Navigating the Dunes: Ranking the Original Series by Frank Herbert with a Closer Look at Chapterhouse: Dune”

If you’re a science fiction enthusiast, chances are you’re familiar with Dunes the monumental work by Frank Herbert currently undergoing adaptation into a movie series helmed by director Denis Villeneuve. Regarded as one of the most influential pieces in science fiction, “Dune” has left an indelible mark on literature, film, and art. If you’re contemplating a journey into this intricate universe, the recommended starting point is simple: begin with the inaugural book, “Dune,” published in 1965.

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Dunes

However, not all Dunes books are on equal footing. Frank Herbert authored six Dunes books before his demise in 1986, and subsequent sequels and spinoffs were penned by his son Brian Herbert in collaboration with Kevin J. Anderson. The fandom engages in lively debates over the ranking of the original six books. In this article, I’ll present my personal assessment of the original “Dune” series by Frank Herbert.

Firstly, let’s establish the chronological order of the six original “Dune” books:

“Dune” (1965)
“Dune Messiah” (1969)
“Children of Dune” (1976)
“God Emperor of Dune” (1981)
“Heretics of Dune” (1984)
“Chapterhouse: Dune” (1985)
Now, let’s delve into the rankings:

6. Chapterhouse: Dune (1985)

The final installment in the series, “Chapterhouse: Dune,” unfortunately, emerges as the weakest link. Suffering from a lack of focus, a sluggish pace, and an unsatisfactory conclusion that leaves numerous questions unanswered, the book follows the Bene Gesserit’s struggle against the Honored Matres. These violent former Bene Gesserit members return from the Scattering, creating a narrative that introduces intriguing elements but ultimately fails to provide a gratifying end to the saga. Some deem it an anticlimactic conclusion to the epic tale of the desert planet Arrakis and its enigmatic spice melange.

Spoilers Ahead!

The storyline picks up from “Heretics of Dune,” with the Bene Gesserit facing threats from the Honored Matres. The narrative follows characters like Darwi Odrade, Duncan Idaho (ghola), Sheeana, and Miles Teg, exploring twists, revelations, and philosophical themes. Despite its drawbacks, “Chapterhouse: Dune” stands as a testament to Frank Herbert’s visionary storytelling and raises profound questions about humanity, free will, evolution, and transcendence.

While the book concludes with a cliffhanger, it resonates with the overarching themes of the series and prompts contemplation about life’s uncertainties. Herbert’s avoidance of fantastical elements in favor of grounded science and reality adds depth to the narrative. For those seeking neatly tied conclusions, the ending might not suffice, but it remains a satisfying resolution for others who appreciate the nuanced complexity of Herbert’s creation.

In the words of Herbert, “Think you of the fact that a deaf person cannot hear. Then, what deafness may we not all possess? What senses do we lack that we cannot see and cannot hear another world all around us?”

Despite its imperfections, “Chapterhouse: Dune” is a worthwhile read for genre enthusiasts, showcasing Herbert’s brilliance and leaving readers with a rich and intricate universe that challenges and captivates. The unresolved questions contribute to the reflective nature of the series, inviting readers to ponder the mysteries within and beyond the narrative.