Dune Messiah is my favorite Dune book because of this quote: "To endure oneself may be the hardest task in the universe. You cannot hire a wise man or any other intellect to solve it for you. There's no writ of inquest or calling of witness to provide answers. No servant or disciple can dress the wound. You dress it yourself or continue bleeding for all to see."
I think it's underrated. There are so many of examples of these brilliant singular moments it's overwhelming. I have more highlights in Messiah than any other
I didn't really like dune Messiah right until the end, but the quotes were really good. "The convoluted wording of legalisms grew up around the necessity to hide from ourselves the violence we intend towards each other. Between depriving a man of one hour from his life and depriving him of his life there exists only a difference of degree. You have done violence to him, consumed his energy. Elaborate euphemisms may conceal your intent to kill, but behind any use of power over another the ultimate assumption remains: 'I feed on your energy.'"
Quote sounds more profound than it really is. Ppl hire psychologists, therapists, psychics, bartenders, drug dealers, and all the like all the time. Humans and their problems don’t exist in a vacuum. In Asimov’s The Foundation, he explores the masses as a symptom to legends rather than the individual. Dune, in my mind, accomplishes the same thing unintentionally because Herbert focused more on the individual and the masses like characters they can relate to.
@@Alex-oy6wb You can hire a therapist or a psychiatrist, they can tell you what to do, but it’s still your responsibility to follow whatever advice they give.
@Ta I'm just saying the child should've had 3 terror legions released on her to motivate her to.....repent...for her actions. A real kwitzack hadderak would do the same.
I've only read the first 3, and for me Messiah might actually be my favorite. When I first read it as a teenager I was blown away by how it yanks the rug out from under the expectations and tropes of the genre.
Glad to see some folks who (like me) love #2 the best. As rich and thoughtful as all of his books are (e.g. "key logs and dependencies!"), I absolutely loved the tension of what I feel is his best-paced, pure page-turner of a book. It also has two of the most memorably awesome scenes I've ever read anywhere, about 50 pages apart: the moment Hayt becomes Duncan and the knife throw using borrowed sight.
I'm a male of almost 60 years and just reread the books. I figured out early on in reading Messiah what the "problem" was: it's not a book that's going to appeal to young men. Just as the Kwisatz Hadarach is able to see into the "male" dark place opaque to the the Bene Gesserit, this book is decidedly more "feminine." It is Yin to Dune's Yang. I enjoyed it immensely for that reason alone. I think once you get that, you could argue that Messiah was even more groundbreaking than the first book.
@@johnjamesbaldridge867 Man of 30 here: I was drawn in by the first chapter of Messiah but found the constant visions and dialogue and philosophizing so boring that by the halfway mark I was skimming and by the end I barely knew what was going on. You've encouraged me to re-read it when I finish the series. Thanks.
I like to believe Dune is real, a real and accurate historical masterpiece that was sent back to us through a time loop to educate and warn humanity of our undeniable future!!
This is so interesting! Messiah is actually one of my favorites. I find the tension between Paul's love for Chani and his desperate sadness over the path he must take to be extremely moving, and by the end of it, I was emotionally wrecked. I suppose, in that way, it has some similarities to God Emperor, but for some reason I find it more romantic (although the end of God Emperor is something truly unforgettable).
Even before reading the first book of Dune I had heard about Leto Atreides the II, The god emperor, the great worm. I was so intrigued by his figure that I run through the first three books (enjoying every Page) Just to get to the god emperor. And when i Read it.... Jesus what a novel, what a masterpiece. It was like reading a Shakesperian play, an antropology and filosofical issue, with the scope and influence of an epic poem, all of that set in a extraordinary and complex space opera setting. All of that added to Leto himself, what a fascinating, beatiful and bizzare character. When i finished it, I felt like very well the huge scope and ambition of Herbert's work. Great video, the only thing I disagree its with Dune Messiah which would be my third Favorite. Thanks for reading!
I love it that you picked God Emperor of Dune and was pleasantly surprised! This is my all time fave And have read it multiple times. It’s also my son’s favorite. I love how Leto II is nearly invulnerable and is aware of every scheme against him but chooses how and when his reign will end.
omg I was so excited to realize we have the EXACT same ranking! I've been debating with other people for years about how God Emperor is the best in the series. Everybody argues with me that it's just Leto talking the whole time but it's in this book that you realize just how complex Leto's character is. It's in this book that you truly compehend the immense scale of the Golden Path and how Leto submitted himself and humanity to centuries of suffering to actually save the human race. It's a deep plot never equalled in sci-fi to this day IMO.
@@zannaifacedancer5915 some people don't like the lack of action and the philosophical nature of the book. I get it. It can be a bit of a snooze fest at times but it's worth it in the end.
Sorry if I've been rude. I've read God Emperor several times because I love it, with its philosophical nature. In fact it's my second fav. But for some reasons, Heretics will always be my favorite.
"not equalled in sci-fi to this day" Have you read of The Book of the New Sun? God Emperor is my second favorite of all time and we've all mentioned why it's great, but The Book of the New Sun is unmatched in how dense of a novel it is. It has a lot of parallels to God Emperor.
Yeah, pretty much. 1 and 2 are interchangeable to me. God Emperor of Dune does one of the ballsiest moves in a series ever. "Dune" is a classic and is probably my #1.
I was genuinely surprised by the choices for #2 and #1, but I can see why. It's remarkable how Frank Herbert writes stories with characters that are superhuman in many ways, but ultimately relatable and surprisingly convincing. God Emperor stretches that to its very limit to make profound philosophical points and paint an incredible canvas. But, Dune's characters are the most vibrantly, tragically, lovingly human. It's subjective, which kind of story you like best.
nice one! about dune messiah though, I believe it has one of the best scenes I've ever read: quick hint (and spoil!), paul uses prana bindu technics to rebalance, via observing himself remotely via Leto II sight. That finale was awesome!
I'm not sure why God Emperor is my favorite of the series. Maybe it's the sweeping scope. Maybe it's the depth of Herbert's imagination brought to such vivid life. Or maybe it's because Leto II agrees with me that Duncan Idaho is the greatest character in the universe.
From what I’ve read of the Dune books so far, I still have less than 200 pages left of God Emperor... and loving it! My personal favorite is still Dune Messiah, then Dune. Children of Dune. God Emperor. I’m hoping these last hundred pages will change my mind and make God Emperor my number one. Also, just want to say, thanks so much for getting me into these books with your videos. Dune has become my favorite series to date.
Chandler, I am right there with you on this. I'm halfway through God Emperor and find it hard to read at the same quick pace that I was with the first three. The jump in time and structure has thrown me for a loop that was much unexpected.
