@Belhi:

Right, but like I was saying that's horrible but it's no worse than a lot of the stuff that Eorzeans themselves have done in recent years. To a lesser extent, perhaps, but Garlemald's invasion is very much a recent thing. Some Garlean soldiers mistreating prisoners is unfortunate but...it's very, very likely that the same thing happens on Eorzea's side of the fence too. Garlemald is a pretty blatant reference to Rome. Rome was one of the most civilised, advanced and influential societies to ever exist on our planet. Even to this very day it's influence can be found in our day to day lives.


Did it have major problems? Sure, but the quality of life - even for the 'lesser' citizens was arguably much better than what they'd have endured if left to fend for themselves. I don't believe for a second that Eorzea is necessarily 'better' for the average Eorzean. Sure, they may have their 'freedom' but in many cases that in itself is just an illusion. They'd still be bound by poverty and having to deal with all manner of grotesque monsters the moment they step outside of a settlement...

I'm not excusing the Garleans as being pure and righteous. I'm stating that people are rather selective about how they paint them when compared to Eorzeans.