DUNE

The mystery of life isn’t a problem to solve, but a reality to experience. A process cannot be understood by stopping it. Understanding must move with the flow of the process, must join it and flow with it.
Frank Herbert, Dune (1965)

Books

The World of Dune

Frank Herbert’s Dune is set in a distant future where feudal houses, powerful guilds, and religious orders shape the fate of humanity. The economy and politics of the universe revolve around one thing: the spice melange, a substance that extends life, enhances mental abilities, and enables interstellar travel. Only Arrakis holds this resource.

Arrakis: The Desert Planet

Arrakis, often called Dune, is a world of endless sand and brutal extremes. It is inhabited by the Fremen, a people who wear stillsuits and possess deep knowledge of the desert. Their vision may change the fate of the planet.

Arrakis is not just a setting; it is a force that shapes destiny. Those who control it hold the key to power, but the desert has its own rules.

Arrakis Desert Planet, Governor's Mansion Map of Arrakis

The Houses

House Atreides

House Atreides is known for justice, loyalty, and honor. Led by Duke Leto Atreides, they are beloved and respected. When they are given control of Arrakis, they are caught in a deadly trap.

Paul Atreides, Leto’s son, embarks on a journey to reshape Arrakis. Their story is one of resistance against tyranny.

Gurney Halleck, Duke Leto, Thufir Hawat More about Caladan

House Harkonnen

House Harkonnen is known for cruelty, deceit, and ruthless ambition. Their leader, Baron Vladimir Harkonnen, seeks total control.

Despite their power, underestimating the Atreides and Fremen leads to their downfall.

House Harkonnen Map of Giedi Prime

House Corrino

House Corrino rules the Imperium. Shaddam IV, the Emperor, uses the Sardaukar to maintain control. Though officially neutral, he conspires against the Atreides.

House Vernius

Once rulers of Ix, House Vernius was overthrown for producing forbidden machines. They remain important through their technological legacy.

House Richese

Known for technological development, they compete with Ix but lack major influence.

House Moritani

Known for violence and assassins, House Moritani represents the darker side of noble politics.

The author

Frank Herbert

Frank Herbert (1920–1986) was a visionary science fiction writer and ecologist. His work, including Dune, reflects deep thought on ecology, politics, and human nature.