Another aspect (not mentioned here before) of the de-humanized Prequels is the kid-parent relationship.
Please, compare OT and PT:
Old Trilogy
My dad was a hero, I want to be just like him.
Gosh, my dad turned out to be a bad guy, but I still love him and want to save him somehow.
Dad, you are asking for trouble, but still, I don't want to kick your butt. Just leave my sister out of this.
Prequels
Goodbye mom, you can still be a slave, but I'm gonna be bad a55 Jedi mofo.
I should not miss my mom, Jedi should be free of emotions.
I promised to set my mom free, but I'm kinda busy playing the role of kewl Jedi mofo now.