@@hollowsoul666 I just finished Emperor yesterday and I'm currently sitting with Messiah then GEoD (and Dune & Children are kinda interchangeable for me). I LOVED how much of a scalpel Messiah is in cutting down any heroism in the leader (the Stoneburner scene!) and the fact that GEoD drags a bit in the middle. I understand the point is to emulate Leto's Peace in the reader to set them up for a grand new adventure/trilogy, buuuuuuuut perhaps we could've stood to lose/condense 1 or 2 'Leto pontificates to someone about how they don't understand a thing' scenes? Maybe swap that for a chapter or 2 of Siona doing a thing that gave her more of a character? But still excited to go back and re-read the series once I'm through Heretics & Chapterhouse
You know, there’s something wholesome seeing someone smiling showing off a book they like. Wise enough to know the learning never stops, smart enough to enjoy it. My wife’s an English teacher and thats her favorite kind of student. But she only gets a kid or two every year that even cares to read book thoroughly
If there must be a ranking, this is an excellent one. God Emperor is among my favorite books, fiction or non. IMO it’s also the most dependent on its predecessors due to its philosophical, dialogue-heavy nature. But what a treasure once you’ve read the 1st three! Dune Messiah, or something much like it, was actually a part of the original Dune manuscript. The manuscript was later split into two parts, at an editor’s recommendation if I remember right, with the split happening just after a triumphal moment such that the editor probably thought it would lead to greater sales. When I last read Dune I went straight into Messiah as though just starting another chapter. Try it!
I was blown away by Dune. The first chapter of Messiah was strong, but by the end I was so bored I had lost the plot entirely. These rankings give me hope. Thanks.
I'm glad I watched this. I'm currently reading Messiah for the 1st time, and it's such a step down from Dune I was unsure whether to carry on or not. I think I will now.
@@cjhepburn7406 what can I say God Emperor was my favorite (w/ the exception if the Ducan Idaho gholas, could've brought back anyone more interesting). Granted I like the characters of the 1st book and it is the story that drew me into the series, the God Emperor gives a compelling narrative that seems to mirror the real world.
@@lifegoeson1007 It is definitely a great book series! Sure, it's difficult to keep up with the reading, but journey was well worth it! If it takes a while for you to read, then I recommend audiobooks!
toh786 ok, yeah because I saw that there are 8 books 😬 but, if the reading is entertaining and interesting enough then audiobooks should workout. I might at least try with the first book and see how it goes, thank you 😄
@@lifegoeson1007 From the top of my head, it goes like this chronologically, with some spoilers: Legends of Dune Trilogy (Bulterian Jihad, The Machine Crusade and Battle of Corrin) - Mankind's battle against artificial intelligence. If you like Terminator or Battlestar Galactica, I recommend it! Schools of Dune Trilogy (Sisterhood of Dune, Mentats of Dune and Navigators of Dune) - Based 80 years after the end of the previous trilogy. Talks about the gradual shift from technology towards human psychic abilities and the establishments of special training specialisied individuals which become mainstream by the beginning of the original novel. Prelude to Dune trilogy (House: Atreides, House: Harkonnen and House: Corrino) - Takes place a generation before the original novel and provides an interesting backstory! Original Dune - House Atreides VS House Harkonnen. Paul of Dune - 7 years later into the intergalactic jihad and flash backs. Dune Messiah - 7 years later. Paul's rule is supreme. Winds of Dune - Alia Atreides attempts to rule Arrakis and the known universe during Paul's absence. Children of Dune - Paul Atreides's children take focal point. God Emperor of Dune - 3500 years later. Totally different characters, with two familiar ones... Heretics of Dune - 1500 years later after the end of a tyrannical rule. People return from the scattering. Chapterhouse of Dune - Immediately starts afterwards (ish). Sisterhood is in hiding and is fighting the Honoured Matres. Hunters of Dune & Sandworms of Dune - Haven't read these two, but I believe I know the gist of the story... Concludes the entire saga. I think these two would make more sense if you read the first two prequel trilogies...
toh786 thank you very much, I do like the Terminator so, I might like the first one for sure. The rest sound interesting too, I’m going to keep note of this 😃. Edit: the second one of makes me think of what they’re trying to do with us, with the chip implants 🤔
amen brother. I was so horrified that Good Emperor would be near the bottom of the list but jumped for joy to see you also loved this amazing book. I have read that one book over 10 times now and I still feel I am only scratching the surface, there is just so much to think about in that story. Bravo!
I didn't realize people were requesting this, but I think it's cool to get your perspective. I'd personally love to hear your opinions and rankings on the Brian/Kevin novels too.
You are a BRAVE man taking on a task like this. I like that you pulled out God Emperor and Chapter House and they had the same covers as mine. I bought those as soon as they went on sale.
Heretics & Chapterhouse have always been my favourites. Im kind of surprised to see God Emporer as many peoples no.1. It certainly stands out in the series for reasons obvious to anyone whose read it. But to me it almost feels like a book that (in the middle of a series) doesn't actually do much to advance the plot of the saga's main narrative. It ends up feeling more like a fan service that aims to provide satisfaction by neatly tieing off the story of Leto III. I think it serves as a coda to the first trilogy rather than an integral part of the saga in my opinion. Also, people who think Dune is a tough adaptation to movie have not read God Emporer :)
That art at 4:51 is easily the best depiction of Leto II I've ever seen. I love how this shows the power he possesses. The anatomy is perfect I think, exactly how I pictured his vestigial human body at the head of the worm. Great stuff!
Why picture it that way? The book doesn't say his vestigial body is at the head. It describes in the very beginning how he now has some useless flippers down his worm body in the place that used to be his legs. The book also describes how the mouth (which is a circle, not some petal shape) forms a cowl around his face, large enough to let Siona rest during her drug trip. It's a cool composition, but nothing like the book.
I want to thank you (though I assume you won't see this, months after the video went live) for being so passionate about these books. I got into them because of your videos.
Fascinating. I was not expecting your #1, as I've known people that ditched the series after that one. It has a different writing style than the others. Greatest channel!
I just finished re-reading God Emp. and am in the middle of re-reading Heretics. The sigh of relief escaped me as I relaxed into a book which has an actual plot. Agreed, Messiah is a 'bridge' to get us to Children of Dune; GEoD's "I have been a tyrant so folks will learn to avoid tyrants" is a ponderous slog-- and I've read Heidegger-- it's my 'bridge' to get to 5 and 6.
I discovered tour I first discovered your videos about three months ago. They are terrific, thanks for putting all of the time, effort, and passion for the books into them!
