Dune Scholarship

Despite stated intentions to focus on women and expand their roles, the new Dune film adaptations disappointingly fall back on stereotypes…

Gertrude Bell, Queen of the Desert, and Jessica of Dune demonstrate women’s ability to navigate unfamiliar territory and exert influence.

Catholic nuns and Bene Gesserit in Dune have titles, clothing, discipline, and influence in common— these are women with a mission.

Jesuits in Catholicism and the Bene Gesserit in Dune have many parallels, including missionary work, education, and political influence.

The influence of eugenics on Frank Herbert’s Dune is visible in the Bene Gesserit’s breeding program but also in Paul’s terrible purpose.