I have always thought of their relationship as more like the original legend of Orpheus (the musician/poet) and Eurydice ("she whose justice extends widely" - a slayer name if I ever heard one). Particularly in S6, as he tries to "bring her back from the dead" with his song (OMWF, anyone?).
I am, though, now quite taken with the idea that Buffy evolves in S7 from Eurydice to Beatrice (just as the original myth evolves in Dante's retelling). Buffy is Spike's guide to heaven, putting him on the path to redemption. The one he loves chastely, but still deeply.
In La Vita Nuova , Beatrice consumes Dante's burning heart - very reminiscent of the last scene in Chosen.
Still not exactly a happy ending, though. Suddenly, I need to go read some fanfiction.
no subject
I am, though, now quite taken with the idea that Buffy evolves in S7 from Eurydice to Beatrice (just as the original myth evolves in Dante's retelling). Buffy is Spike's guide to heaven, putting him on the path to redemption. The one he loves chastely, but still deeply.
In La Vita Nuova , Beatrice consumes Dante's burning heart - very reminiscent of the last scene in Chosen.
Still not exactly a happy ending, though. Suddenly, I need to go read some fanfiction.
But thank you for the fascinating essay.