The Bene Gesserit Sisterhood. Depending on how you want to read Dune, the sisterhood are:
space nuns who run a drug cartel
feminist icons for showing a clear alternative to patriarchy in religion
anti-feminist due to their existence revolving around the Kwisatz Haderach
and so much more
Here’s a detailed explanation of their role, characteristics, and influence:
1. Origins and Purpose:
The Bene Gesserit are an ancient and exclusive sisterhood whose origins trace back thousands of years before the events of “Dune”.
They are primarily focused on guiding human evolution and politics towards a path they deem beneficial for humanity.
2. Training and Abilities:
Members undergo rigorous mental and physical training from a young age.
They develop skills such as heightened senses, emotional and physical control, and a form of limited prescience.
One of their most notable abilities is the “Voice” — a technique to control others through tone and modulation of speech.
3. Breeding Program:
A central aspect of their influence is their breeding program, designed to produce individuals with specific genetic traits.
They manipulate bloodlines across the universe, aiming to create a prophesied superbeing, the Kwisatz Haderach.
4. Political Influence:
Bene Gesserit are deeply involved in galactic politics, often serving as advisors, concubines, or wives in influential families.
They maintain a facade of being a religious and educational order to conceal their true extent of influence.
5. Philosophy and Beliefs:
Their philosophy combines elements of various religions and esoteric practices.
They believe in the importance of human survival and advancement above individual desires or morality.
6. The Missionaria Protectiva:
Part of their influence is exerted through the Missionaria Protectiva, which plants myths and prophecies in primitive cultures. This is used for manipulation and control when needed.
7. Role in the Dune Series:
In “Dune”, the Bene Gesserit are integral to the plot, with Lady Jessica and her son Paul Atreides being central characters.
Their plans, however, often collide with the unpredictable nature of human emotion and the vast complexities of the universe.
8. Impact and Legacy:
The Bene Gesserit represent a commentary on the nature of power, manipulation, and the potential of human evolution. Futhermore, they exemplify real magick as they are given powers that men cannot access, control, handle, or even survive.
