I also hated his refusal consider the Phantom's plight as described by Christine, never allowing pity to soften his desire to kill Erik out of pure jealousy (and he does, indeed, take a gunshot at him when given the chance). He insults Christine cruelly in fits of jealousy and is scarcely less obsessive than the Phantom, but in a sniveling, childish manner. He came across as a spoiled brat who had never been denied anything in his life and cannot comprehend why Christine doesn't throw herself at him whenever he snaps his fingers. I could not bring myself to like or empathize with him at all and liked Christine less for returning his love. Raoul's character was really my only disappointment. Should I be repulsed by his evil deeds and dark past or moved to pity? Erik's character is truly one larger than life. I found myself amused at the Phantom's practical jokes and ingenuity (such as the banknote affair and Carlotta's unfortunate croaking performance), horrified at his vengeance, impressed by his mastery over the secrets of the opera house, and softened by his slavish love for Christine. I love the way Leroux does not treat him as a mere boogie-man, but gives the readers multiple insights to a complex personality. Erik's character is among the most simultaneously compelling and horrifying ones I've read. Having seen the recently-released film first, then having followed up by listening to a recording of Webber's famous musical adaptation, I was curious to read the text that had inspired the film and the music I enjoyed so much. I started reading The Phantom of the Opera last night and finished this afternoon.
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