Awesome. That's my exact ranking as well. I listen to the original Dune books on Audible at least once a year. I'm listening to Dune Messiah right now and can't wait to get to God Emperor, by favorite book of all time. But I love them all. Great channel! Keep it up!
YES! Love finding this channel! I remember hating God Emperor as a kid only to have it be my absolute favorite as an adult. Clearly the best book. Frankly my rankings are identical. Great content!
The only ones I pretty much dislike are the Butlerian Jihad ones. The Dune Peequel are ok and Hunters and Sandworms are pretty neat if u can ignore how many Gholas are brought back. There's no need for that many and I think Brian and KJ A would have been better focusing on Kralizec which is what we'd all been waiting for for years!
I just bought Frank Herbert's Dune Saga box set It is super amazing if it wasn't for your channel in your hype for the movie I hype for the movie I wouldn't have bought this box set of three books of Dune thank you so much and I hope your channel get successful👽👾🤖🌌
God Emperor is my favorite because it's the most complete insight into how Leto actually thinks, how he plans, his morality, and the scale of his sacrifice. In the name of humanity's survival, Leto becomes a satanic oppressor to the universe, while secretly being a jesus-like martyr, giving up everything he loves and even his own humanity for that cause.
It's not as epic, but "Behold the Man" by Michael Moorcock explores a person's self-sacrifice to help future generations and establish a very well-known religion. When it was a novella it won the Nebula Award and then Moorcock expanded it to a short, but full-sized novel. Moorcock's overall theme of the multiverse (in other novels) became very influential to science fiction since the early 70's.
FINALLY!!! A Dune book ranking... YUS! I fully agree with your ranking. God Emperor is amazing. Keeping my fingers crossed the new Dune movie will be true to form
Quinn, great job, but I would swap numbers 1 and 2. I have read the original Dune regularly since the summer between my 8th and 9th grades. I spent that summer reading this book three times while listening to Dark Side of the Moon on my headphones. This was 40 years ago. This book captured my imagination and gave me my love of Frank Herbert and his entire library of works. Love your vlogs, buddy, and keep them coming!
I agree that 'God emperor' is a totally unique novel, literally in a league of its own. But the original just pips it to the post for the first place for me, because... well... Dune... I wouldn't make a 'thing' about other people's opinions though because it's a difficult choice, I feel. And obviously subjective. Dune and the lotr 'Canon' are for me, the two 'books' that, in a hundred years, will be seen like dickens and bronte sisters etc. Classics of literature.
Our rankings are exactly the same for largely the same reasons. Thanks for the hard work you put into these videos, You have nice articulate and insightful analysis. Let's hope the movie works! :)
I agree but I'd put children of dune at #5 bumping the others up. Those last two books in the series really surprised me with how much they held my attention and pulled me in deeper even after most of the original characters had faded to legend.
I'm so glad to find out that you ordered them nearly exactly how I would have! The only thing I would have changed is, I think, swapping Dune: Messiah and Children of Dune. But the total certain thing, as you say, for me is God Emporer of Dune being on top.
I'm only in the last 3/4 of Children of Dune. But Messiah has been my favorite so far. My memory isn't the best (it's bad) so it was easier to understand and keep tabs on everything. And it was a really interesting turn in the story.
Thank you for sharing your VAST knowledge and insight here. I've watched a few of your Tubes...the first was the "MOVIE" you made for God Emperor. I was wowed, so impressive. I'm so happy to be here, with Dune. I needed it -- I think this is something the world needed..and I mean that, in reference to the new movie, we needed that, as it's creating a new generation of Dune readers. You're going to be VERY BUSY and VERY IN DEMAND :) Here's how quickly I fell down the rabbit hole, and I doubt I'm alone: I knew about the old Dune movie, remembered my dad watching it when I was little, and there was the "gross guy." End of story. Fast forward a few decades to a couple weeks ago, I click on HBO and see Dune all over the channel, remember hearing something about it being re-made, but yes I'll watch it! Why not? I'm a Star Wars and LOTR nerd, enjoy some sci-fi and fantasy film (mainstream movies...but I'll be spreading my wings going forward), and I like looking at people like this ENTIRE CAST...well, but Thufir, you know what I mean, haha. Beautiful people. Long story short, I loved it. I was in awe with what I saw. Watched it again the next day, watched it again the next day with my son. Went to Amazon and eBay, purchased the first three books (NOT the cheapest books out there right now, if you want HB w/ DJ) but this was after I researched what book was what and where to start, and then purchased the two mini-series sets of Dune and Children of Dune, and purchased...yes...the original film. Watched all of them, and even watched BOTH versions of the original: the Director's cut was so much better than the theatrical release. Point is, I watched both sides of the DVD. I also tried the Jarkowsky DVD, but took it out of the player, went back in THE BOX (of pain it deserved) and it's going back to Amazon...didn't strike my fancy...AT ALL. While I started the films, I started the original book -- I read while listening to the Audible book, and have done so for Messiah and Children, too (mid-way through Children) -- because Audible keeps me focused. After watching your Tube on God Emperor, though, the Children of Dune book is dragging!! No, it's fine, but I can't wait to dig in and keep piecing together what Dune really REALLY is: SPOILER THOUGHTS: after the reading I've done and after watching your God Emperor, think: 1) fremen (free men) are the paradigm of FREE MEN because they don't leave a trace of themselves anywhere -- no footsteps, no satellites -- they can't be found or exploited...it's the spice -- the parasite -- that's left them vulnerable and crippled them, in a sense (meanwhile we voluntarily share our family history online, and banking, everything. We invite ourselves to be hunted). 2) Worms and parasites are the bane of existence; they spread, they sicken...but Leto II has become this "parasite" right, to become the worst of the worst to show us how bad it WILL get, he's the prototype and he lives FOREVER, and he does this so we can LEARN how to save ourselves: keep power in the hands of the people, don't rely on technology -- Admiral Akbar would remind us that the technology "It's a Trap!" He's Jesus-like in that he's taking on the sins of the world and will die for them, right, while also showing that the idea of a Messiah -- a savior -- is dangerous because humanity has to save itself. The fremen have bought into the idea of the savior from the Missionaria Protectiva's doings; their religion, I'm thinking, is sustained by the spice, by the parasite, as it's hallucinogenic. A "liberated" fremen, or man, or PERSON -- in the end -- will know he's only judged by an omnipotent God, not one who intervenes and "saves" because such a person isn't real... My ramblings after peeking into God Emperor, I can't wait to actually read it. The politics, philosophy -- and the THEOLOGY -- is exquisite, layers within layers. I don't think watching your God Emperor will spoil my book at all; sometimes we need to prime ourselves before jumping into something heavy, liked "Homeric" heavy, or else we get overwhelmed and put the book away. I'll be sure to follow your Tubes and thank you again for your time. PS, I've got every book on order now. Credit Card, maxed. Merry Christmas to me!
