The problem is an inconsistencies of definitions -- DUNE Novels Discussion Board

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12/26/24 07:00:12 [ Login ] [ Main index ] [ Post a new message ] [ Search | Check update time | Archives: 1, 2, [3], 4 ]

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Date Posted: 17:44:06 06/05/03 Thu
Author: IDAHO
Subject: The problem is an inconsistencies of definitions
In reply to: Ghanima 's message, "Indeed..." on 16:35:21 06/05/03 Thu

The problem here is the inconsistency with which Frank Herbert defines the Kwisatz Haderach superbeing.

As I pointed out, Mohiam says that it is someone who can see all avenues of the past, masculine and feminine. This to me implies Other Memory, or at least vision that encompasses the past.

The appendix I mentioned states that the Kwisatz Haderach is someone who can understand and use higher order dimensions, a super mentat with some prescient abilities of a guild navigator.

In the glossary of Dune all it says of the Kwisatz Haderach is this:
"Shortening of the Way." This is the label applied by the Bene Gesserit to the unknown for which they sought a genetic solution: a male Bene Gesserit whose organic mental powers could bridge space and time.

Paul himself states he is the Kwisatz Haderach, though he also states that he is NOT what the sisterhood expected.

So what are we to believe? Does it really matter since Paul kind of falls outside the definitions provided?
Should we believe what the characters say or think? The Appendix which is also purportedly written by Irulan (I can only infer here), or do we believe the definition Frank has given in the glossary. Either way, it really is all Frank.

Perhaps we are being to literal about this. perhaps Frank's intention was a super-being and how the mythology of heroes and Superbeings don't always live up to the realities. Also in the same vein he was recalling the Greek Tragedies of old such as Elektra, Oedipus, etc. Perhaps Muad'Dib's specific powers aren't to be totally definied so much as his function in the story?
Just a thought
-IDAHO-

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Replies:

actually it wasn't superbeing.. it was the "Myth of the Messiah" (NT) -- The Cannabist, 18:48:11 06/05/03 Thu
True, but its fun to argue, especially with other people who know the books. (NT) -- Ghanima, 09:21:17 06/06/03 Fri