Tautologies abound, that is for certain.

In relation to the ongoing argument, I think certain posters would do well to separate the two realities we are dealing with here. RJ's gender relations are most interesting when they are seen as being inverted compared to our history, very generally speaking, but I do not think modern feminism/anti-sexism theory can be applied here without being very problematic. I certainly think it unnecessary and somewhat ridiculous to express fear of the fact that Rand's political power may help perpetuate the chivalric values held by many in the world of the Wheel. I think there is a confusing of realities here that is not doing a lot for this discussion. Any literary work should be discussed on its own terms. TWoT is not a contemporary piece, and thus I do not think it makes much sense to analyze its gender relations seen through the lens of how modern gender theory in some way is superior.

No temper, I was perfectly calm when I wrote that.

Seriously, though, it seems to me that you have failed to grasp the roles of particular characters and institutions. If RJ followed your advice, the series would degenerate completely. Your proposal for Rand to show how tough he is would completely ruin any chance of winning Tarmon Gaidon in a logically viable fashion. Although this work falls under the category of speculative fiction, realism is a strong feature in it. It needs to make sense internally.

If Rand were to destroy the White Tower, he would destroy an indispensable ally. He would lose because of that, as the Aes Sedai will play a crucial part in the Last Battle. First you have the fact that he would lose the support of the most experienced channelling body in the world. He would turn every woman affiliated to the tower against him, turning an ally into an enemy, at least until the trollocs pour out of the Blight. In addition to that, he would more than likely lose the support of the nations, both in terms of popular opinion and military support. By destroying the Tower he would pull the rug from underneath the structure of the westlands, and he would stand on his own. The Tower is the oldest enduring institution of power in the world, and in many ways the cornerstone of society. If removed, everything would collapse. Although it may be an obstacle to Rand in several ways, he needs it. Destroying it might satisfy an adolescent need to take powerful women down a peg, but not much else.

Another point: Rand never licks Aes Sedai boots. When did that happen? He treats Cadsuane with a modicum of respect, which is only to be expected. All others he push around to do his bidding. The so-called "female supremacy crap" you refer to is hardly evidenced in the books. Far Madding is the only location in the books fitting that bill, to my eyes.

And how does Rand not act like a man? He is making the ultimate sacrifice, doing what he has to do, in a very uncooperative world that would rather he had never been born.

yeah, the solution would be for characters you think are weak to kill everyone you do not like. That makes them strong and "cool". We all know how that works out in real life. Why don't you read Goodkind instead of Jordan? If you want types instead of characters, he will probably satisfy you.

Tuon probably refers to the point about the Red Hand in her statement in KoD. I think this part is a bit poorly articulated by RJ. The part about Hawkwing, however, is found in CoT, chapter 3, A Fan of Colors. Tuon asks Mat if he remembers Hawkwing's face, and although Mat lies and says that he does not, Tuon sees through it.

How on earth can you call that a real-life parallell?

People who use Trollocs as footsoldiers tend to be in the service of the DO, I should think.

People who use Trollocs as footsoldiers tend to be in the service of the DO, I should think.