderer, he put himself before Christine, and would've killed the man she loved. And with the whole 'Don Juan' thing, Raoul really thought that nothing would happen to Christine, and he would've taken another way if there'd been one.

From Rebekah:

Erik was a murderer, a mad man, and someone you could not trust. No matter how passionate he was for love Erik was cleary a dangerous man! Plus his face is too frightening to bear! I would be frightened to wake up to a monster. Raoul is clearly passionate also, and loving and romantic! Plus he was willing to give up his life for Christine! How many men would do that?

From Katherine:

I've always understood the Erik/Raoul situation as this: Christine may have loved them both very much, but she had given her whole heart away a long time ago (to Raoul, of coarse) and a heart once given is given forever. It was a hard choice, but really the only choice. P.S. I personally would have chosen Erik, after some anti-depressants and sunlight. Good thing I'm not Christine!

From Evelyn:

I may be taking a stance not often argued, but oh well, let it be heard. I have only seen the play with Sarah Brightman as Christine (horribly innacurate). I would not have stayed with Erik, as a lover at least. Assuming that I am in Christine's position, I have a childhood friend (Raoul) that loves me. And, apparently, I love him back. A relationship between me and Erik would be like that of a student and teacher-its just not done. Of course, anyone who takes this viewpoint has to be at least a wee superficial, but its even more than that. The truth is, healthy relationships are based in the flesh as much as in the spiritual realm. It's true that Erik is talented and all that rot, but honestly, how could you truly love a face that not even a mother can love. You may try to be intellectual by claiming to be allured by the soul and not the appearance, but it something that is unoften done. And besides, all the crazy talent just adds to his complete freaky spinechilling -ness. I say keep Raoul and pay Phantom for voice lessons and let him kill who pleases.

From "Steve Barton lover":

First, what girl in her right mind would go with a psycho composer who MURDERS people?! OK, we should have compassion on the phantom (he did have a horrible childhood), but don't stay with the guy cause you feel sorry for him! And he didn't love Christine! The phantom is like a moder-day stalker: he focusses in on one person, and gets unhealthily obsessed with that person. And really, Christine just didn't love him. She didn't know who he was (Angel of Music?!), and she was scared of him ("what I used to dream I now dread!"). So, it's simply ridiculous to even argue that Christine should have gone with the Phantom. Please, would you?! OK, enough why she shouldn't go with the Phantom...why Christine should go with Raoul (preferrably Steve Barton!)... 1. He's got a great voice!! OK, so maybe that isn't the greatest reason, but Steve has got one heck of a good voice! 2. Christine and Raoul were childhood friends...she knows who he is and what kind of a person he is. 3. Raoul is willing to give his life for Christine. When the Phantom captures her, Raoul follows them, and when the Phantom threatens to kill him is Christine won't marry him, Raoul encourages her to escape and let him die. Ready and willing to lay down his life for the woman he loves! Who wouldn't want that in a guy?! 4. Raoul loves Christine, and she loves him. I don't recall Christine singing "All I Ask of You" with the Phantom, so it's only fair to assume that her heart belongs to Raoul. What more of a reason could you want? If you love the guy, and he loves you, why should go with anyone else? 5. Raoul is a mentally stable human being. He has a way of providing a home for her (I don't think the sewers count as a home!), and you don't have to worry that he'll do something irrational in the heat of a lover's quarrel (like kill someone! Note, the phantom had a tendancy to do that!) 6. OK, gotta mention all the physical qualities: Raoul is young, handsome (more than just a step above deformed!), rich, loving, caring, kind, compassionate, dedicated (in a healthy way!), sweet, romantic, doesn't have a problem with jealousy (he doesn't kill his competition!), and let's face it, he's just plain hot! Really, I understand your love for the Phantom, but to expect Christine to go with him is just crazy. I mean, what kind of life would she have? The Phantom really needed help. Would you marry Norman Bates from Psycho? So please, don't expect Christine to end up with the Phantom. Besides, she and Raoul were in love and happy together!

