Secondary Characters in Dune
The Harkonnens
Baron Vladimir Harkonnen
The Baron serves as the primary antagonist, representing corruption and excess in stark contrast to the Atreides' noble values.
"I must rule with eye and claw — as the hawk among lesser birds."Note
The Baron's physical appearance - grotesquely obese and requiring anti-gravity suspensors - serves as a physical manifestation of his moral corruption.
Beast Rabban
Rabban, the Baron's nephew, exemplifies brutal governance and short-sighted leadership on Arrakis.
TipPay attention to how Rabban's cruel rule of Arrakis is actually part of the Baron's larger scheme to make Feyd-Rautha appear as a savior figure later.
Feyd-Rautha
The Baron's younger nephew represents a dark mirror of Paul Atreides - both are products of careful breeding programs, but choose different paths.
The Fremen
Stilgar
As the leader of Sietch Tabr, Stilgar represents traditional Fremen values and wisdom. His character arc shows the transformation of Fremen society under Paul's influence.
"Stilgar's voice went soft: 'Usul, the strength of the tribe is in you. The strength of us all goes into you. Only you can do this thing.'"
Chani
Though technically a secondary character, Chani's role is crucial as both Paul's lover and a bridge between his old life and new Fremen identity.
ExampleChani's first appearance in Paul's prescient visions, before they actually meet, establishes the theme of fate versus free will that runs throughout the novel.
