Identity, Politics, and the Postmodern Hero in Frank Herbert’s Dune and Dune Messiah

Abstract

This article examines how Dune can be interpreted through a postmodern lens by focusing on identity fragmentation, systemic forces, and the critique of heroic archetypes and grand narratives. The article can be read as a contemporary critique of right-wing heroism which glorifies singular “great men”. This aligns with Herbert’s intention of deconstructing the heroic figure. Witnessing a glorification of Paul Atreides, Dune Messiah was written specifically in order to reveal the consequences of such messianic narratives. Drawing from the theoretical framework of psychoanalysis, identity theory, and ideology, the article shows a mirroring effect between Paul Atreides’ shattered identity and the fragmentation of the Fremen’s religious and political narrative. Typical of trauma theory, Dune and Dune Messiah exemplify the notions of the perpetuity of trauma as the article shows how the oppression of the Fremen leads to cycles of violence and even more systemic oppression as Paul Atreides becomes Emperor. It can also be argued that the article can be integrated into contemporary political discourse since, nowadays, there is definitely a growing trend in right-wing policies and the rise of messianic figures in politics, similar to the story of Dune.