I was gonna say that as a joke. But I almost agree. It's a difficult book. Dune did what Star Wars was too cowardly to do. To deal with what happens when we become the Empire. I wanted the new Star Wara series to actually be kind of a Russian Revolution allegory...I'm a space Trotskyist.
Extremely good series; I was engaged by the writing style of hearing the characters thoughts through out the first book. I find that a very powerful story telling technique. After finishing the first book, I knew I was going to read the rest of the series (dune1-6) I love the concept of fate/destiny; free will, anticipating the future, concepts, beliefs over time, power. My ranking are: 1.Dune(the one that gets you hooked) 2.God Emperor (the future/self sacrifice) 3.Messiah(a man's fate) 4.Children of Dune(a child's destiny) 5.ChapterHouse(knowing too much/free will) 6.Heretics(beliefs/fate/destiny) Even though Heretics is last after finishing the series I appreciate it much more.
I really feel that Chapterhouse and Heretics should rank higher. They do expand the Tleilaxu and Bene Gesserit universe. Which is so fascinating... to be honest the entire series is about the Bene Gesserit. I agree that God Emperor is definitely at the top of the list.
God Emperor is such an amazing.... thing. You can't really call it a novel. I couldn't see it work on screen, but it amazes me to this day. Great channel!
I don't know where I have been, but holy cow... Other people love God Emperor? It brings me to tears every time i read it. it is my absolute favorite... You are all wondrous people.
I have very fond memories of Messiah, it brought Dune to a whole new dimension for me. From a classic (albeit awesome) fantasy/sf epic to a thought-provoking.. idk, gospel ? Definitely not the right word but still felt appropriate. It made Paul so much more interesting to me. In my top 3 for sure. That being said God Emperor is also my favourite.
I've heard so many different things about God Emperor of Dune. Some, like Quinn say it's great, others say it's boring and much of the book is just about Leto II talking to himself. I might have to check it out some time. I have only read the first 3 books.
Understanding none of the books are bad, I'm surprised by the placement of "Heretics of Dune." It's my personal favorite. I think a lot of it is because of Darwi Odrade. She's probably my favorite character in the entire series. // Something I've always been curious about is why "Dune Messiah" & "Children of Dune" weren't combined & published as one book. I've always looked at them as two halves of a whole & think they stand up better that way as opposed to two books.
I feel like "Messiah" should actually be the closure of the first "Dune" novel, yeah I get it since the first one is already 700+ pages. I understand the concept tho, since it's supposed to be the end of Paul's storyline. It will be a little weird to end Paul's story halfway in and then start a new protagonist.
1) Dune 2) Dune messiah 3) God Emperor of Dune 4)Children of Dune 5)Heretics of Dune 6)Chapterhouse I don't know why, but the last three really seem to drag on for me. I've gone through them all at least twice, but I can barely remember anything from Chapterhouse or Heretics. All I really remember is Duncan being fully reawakened, and Duncan with the honored matre.
Spot on! My only swap would be Quinn’s ranks of 1st and 2nd. To me, the stage set by Dune made every other book better. Regardless of how many thousands of years had passed in the timeline. Ranking aside, I love them all!
Great review. Thank you. By far, God Emperor was the best of all 6 books. When I read it, I was mesmerized by the story. I was so immersed in it that it felt as if I was living in a perpetual dream (a little joke, sorry about that). My order is only slightly different. I liked the last two books more than I did Children of Dune so I would shift children to number 4. I started reading House Atreides and I got bored very early. It just didn't connect with me.
I’ve watched tons of your content, always a pleasure, and for me this short video does not disappoint - I completely agree with your whole list, and *especially* how you feel about God Emperor. I had the same experience.
I rank them in exactly the same order. I was watching wondering if you'd put God Emperor first and you did. This makes me really happy for some reason. Honestly, all of the Herbert Dune books are fantastic, but there is something so different about God Emperor. It is really is due to the main character Leo, like you said unique to fiction. I recommend the Dosadi Experiment and Whipping Star by Herbert as well, if you haven't already read them. A lot of the ideas developed in the Dune books you can see germinating in the earlier books.
Yes!!!!!! Emperor of Dune is by far the best book of the saga. The Depth, how it ties Pauls, Leto, and Duncan´s paths, and the way it unfolds the oracular vision into the millenia to come. Only if there was a 7th book to wrap it all up........................
GEoD! Man just want you to know that it was your breakdown video of GEoD that got me to read the Dune series, and man what a ride! Dune was a great book and the next two weren't bad, I just knew I could not wait to get to the God Emperor and it did not disappoint. So good!
After reading Heretics of Dune I began to wonder just how close someone could get to becoming and actual Bene Gesserit. Obviously, the spice agony and shared memories is fiction, but one could train themselves in observation, psychology, religion, manipulation, seduction, emotional discipline, martial arts, and meditation. I’ve found at least one “manual” that outlines some Bene Gesserit training .
All the physical enhancement stuff is complete mumbo jumbo, but micro expression reading is a real thing and it's really creepy when people get good at it.
I've read Dune and Dune Messiah, starting Children of Dune after a cup of tea. I really enjoyed Dune Messiah, absolutely captivating especially the final 50 pages they were mesmerising.
Just started reading the franchise recently and finished up Dune Messiah yesterday which I really enjoyed. If you have that at 6, I can't wait for what's next!
I've only read 1 and 2 and about 1/3 of #3. Unlike Quinn, I didn't like the 1st Dune upon my 1st read, but I gave it another chance and fell in love. Now I've read it through 4 times and am still learning how great it is!
Dune Messiah is my favorite Dune book because of this quote:
"To endure oneself may be the hardest task in the universe. You cannot hire a wise man or any other intellect to solve it for you. There's no writ of inquest or calling of witness to provide answers. No servant or disciple can dress the wound. You dress it yourself or continue bleeding for all to see."
I think it's underrated. There are so many of examples of these brilliant singular moments it's overwhelming. I have more highlights in Messiah than any other
I didn't really like dune Messiah right until the end, but the quotes were really good.
"The convoluted wording of legalisms grew up around the necessity to hide from ourselves the violence we intend towards each other. Between depriving a man of one hour from his life and depriving him of his life there exists only a difference of degree. You have done violence to him, consumed his energy. Elaborate euphemisms may conceal your intent to kill, but behind any use of power over another the ultimate assumption remains: 'I feed on your energy.'"
