Re: Now with corrected HTML!
I had quite a bit to say about Genesis to an Ljuser named Sphinxofthenile (FF.net account: http://www.fanfiction.net/u/1342021/), but it was through FF.net PMs and I no longer have the statements. She might though. It all boiled down to me believing that Genesis had an unstable self-image, VERY impulsive, and I also agree that while his childhood was materially good, he was emotionally deprived/abused. It's one of those childhoods where you KNOW that something is missing/wrong, but can't prove anything or put a finger on it. Of course it doesn't justify his less pleasant actions, but it sure explains it.
Honestly, I don't think he was ever really evil, just a deeply troubled person who spent years doing his damndest to keep everything together, but fell apart when he started to deteriorate. His acts, while unpleasant, were mostly out of desperation rather than superior attitude malice. I think it actually started RIGHT BEFORE the trio fight, but his actions towards Angeal were impulsive acts that he wasn't very proud of. IMO, he looked pretty horrified once he realized what he had done.
I never mentioned it before because of the possible YIKES factor, but I think he might have had Borderline Personality Disorder. From what I've seen of him and what I've read about this very debilitating disorder, he hits quite a few of those symptoms. Still, I can't imagine a video game dealing with such a very real, very serious disorder, but who knows?
I do agree that he escaped through books. As for Angeal, well, honestly, I think him and his family were the very people who saved him from committing suicide/completely falling apart. I view Angeal as someone who helped Genesis "keep it together", so to speak.
Also, he's one of the few villains IN FF7 that actually CAN be redeemed and be believable.