From Lindsay:

Even though Raoul is a bit wimpy in the book, I still think he's the better choice. Reasons: 1) Even though he's a sissy, he went through hell to rescue Christine. He always put her safety ahead of his. He encouraged her to choose the scorpion and marry Erik so she and the rest of the people at the Opera could be safe. Erik would have blown up the entire Opera, killing Christine, if she didn't choose him. Eventually, Erik did let Christine follow her heart, but he still put her in a dangerous situation. Erik put his feelings ahead of Christine's and was willing to let her lead a miserable life so he could be happy. 2) Erik is a crazed murderer. I don't know how many girls think mass murderers who delight in strangling people are "hott", but I sure don't think that makes good husband material. 3) Christine loves Raoul. She never loved Erik. She respected and admired him for his talent, then feared him for his power over her. Fear isn't a good thing to base a relationship upon. 4) Erik doesn't love Christine. I think he's more infatuated with her. I'd like to use the Eponine comparison as well. Neither were in love, they just had maniacal crushes

From Weiyi:

In most stories after the charming prince gets the girl the fanfiction reflects a desire by fangirls to take the place of the heroine. For who doesn't like a good Cinderella story? Phantom of the Opera, in this sense, is an oddity. Raoul is the quintessential "Prince Charming" ready to sweep little Christine from her opera days into a richer and better world. Who knew she would be bound, not by the hate of a wicked stepmother, but by a love for a deformed, psychotic, murderer. Just because Erik is an infinitely more charismatic and appealing character doesn't make the actions of Raoul any less honorable. One could see him as a devoted husband and a good provider. He could, and is willing to give Christine the world. However, to the end, I feel that Erik lost Christine much more than Raoul actually won her.

From Monica:

Well, I for one would have definitely gone with Erik. But, I'm going to post this for a certain minority out there. One of my friends said that Raoul's only crimes were "loving Christine. Well, and living. Both of which Erik is also guilty of. So there." Of course, I have quite a few more things him, but-- **is cut off by a certain Raoul-sympathiser over her shoulder**

From Sarah:

Mmmm... Raoul... It's obvious why Christine made the right choice when choosing Raoul. Raoul was not an obsessed murderer who tried to kill the man she loved. Maybe it's just my preference for hot, sweet, kind, intelligent, supportive, rich, young viscounts, but yeah, Christine made a smart move. Hell, I usually hate Christine, but I seriously envy her. If only they existed in real life... *sigh*

From Jana:

You people need to start cutting Raoul some slack. I personally would've stayed with Erik. But that doesn't mean I hate Raoul. I don't see why people blame Christine's choice on Raoul. Raoul didn't even do anything. He was stuck in a noose, for crying out loud. To all you Raoul haters, if there's on person you should be blaming, it's Christine because she was the one who made the choice, not Raoul. I'll stand behind all three of them if I have to. One other thing you guys completely missed was that Erik wanted her to go with him. He made her go. My final words on the matter is leave Raoul alone.

From Anonymous:

Quite simply, I find Raoul and Christine a. much more logical and b. a much more rewarding relationship. As far as logic goes (though I understand love and logic aren't best matched), Raoul is what people seem to hate him for - a gentleman. Also one who has loved Christine, at least being a part of her life, for quite a long time. He is not a murderer, nor does he obsessively try and control her. Erik may be a genius with music, but does that really excuse his other actions? Don't they say as much about him as his musical ability? The fact that Raoul and Christine have a history and both appear to have feelings for the other as people, outside of the opera, is something else which works in their favour. Erik does have passion and does love her - sharing with her a deep love of music - yet I've always wondered whether he would love her so much still if she ever lost her talent - yes he had to teach her, but the potential must have been there all along. Raoul and Christine's relationship is stronger on that basis too. People portray Raoul as a weak, vain man, yet he does so much for Christine. That doesn't strike me as weak. He's not perfect, but nobody is. I can understand Erik/Christine, but Raoul deserves Christine's love more, for everything he is.

