Re: Actually I think that's his point - Edit 1
Before modification by NaClH2O at 05/09/2009 03:19:02 AM
Individual Aes Sedai can and often do perform great acts. The Aes Sedai as a collective on the other hand, whether it's the united White Tower, Elaida's Tower, or the Salidar rebels, accomplish little. I would have to look into it all a bit more closely to be sure (perhaps during another reread) but it might even be fair to say that they do more harm than good.
You are conveniently forgetting that for all practical purposes Elaida IS the WT. At least as far a public pronouncements and actions are concerned. If you haven't noticed, she rules the tower with an iron fist, and the least bit of non-compliance with her edicts (or the ones given her by the Black Ajah) are met with exceedingly harsh punishment. I've already agreed with the OP that as far as fighting the Shadow is concerned Elaida is pretty superfluous. But that's NOT what was written!!! The original post said "Aes Sedai are superfluous". That is what I disagree with. If the orignal post had said. "Elaida is such a meglomaniac that she is effing everything up" I would go "Right on brother" In fact approx 1/3 of all AS agree to the extent that they are focused 100% on getting her out of there.
Unfortunately, that is not what the original post said. Basically he said that the only thing the AS do is bumble about getting in other ppls way.
NaCl(THAT is what I take issue with)H2O ' />