Quote sounds more profound than it really is. Ppl hire psychologists, therapists, psychics, bartenders, drug dealers, and all the like all the time. Humans and their problems don’t exist in a vacuum. In Asimov’s The Foundation, he explores the masses as a symptom to legends rather than the individual. Dune, in my mind, accomplishes the same thing unintentionally because Herbert focused more on the individual and the masses like characters they can relate to.
@@Alex-oy6wb You can hire a therapist or a psychiatrist, they can tell you what to do, but it’s still your responsibility to follow whatever advice they give.
@@gdhuertas07 words like responsibility, duty, and obligations are just mechanisms of influence and control.
Look at Quinn with his huge smile as he shows off his first editions :D
Yes! His eyes are gloving! Amazing
My daughter got my dune Messiah first edition first impression. And ripped the cover. I was very unhappy.
Has he confirmed that they are legit first ed. or Book club editions?
@@metawakening6233 surely you replaced her eyes with ixian metal eyes and felled her with your gomjabar prior to feeding her to the worms, yes yes?
@Ta I'm just saying the child should've had 3 terror legions released on her to motivate her to.....repent...for her actions. A real kwitzack hadderak would do the same.
I've only read the first 3, and for me Messiah might actually be my favorite. When I first read it as a teenager I was blown away by how it yanks the rug out from under the expectations and tropes of the genre.
Messiah was indeed my favorite as well!... It's like the rose colored glasses were finally pulled away from my empty eye sockets! 😎
Couldn't agree more. Struggled to relate to Paul in the first one (too perfect) and I found his fall and the conspiracy against him super compelling.
Glad to see some folks who (like me) love #2 the best. As rich and thoughtful as all of his books are (e.g. "key logs and dependencies!"), I absolutely loved the tension of what I feel is his best-paced, pure page-turner of a book. It also has two of the most memorably awesome scenes I've ever read anywhere, about 50 pages apart: the moment Hayt becomes Duncan and the knife throw using borrowed sight.
I'm a male of almost 60 years and just reread the books. I figured out early on in reading Messiah what the "problem" was: it's not a book that's going to appeal to young men. Just as the Kwisatz Hadarach is able to see into the "male" dark place opaque to the the Bene Gesserit, this book is decidedly more "feminine." It is Yin to Dune's Yang. I enjoyed it immensely for that reason alone. I think once you get that, you could argue that Messiah was even more groundbreaking than the first book.
@@johnjamesbaldridge867 Man of 30 here: I was drawn in by the first chapter of Messiah but found the constant visions and dialogue and philosophizing so boring that by the halfway mark I was skimming and by the end I barely knew what was going on. You've encouraged me to re-read it when I finish the series. Thanks.
I like to believe Dune is real, a real and accurate historical masterpiece that was sent back to us through a time loop to educate and warn humanity of our undeniable future!!
warn us? if we get to that universe, rather than just crashing and burning as we destroy the planet, we'll be doing rather well, I'd say
@@karlgw We still have to live through the rise of thinking machines, so looks like we got the short end of the stick.
@@jaakaart "it is said"? 😂
I believe Dune is prophetic. It's a possible future, if we manage to destroy our advanced AI before it becomes undefeatable.
I do consider the Dune saga to be some sort of Bible, with stories and lessons.
Limited edition hardcover of dune?
I see you're a man of culture as well.
That's the edition I have as well
Dark Empire Profile Pic?
@@jordanthomas7798 oh yeah. Dark empire is very under rated in my opinion.
@@ShadowHand. I see you're a man of culture as well
Thats limited edition? I see that book everywhere.
This is so interesting! Messiah is actually one of my favorites. I find the tension between Paul's love for Chani and his desperate sadness over the path he must take to be extremely moving, and by the end of it, I was emotionally wrecked. I suppose, in that way, it has some similarities to God Emperor, but for some reason I find it more romantic (although the end of God Emperor is something truly unforgettable).
Even before reading the first book of Dune I had heard about Leto Atreides the II, The god emperor, the great worm. I was so intrigued by his figure that I run through the first three books (enjoying every Page) Just to get to the god emperor. And when i Read it.... Jesus what a novel, what a masterpiece. It was like reading a Shakesperian play, an antropology and filosofical issue, with the scope and influence of an epic poem, all of that set in a extraordinary and complex space opera setting. All of that added to Leto himself, what a fascinating, beatiful and bizzare character. When i finished it, I felt like very well the huge scope and ambition of Herbert's work. Great video, the only thing I disagree its with Dune Messiah which would be my third Favorite. Thanks for reading!
I experienced the same before Reading Dune for the first time.
Same... I almost want to believe GEoD is the original and then the others are prequels/sequels haha!
Lol then I love the sequel, Heretics is my fav!
Wow. I read these books over 17 years ago. I just now realize God Emperor of Dune impacted many people like it impacted me.
I thought it was interesting.
I was in jail when I read them. Went from Dune to God Emperor. It was fun and kind of confusing
@@ffxiarcadius you were in what?
I love it that you picked God Emperor of Dune and was pleasantly surprised! This is my all time fave And have read it multiple times. It’s also my son’s favorite. I love how Leto II is nearly invulnerable and is aware of every scheme against him but chooses how and when his reign will end.
omg I was so excited to realize we have the EXACT same ranking! I've been debating with other people for years about how God Emperor is the best in the series. Everybody argues with me that it's just Leto talking the whole time but it's in this book that you realize just how complex Leto's character is. It's in this book that you truly compehend the immense scale of the Golden Path and how Leto submitted himself and humanity to centuries of suffering to actually save the human race. It's a deep plot never equalled in sci-fi to this day IMO.
After being transformed by this book and by the entire series it is impossible to be a Star Wars fanatic. If you get it you GET it.
Do you really need to convince people?
@@zannaifacedancer5915 some people don't like the lack of action and the philosophical nature of the book. I get it. It can be a bit of a snooze fest at times but it's worth it in the end.
Sorry if I've been rude. I've read God Emperor several times because I love it, with its philosophical nature. In fact it's my second fav. But for some reasons, Heretics will always be my favorite.
"not equalled in sci-fi to this day" Have you read of The Book of the New Sun? God Emperor is my second favorite of all time and we've all mentioned why it's great, but The Book of the New Sun is unmatched in how dense of a novel it is. It has a lot of parallels to God Emperor.
Yeah, pretty much. 1 and 2 are interchangeable to me. God Emperor of Dune does one of the ballsiest moves in a series ever. "Dune" is a classic and is probably my #1.
"Moneo, what a rogue; what a charming rogue."