From Mademoiselle Meg:

Artistic merit, of course! *Somebody* has to end up alone. No, I'm kidding. I do support Christine's decision to leave with Raoul, because it was Erik's wish that she marry him, after he saw how much she loved him and what she was willing to sacrifice for his safety. Understand that I am in no way undermining Erik and Christine's love. I believe that they did love each other, but ultimately Erik realized that it would be selfish to make her stay with him when she truly wanted to marry Raoul. Leroux's Raoul is a wonderful character, because he's not Mr. Player Man of the World, as some Phan fictions represent him. (I call this the Cal Hockley Syndrome.) He's new to love and screws up, sticks his foot in his mouth on a regular basis, and plunges recklessly ahead to help the woman he loves in any way he can. That's why I love him so much. I can relate to him, and I find his efforts endearing. In ALW, it's a little different. Raoul's a bit older--and depending on the actor, not so naive. (Steve Barton's Raoul managed to be innocent and debonair alternately, which was quite a feat.) But although the foot in mouth thing is not present (unfortunately), the same recklessness and daring is there. I don't really care for the way ALW played up on Raoul's 'hero' status, since I think a big part of his character in the novel was that he really wasn't. He was a regular guy that was WAY in over his head. However, I fell in love with the ALW Raoul when I heard Steve Barton sing "All I Ask of You". He was so sweet and tender, and all that he does, he does to protect his love. He isn't a bad guy, he isn't a player. At the end of the day he's just a man who will lay down his life without a thought for the woman he loves. Some people are majorly turned against Raoul because of the whole 'Don Juan' bait fiasco. After all, how could any man risk the woman he loves like this? To which I say, he would have risked his own life in a heartbeat if he thought there was another way. He was only thinking of helping Christine to be safe always--which wasn't really going to happen otherwise. Besides, no one else was coming up with any brilliant suggestions. What else were they going to do, throw tomatoes at him? I could write a whole book on why I would have Christine stick by her decision, but I'll have to settle for this one mini-essay. Allow me to sum up: Christine left because she did love Erik. He wanted her to leave and live a happy life with Raoul, and she loved him enough to respect his wishes.

From Maren:

I wouldn't have choosen Erik. I completely agree with Christine. Erik is nothing more than a murderer, and a downright cruel one at that. He does not love Christine more than Raoul. Raoul knows Christine, and loves her, in a way Erik never can. Raoul knows what she is like herself, not just as a singer. Erik sees, and loves, her as an angel (one that is the first person to show him kindness). Raoul sees her for what she is: a woman. I find that E/C is one of the vilest pairings on Earth. It's like putting Hermione Granger with Severus Snape. ::shudder:: I think that Erik is in love with her voice (who wouldn't be? Her voice is so pretty in the musical!) and love itself. Think Eponine from Les Miserables. That's the best analogy I can give. In the book she dreams about Marius a little to practically keep her sanity. And is, in her own words, "a little bit in love" with him. In the musical they are almost best buddies (which they are most diffenatly not in the book!) and he is very sad when she dies. In the book all he thinks about when she dies is the letter she has from Cosette. This is very similar to PotO, where in the book there is absolutely no basis for a serious and compasionate love between Erik and Christine. In the book he is a cold blooded murderer whom she teaches to have some love for other things besides music. In the musical he's actually kinda cute, and not so revolting. He's just a reclusive genius shunned for his looks. In the book it's his actions that cause that. He hasn't lived all his life under the Opera. He spent part of his life in the Middle East (somewhere in Turkey if my memeory serves me correctly)and killed a few people, and had to flee. (again, my memeory may be wrong, but I do believe that something like that happened to him) I'm not trying to be mean or anything, but I just don't understand how someone could prefer the frigid (and yes, in the book he is completly emotionless) murderer to the brave, cute guy that is Raoul.