“Deep in the human unconscious is a pervasive need for a logical universe that makes sense. But the real universe is always one step beyond logic.”
Frank Herbert, Dune
Book one of the Dune series is simply titled Dune. This book follows Paul Atreides as he learns the terrible purpose which has led to place in this world. The son of a Duke and a powerful member of the Bene Gesserit, Paul is forced to grapple with his various birthrights and the fact that his dreams are starting to become reality.
This book is a study about how positions of power are easily exploited. If you are a new fan you may not be familiar with the fact that Frank Herbert wanted Paul’s rise to power as a cautionary tale about charismatic leaders. Paul can see the future, yet he is unable to stop the violence done in his name. Despite this, many readers still love Paul despite his sometimes questionable actions.
I started reading Dune shortly after the release of Denis Villeneuve’s first Dune movie staring Timothée Chalamet. The book drew me in through the complexity of the world building and the strong characters. Additionally, political scheming is a big part of the Dune series, and book one is no exception. The Baron Harkonnen is one of my favorite characters and this is mainly due to the first book. Despite his life being that of gross hedonism, he is clearly an intelligent leader and especially ruthless due to his position as head of one of The Great Houses. The scheming he partakes in with the Emperor to destroy house Atreides is not only meant to destroy his rival. These plans are also a way to bring his own family onto the Golden Lion Throne. The motif of “Plans Within Plans” is seen throughout Dune and the Bene Gesserit are not the only ones scheming for power.