fishmanlee said:

Timstuff said:

for the emperor destroying Endor, I don't really see the point. The only thing down there is a rebel strike force, so the Death Star's superlaser would be better used on taking down another Rebel cruiser.

um lukes friends are down there! it could be used as a either part of the original plan or a last ditch effort to turn luke to the dark side

That´s what happens on the novelization... :) It has been a long time but the dialogue goes something like...

Emperor: Commander, if the rebels manage to destroy the shield generator, turn the Death Star and destroy the forest moon.

Jerjerrod: Yes, Your Highness... but we have several troops down there.

Emperor (whispering): Destroy it!

Jerjerrod: Yes, Your Highness!

and Luke finally goes for it... :)