I don't think von Balthasar was a heretic - like many theologians, he had certain areas of doctrinal weakness, but that is probably why he, like Origen and many other brilliant theologians who preceded him but also had doctrinal weaknesses in certain spots, will always remain a theologian and never be a Doctor of the Church. At the same time, some of the other things he wrote, particularly about the papacy and the primacy of Peter, are truly excellent.
That said, I love anything that mentions the great Dr. Johnson.
Given the demonic actions of some of our fellow human beings, it is fitting that there be a hell, if only because no human justice can make up for such actions. I mean what torture is great enough to" reward" Saddam for the thousands he killed out of malice?