Dune Messiah

Despite possessing extremely advanced technology, most systems of belief in Dune Messiah place limits on its use. For example, artificial intelligence is taboo and the Bene Gesserit do not believe in artificial insemination. How does this affect the way technology informs the themes of the novel?

Compare and contrast the motives of the Bene Gesserit, the Spacing Guild, the Bene Tleilax, and the Fremen traitors in conspiring against Paul. Does Herbert portray any group as more or less justified than the others?

Why does Herbert begin each chapter with an epigraph? How do these epigraphs contribute to the worldbuilding of the novel? Close read at least three epigraphs to support your argument.

What is the role of romantic love in Dune Messiah? Consider Paul’s established relationship with Chani in comparison to Alia’s developing relationship with Hayt/Duncan.

Clothing often carries great significance in the novel; wearing a stillsuit makes Paul feel more Fremen and wearing his Atreides jacket connects him to his family history. Choose a significant garment worn by another character and examine what it reveals about them.

Consider Dune Messiah in the context of classical Greek tragedy. What elements does Herbert recreate in his novel? What elements are subverted?

Is Paul a hero? Consider both classical, literary definitions of the hero archetype and Herbert’s portrayal of Paul’s own ethics and motivations.

Consider the many kinds of sight and seeing in the novel, including literal sight, prescient vision, physical blindness, and the artificial Tleilaxu eyes. What does this motif of sight or altered/obscured sight signify?