- Leto II
In that specific line Leto was referring to Malky, not Moneo
I had forgotten that line, but it seemed weird lol.
I was genuinely surprised by the choices for #2 and #1, but I can see why. It's remarkable how Frank Herbert writes stories with characters that are superhuman in many ways, but ultimately relatable and surprisingly convincing. God Emperor stretches that to its very limit to make profound philosophical points and paint an incredible canvas. But, Dune's characters are the most vibrantly, tragically, lovingly human. It's subjective, which kind of story you like best.
nice one!
about dune messiah though, I believe it has one of the best scenes I've ever read: quick hint (and spoil!), paul uses prana bindu technics to rebalance, via observing himself remotely via Leto II sight. That finale was awesome!
That scene is awesome! That it is Leto II's introduction also.
Awesome part of the book, yes.
Would love to watch that scene on big screen.
The scene where he sees through his son’s eyes, even after he lost his sight AND his prescience?
@@stephenking5852 after 4 years! But it seems it is going to happen ... Still some perseverance, but we did good so far
I'm not sure why God Emperor is my favorite of the series. Maybe it's the sweeping scope. Maybe it's the depth of Herbert's imagination brought to such vivid life. Or maybe it's because Leto II agrees with me that Duncan Idaho is the greatest character in the universe.
My all time favorite series. Don't know that I could rank them, because they all have their own merit. Glad you're back, keep the videos coming.
From what I’ve read of the Dune books so far, I still have less than 200 pages left of God Emperor... and loving it!
My personal favorite is still Dune Messiah, then Dune. Children of Dune. God Emperor.
I’m hoping these last hundred pages will change my mind and make God Emperor my number one.
Also, just want to say, thanks so much for getting me into these books with your videos. Dune has become my favorite series to date.
I didn't like that one much but the ending was perfect.
Chandler, I am right there with you on this. I'm halfway through God Emperor and find it hard to read at the same quick pace that I was with the first three. The jump in time and structure has thrown me for a loop that was much unexpected.
so have you finished reading god emperor now? whats your verdict?
@@hollowsoul666 I just finished Emperor yesterday and I'm currently sitting with Messiah then GEoD (and Dune & Children are kinda interchangeable for me).
I LOVED how much of a scalpel Messiah is in cutting down any heroism in the leader (the Stoneburner scene!) and the fact that GEoD drags a bit in the middle.
I understand the point is to emulate Leto's Peace in the reader to set them up for a grand new adventure/trilogy, buuuuuuuut perhaps we could've stood to lose/condense 1 or 2 'Leto pontificates to someone about how they don't understand a thing' scenes?
Maybe swap that for a chapter or 2 of Siona doing a thing that gave her more of a character?
But still excited to go back and re-read the series once I'm through Heretics & Chapterhouse
Haha 200 pages left, I saw what you did there
You know, there’s something wholesome seeing someone smiling showing off a book they like. Wise enough to know the learning never stops, smart enough to enjoy it. My wife’s an English teacher and thats her favorite kind of student. But she only gets a kid or two every year that even cares to read book thoroughly
If there must be a ranking, this is an excellent one. God Emperor is among my favorite books, fiction or non. IMO it’s also the most dependent on its predecessors due to its philosophical, dialogue-heavy nature. But what a treasure once you’ve read the 1st three!
Dune Messiah, or something much like it, was actually a part of the original Dune manuscript. The manuscript was later split into two parts, at an editor’s recommendation if I remember right, with the split happening just after a triumphal moment such that the editor probably thought it would lead to greater sales. When I last read Dune I went straight into Messiah as though just starting another chapter. Try it!
I was blown away by Dune. The first chapter of Messiah was strong, but by the end I was so bored I had lost the plot entirely. These rankings give me hope. Thanks.
Ngl if you got bored by messiah u probably will enjoy children but not the others
Each book after Children of Dune gets slower than the last. The last was a struggle for me and I flew through the first three.
I'm glad I watched this. I'm currently reading Messiah for the 1st time, and it's such a step down from Dune I was unsure whether to carry on or not. I think I will now.
The Dune movie song you used is soooooo good it was worth making the old movie just so it could exist.
I agree, that song is probably the best part of the movie.
Overall that Toto soundtrack is the best thing that has happened to the franchise since its inception.
The soundtrack, the costumes, the sets and the VFX of Dune 1984 are all fantastic. Pity the actual movie is a bit on incoherent mess.
What's the song actually called?
Completely agree with this list.
? Really?
@@cjhepburn7406 what can I say God Emperor was my favorite (w/ the exception if the Ducan Idaho gholas, could've brought back anyone more interesting). Granted I like the characters of the 1st book and it is the story that drew me into the series, the God Emperor gives a compelling narrative that seems to mirror the real world.
How...can u not like a Duncan? Glad u like and it's top of the list. Just hoping new director can make it to book 4. We'll see. Lol.
@@cjhepburn7406 I don't dislike Duncan I just don't see the need for him to be ghola'd 4x 😉
@@trfaison Only 4x? Wait til u get to Sandworms...
because of you i started to read dune series .
Is it worth it?
@@lifegoeson1007 It is definitely a great book series! Sure, it's difficult to keep up with the reading, but journey was well worth it! If it takes a while for you to read, then I recommend audiobooks!
toh786 ok, yeah because I saw that there are 8 books 😬 but, if the reading is entertaining and interesting enough then audiobooks should workout. I might at least try with the first book and see how it goes, thank you 😄
@@lifegoeson1007 From the top of my head, it goes like this chronologically, with some spoilers:
Legends of Dune Trilogy (Bulterian Jihad, The Machine Crusade and Battle of Corrin) - Mankind's battle against artificial intelligence. If you like Terminator or Battlestar Galactica, I recommend it!
Schools of Dune Trilogy (Sisterhood of Dune, Mentats of Dune and Navigators of Dune) - Based 80 years after the end of the previous trilogy. Talks about the gradual shift from technology towards human psychic abilities and the establishments of special training specialisied individuals which become mainstream by the beginning of the original novel.
Prelude to Dune trilogy (House: Atreides, House: Harkonnen and House: Corrino) - Takes place a generation before the original novel and provides an interesting backstory!
Original Dune - House Atreides VS House Harkonnen.
Paul of Dune - 7 years later into the intergalactic jihad and flash backs.
Dune Messiah - 7 years later. Paul's rule is supreme.
Winds of Dune - Alia Atreides attempts to rule Arrakis and the known universe during Paul's absence.
Children of Dune - Paul Atreides's children take focal point.
God Emperor of Dune - 3500 years later. Totally different characters, with two familiar ones...
