I am in defence for Raoul because Erik is never an option for Christine. She can not base a life long love on pity for someone. She never indicates that she loves the Phantom only that she feels sorry for him.It would be unfair for her to instill in him the hopes of love from her when she was unable to meet him on that leve. Secondly the phantom was a murder, had fits of anger and selfishly through only of himself: his needs, desire and wants from Christine. What kind of a life would she have had with a madman under the Paris Opera house. Yes, Raoul was less dashing but he was commited to Christine, risking his life twice to save her, informing her that the Phantom was not her father and protecting her. Without Raoul Christine would have been lost to the Phantom forever...and with his fits of rage can we honestly say she would be safe with him? When he tired of her beauty and her voice then what? Raoul had a stronger history with Christine (from their childhood) and he always gives her a choice, never manipulating her. He loves her and offers her everything he has as a Count even though she is the chourus girl later promoted to Prima Dona. I'm sure many people in high society would have frowned upon his choice but it can from a heart with sincere love and care for Christine.