Yes, which is why I was ridiculously happy I got them second try. I really do sense that the boss-difficulties weren't upped evenly between the different modes - either that, or you and I have much different styles.

No. He may be a pretty little bastard, but he's still a little bastard >< (I would venture that a lot of it is in the way they act. I don't notice any difference in looks, but Vergil's bearing, which is a lot more calm and refined than Dante's, makes him appear more graceful, and yes, pretty)

I may forgive him when I'm done with this battle, though >.>