Dune and The Dispossessed - Essay Example

An excellent example of how Herbert brings the principles of general semantics to life in Dune is found in the Bene Gesserit, "an ancient school of physical and mental training for females" (Touponce p.18). For centuries, the Bene Gesserit have conducted a human breeding program with the objective of eventually producing a person with superior mental powers whom they refer to as the "Kwisatz Haderach" or "one who can be many places at once" (Herbert p.508). All signs indicate that Paul Atreides might be that person.

To create Bene Gesserit training Herbert combined principles of general semantics with yoga, Zen, biofeedback, and nonverbal communication to produce these powerful beings of superior intelligence and ability (O'Reilly p.60). Meaning in this passage stems almost exclusively from gesture and not from spoken language. Both Jessica and Paul show their respect for the Reverend Mother, but only minimally and without wasted effort. This economy of gesture and language provides for effective communication with a minimum of effort, and is the foundation of "ecological semantics.

" Paul's actions serve as proof for what the Reverend Mother already knows about Jessica's training of the boy. Paul is powerless and under the control of t. Here, the capitalized term "Voice" refers to an aspect of Bene Gesserit training where, through shadings of tone in voice utterances, a user can control others (Herbert p.532).This passage reveals Paul's understanding of the power of language. Assigning physical qualities to the words personifies their power. The words are "outlined in brilliance," have "an edge," and are capable of lifting Paul "out of his fleshworld.

"Even Herbert's emphasis on the power of language found in the ordinary spoken word, (i.e. lower case "voice") is evident throughout the novel. At times it is subtle; at others it is overtly stated. An examination of the episode in which Paul makes himself known to the Fremen reveals Herbert's emphasis on language in action. In the epigraph preceding the chapter, a quotation from the "Private Reflections on Muad'Dib," the Princess Irulan, chronicler of Paul's life and times, overtly acknowledges the power of language: "Does the prophet see the future or does he see a weakness, a fault or cleavage that he may shatter with words or decisions as a diamond-cutter shatters his gem with a blow of a knife" (Herbert)).277). The episode that follows represents a pivotal point in the novel for it vividly recounts the Fremens' capture of Jessica and Paul after their ordeal of escape into the desert.

More importantly, however, this experience marks Paul's entry into the Fremen culture to whose leadership he eventually will ascend.From this pivotal point forward, Paul faces many challenges and tests over a period of time which serve to solidify his position as leader of the Fremen in their quest for control of Arrakis. Paul matures and develops into manhood. In the novel's climatic scene, Paul and the