Heretics of Dune - 1500 years later after the end of a tyrannical rule. People return from the scattering.
Chapterhouse of Dune - Immediately starts afterwards (ish). Sisterhood is in hiding and is fighting the Honoured Matres.
Hunters of Dune & Sandworms of Dune - Haven't read these two, but I believe I know the gist of the story... Concludes the entire saga. I think these two would make more sense if you read the first two prequel trilogies...
toh786 thank you very much, I do like the Terminator so, I might like the first one for sure. The rest sound interesting too, I’m going to keep note of this 😃.
Edit: the second one of makes me think of what they’re trying to do with us, with the chip implants 🤔
amen brother. I was so horrified that Good Emperor would be near the bottom of the list but jumped for joy to see you also loved this amazing book. I have read that one book over 10 times now and I still feel I am only scratching the surface, there is just so much to think about in that story. Bravo!
I didn't realize people were requesting this, but I think it's cool to get your perspective. I'd personally love to hear your opinions and rankings on the Brian/Kevin novels too.
Same here!
You are a BRAVE man taking on a task like this. I like that you pulled out God Emperor and Chapter House and they had the same covers as mine. I bought those as soon as they went on sale.
Heretics & Chapterhouse have always been my favourites.
Im kind of surprised to see God Emporer as many peoples no.1. It certainly stands out in the series for reasons obvious to anyone whose read it. But to me it almost feels like a book that (in the middle of a series) doesn't actually do much to advance the plot of the saga's main narrative. It ends up feeling more like a fan service that aims to provide satisfaction by neatly tieing off the story of Leto III.
I think it serves as a coda to the first trilogy rather than an integral part of the saga in my opinion.
Also, people who think Dune is a tough adaptation to movie have not read God Emporer :)
That art at 4:51 is easily the best depiction of Leto II I've ever seen. I love how this shows the power he possesses. The anatomy is perfect I think, exactly how I pictured his vestigial human body at the head of the worm. Great stuff!
Why picture it that way? The book doesn't say his vestigial body is at the head. It describes in the very beginning how he now has some useless flippers down his worm body in the place that used to be his legs.
The book also describes how the mouth (which is a circle, not some petal shape) forms a cowl around his face, large enough to let Siona rest during her drug trip.
It's a cool composition, but nothing like the book.
I want to thank you (though I assume you won't see this, months after the video went live) for being so passionate about these books. I got into them because of your videos.
I completely agree with the ranking. God Emperor of Dune is such a masterpiece.
Fascinating. I was not expecting your #1, as I've known people that ditched the series after that one. It has a different writing style than the others. Greatest channel!
Ditch it after GEoD...weak minded fools!
They desperately need a messiah to find meaning in their lives.
THANK YOU! God Emperor is my favorite as well. It’s what really makes this series of books my favorite.
I am impressed. My list of preference are the same! God Emperor of Dune is so awesome, I hope one day to have a series or maybe 2 films to cover it.
I just finished re-reading God Emp. and am in the middle of re-reading Heretics. The sigh of relief escaped me as I relaxed into a book which has an actual plot. Agreed, Messiah is a 'bridge' to get us to Children of Dune; GEoD's "I have been a tyrant so folks will learn to avoid tyrants" is a ponderous slog-- and I've read Heidegger-- it's my 'bridge' to get to 5 and 6.
I discovered tour
I first discovered your videos about three months ago. They are terrific, thanks for putting all of the time, effort, and passion for the books into them!
Awesome. That's my exact ranking as well. I listen to the original Dune books on Audible at least once a year. I'm listening to Dune Messiah right now and can't wait to get to God Emperor, by favorite book of all time. But I love them all. Great channel! Keep it up!
Messiah became my least favorite when I read it, but ironically the audiobook seems the best of the series!
YES! Love finding this channel! I remember hating God Emperor as a kid only to have it be my absolute favorite as an adult. Clearly the best book. Frankly my rankings are identical. Great content!
I'm with you 100% on your order! Tough choices, man. I'm in the middle of Heretics right now for probably my 5th reading of the whole series.
Yup, pretty much a spot on ranking. I haven’t ready Brian Herbert’s books so I’m curious to see your take on them.
The only ones I pretty much dislike are the Butlerian Jihad ones. The Dune Peequel are ok and Hunters and Sandworms are pretty neat if u can ignore how many Gholas are brought back. There's no need for that many and I think Brian and KJ A would have been better focusing on Kralizec which is what we'd all been waiting for for years!
I just bought
Frank Herbert's Dune Saga box set
It is super amazing if it wasn't for your channel in your hype for the movie I hype for the movie I wouldn't have bought this box set of three books of Dune thank you so much and I hope your channel get successful👽👾🤖🌌
Thank you for introducing and helping me understand dune. I'm working my way through the other books.
Totally agree on picks 1 & 2 ..the others..well like you said a matter of interpretation.. Great video either way!
I'm with you on God-Emperor for #1. Incredible book. There's never been dialogue this deep.
Dune, children of Dune and God Emperor of Dune! God Emperor is probably my fav too.
You should do videos on the different factions in fantasy stores and their lore and motives. Would be pretty cool and has tons of potential.
I see, that among with others, we got the same ranking!
Also, why have I discovered your channel just now?! Subscribed!
I love how cool and positive your channel and community is.
Keep up the great work 💕
God Emperor is my favorite book of fiction. Not enough stories have a protagonist who chooses to suffer for others.
God Emperor is my favorite because it's the most complete insight into how Leto actually thinks, how he plans, his morality, and the scale of his sacrifice. In the name of humanity's survival, Leto becomes a satanic oppressor to the universe, while secretly being a jesus-like martyr, giving up everything he loves and even his own humanity for that cause.
Basic Jesus myth stuff.
It's not as epic, but "Behold the Man" by Michael Moorcock explores a person's self-sacrifice to help future generations and establish a very well-known religion. When it was a novella it won the Nebula Award and then Moorcock expanded it to a short, but full-sized novel. Moorcock's overall theme of the multiverse (in other novels) became very influential to science fiction since the early 70's.
@@ronbo11 It has a wonderful creative plot, but would be difficult to read for a believer like myself.
@@ronbo11 I read that book decades ago and it has stuck with me.
FINALLY!!! A Dune book ranking... YUS! I fully agree with your ranking. God Emperor is amazing. Keeping my fingers crossed the new Dune movie will be true to form
Quinn, great job, but I would swap numbers 1 and 2. I have read the original Dune regularly since the summer between my 8th and 9th grades. I spent that summer reading this book three times while listening to Dark Side of the Moon on my headphones. This was 40 years ago. This book captured my imagination and gave me my love of Frank Herbert and his entire library of works. Love your vlogs, buddy, and keep them coming!
