What is heretics of dune?

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Heretics of Dune is the fifth novel in Frank Herbert's Dune series, published in 1984. It marks a significant shift in the Dune universe, taking place 1500 years after the reign of the God Emperor, Leto II. The novel explores themes of societal change, religious evolution, and the dangers of absolute power, all deeply interwoven with the ecological and political tapestry of the Dune universe.

• The Scattering: The centuries following Leto II's death saw a massive exodus from the Old Empire, known as the Scattering. People fled the stagnation and oppression he created, seeking new opportunities and freedoms in the uncharted regions of space. Heretics of Dune witnesses the return of some of these scattered populations, vastly changed and often possessing dangerous new technologies and philosophies.
  • See: The Scattering
• The Bene Gesserit: The Bene Gesserit continue their long-term breeding program and political machinations, adapting to the new threats and opportunities presented by the returning diaspora. Their Reverend Mothers are central characters, navigating the complex power dynamics and trying to secure the future of their order. They face new rivals that threaten their very existence.
  • See: Bene Gesserit
• The Honored Matres: One of the most significant new forces introduced in Heretics of Dune is the Honored Matres. These are aggressive and sexually violent women who have returned from the Scattering. They are ruthless conquerors, possessing incredible physical and mental abilities, and fueled by a deep hatred of the Bene Gesserit and the Old Empire.
  • See: Honored Matres
• Chapter House: The Bene Gesserit establish a new Chapter House on the planet Chapterhouse, attempting to create a secure refuge and further their breeding programs. This becomes a focal point for the conflict between the Bene Gesserit and the Honored Matres. The entire planet is being terraformed.
  • See: Chapter House
• Duncan Idaho: A new Duncan Idaho ghola is created, possessing memories of previous iterations. He is a key figure in the power struggle, sought after by both the Bene Gesserit and the Honored Matres for his unique abilities and potential.
  • See: Duncan%20Idaho
• Teg: Miles Teg, a former Bene Gesserit Bashar, plays a vital role in defending the Bene Gesserit against the Honored Matres. His strategic mind and combat skills are crucial in the fight for survival. He has descended from Leto II and possesses some special abilities.
  • See: Miles%20Teg

Heretics of Dune is a complex and thought-provoking novel that explores the long-term consequences of Leto II's reign and sets the stage for the final book in the original series, Chapterhouse: Dune. It delves into themes of power, religion, and the enduring adaptability of humanity.