Key Facts about Dune
Publication Details
- Author: Frank Herbert
- First Published: 1965
- Genre: Science Fiction/Political Epic
- Original Format: First serialized in Analog magazine (1963-1965)
Setting
- Takes place approximately 20,000 years in the future
- Primary location: Desert planet Arrakis (also known as Dune)
- Part of the larger Imperium universe ruled by the Padishah Emperor Shaddam IV
- Era: After the Butlerian Jihad (which banned thinking machines)
The setting combines elements of feudal society with advanced technology, creating a unique fusion of past and future.
Main Characters
- Paul Atreides: Protagonist, heir to House Atreides
- Duke Leto Atreides: Paul's father, head of House Atreides
- Lady Jessica: Paul's mother, Bene Gesserit concubine to Duke Leto
- Baron Vladimir Harkonnen: Main antagonist, head of House Harkonnen
- Fremen: Indigenous people of Arrakis
Key Themes
- Political intrigue and power dynamics
- Environmental conservation
- Religious manipulation
- Coming-of-age journey
- Colonial exploitation
- Prophecy and destiny
Pay special attention to how these themes interweave throughout the narrative, as they're crucial for analysis in Paper 2.
