The Messiah of Arrakis: The Myth of the Messianic Figure in Frank Herbert's Dune (1965) and Dune: Messiah (1969)

This dissertation discusses Frank Herbert's Dune (1965) and Dune: Messiah (1969) protagonist Paul Atreides, arguing that the character of Paul is a complex and ambivalent messianic figure in Herbert’s saga. Through the analysis of Paul’s character and drawing from literary theory and religious studies, focusing on the messianic traditions in Christianity, Judaism and Islam, this work examines how Herbert constructs him as a faithful and yet subverted messianic figure, set on manipulating his myth in favour of vengeance and power. He is aware of the mythology created in his name by the Bene Gesserit, and takes advantage of it to gain control over the Fremen. By applying the literary theories on myth of Roland Barthes, Mircea Eliade, and Joseph Campbell, the study demonstrates that myth and religion can be a dangerous weapon in the game for power. Paradoxically, Paul is an ambivalent character, for his messianism is both a source of empowerment and slavery, leading to his complete dehumanisation and loss of agency. Ultimately, this research aims to contribute and acknowledge the importance of myth in science fiction and its implications for power, religion, and ideology.