I agree that 'God emperor' is a totally unique novel, literally in a league of its own. But the original just pips it to the post for the first place for me, because... well... Dune...
I wouldn't make a 'thing' about other people's opinions though because it's a difficult choice, I feel. And obviously subjective.
Dune and the lotr 'Canon' are for me, the two 'books' that, in a hundred years, will be seen like dickens and bronte sisters etc. Classics of literature.
Our rankings are exactly the same for largely the same reasons. Thanks for the hard work you put into these videos, You have nice articulate and insightful analysis. Let's hope the movie works! :)
I agree but I'd put children of dune at #5 bumping the others up. Those last two books in the series really surprised me with how much they held my attention and pulled me in deeper even after most of the original characters had faded to legend.
Fr book 5 and 6 were the best by far, never have been taken that hard by a book
Just started reading Dune, mostly due to your channel!
I'm so glad to find out that you ordered them nearly exactly how I would have! The only thing I would have changed is, I think, swapping Dune: Messiah and Children of Dune. But the total certain thing, as you say, for me is God Emporer of Dune being on top.
I'm only in the last 3/4 of Children of Dune. But Messiah has been my favorite so far. My memory isn't the best (it's bad) so it was easier to understand and keep tabs on everything. And it was a really interesting turn in the story.
I haven't read the books but after listening to you I knew exaclty what your list would be before you even started ranking :D
Yeah, I knew that God Emperor was definitely his favorite xD.
Thank you for sharing your VAST knowledge and insight here. I've watched a few of your Tubes...the first was the "MOVIE" you made for God Emperor. I was wowed, so impressive. I'm so happy to be here, with Dune. I needed it -- I think this is something the world needed..and I mean that, in reference to the new movie, we needed that, as it's creating a new generation of Dune readers. You're going to be VERY BUSY and VERY IN DEMAND :)
Here's how quickly I fell down the rabbit hole, and I doubt I'm alone: I knew about the old Dune movie, remembered my dad watching it when I was little, and there was the "gross guy." End of story. Fast forward a few decades to a couple weeks ago, I click on HBO and see Dune all over the channel, remember hearing something about it being re-made, but yes I'll watch it! Why not? I'm a Star Wars and LOTR nerd, enjoy some sci-fi and fantasy film (mainstream movies...but I'll be spreading my wings going forward), and I like looking at people like this ENTIRE CAST...well, but Thufir, you know what I mean, haha. Beautiful people. Long story short, I loved it. I was in awe with what I saw. Watched it again the next day, watched it again the next day with my son. Went to Amazon and eBay, purchased the first three books (NOT the cheapest books out there right now, if you want HB w/ DJ) but this was after I researched what book was what and where to start, and then purchased the two mini-series sets of Dune and Children of Dune, and purchased...yes...the original film. Watched all of them, and even watched BOTH versions of the original: the Director's cut was so much better than the theatrical release. Point is, I watched both sides of the DVD. I also tried the Jarkowsky DVD, but took it out of the player, went back in THE BOX (of pain it deserved) and it's going back to Amazon...didn't strike my fancy...AT ALL.
While I started the films, I started the original book -- I read while listening to the Audible book, and have done so for Messiah and Children, too (mid-way through Children) -- because Audible keeps me focused. After watching your Tube on God Emperor, though, the Children of Dune book is dragging!! No, it's fine, but I can't wait to dig in and keep piecing together what Dune really REALLY is:
SPOILER THOUGHTS:
after the reading I've done and after watching your God Emperor, think: 1) fremen (free men) are the paradigm of FREE MEN because they don't leave a trace of themselves anywhere -- no footsteps, no satellites -- they can't be found or exploited...it's the spice -- the parasite -- that's left them vulnerable and crippled them, in a sense (meanwhile we voluntarily share our family history online, and banking, everything. We invite ourselves to be hunted). 2) Worms and parasites are the bane of existence; they spread, they sicken...but Leto II has become this "parasite" right, to become the worst of the worst to show us how bad it WILL get, he's the prototype and he lives FOREVER, and he does this so we can LEARN how to save ourselves: keep power in the hands of the people, don't rely on technology -- Admiral Akbar would remind us that the technology "It's a Trap!" He's Jesus-like in that he's taking on the sins of the world and will die for them, right, while also showing that the idea of a Messiah -- a savior -- is dangerous because humanity has to save itself. The fremen have bought into the idea of the savior from the Missionaria Protectiva's doings; their religion, I'm thinking, is sustained by the spice, by the parasite, as it's hallucinogenic. A "liberated" fremen, or man, or PERSON -- in the end -- will know he's only judged by an omnipotent God, not one who intervenes and "saves" because such a person isn't real...
My ramblings after peeking into God Emperor, I can't wait to actually read it. The politics, philosophy -- and the THEOLOGY -- is exquisite, layers within layers. I don't think watching your God Emperor will spoil my book at all; sometimes we need to prime ourselves before jumping into something heavy, liked "Homeric" heavy, or else we get overwhelmed and put the book away. I'll be sure to follow your Tubes and thank you again for your time. PS, I've got every book on order now. Credit Card, maxed. Merry Christmas to me!
Personal favourite: Dune Messiah
I was gonna say that as a joke. But I almost agree. It's a difficult book. Dune did what Star Wars was too cowardly to do. To deal with what happens when we become the Empire. I wanted the new Star Wara series to actually be kind of a Russian Revolution allegory...I'm a space Trotskyist.
Thank you so much for introducing me to these books. 🥰💋
Extremely good series; I was engaged by the writing style of hearing the characters thoughts through out the first book. I find that a very powerful story telling technique. After finishing the first book, I knew I was going to read the rest of the series (dune1-6) I love the concept of fate/destiny; free will, anticipating the future, concepts, beliefs over time, power.
My ranking are:
1.Dune(the one that gets you hooked)
2.God Emperor (the future/self sacrifice)
3.Messiah(a man's fate)
4.Children of Dune(a child's destiny)
5.ChapterHouse(knowing too much/free will)
6.Heretics(beliefs/fate/destiny)
Even though Heretics is last after finishing the series I appreciate it much more.
I really feel that Chapterhouse and Heretics should rank higher. They do expand the Tleilaxu and Bene Gesserit universe. Which is so fascinating... to be honest the entire series is about the Bene Gesserit. I agree that God Emperor is definitely at the top of the list.
This is true. Once you have read the whole series it is evident that the BG are at the centre of it.
You put God Emperor where it belongs. I immediately read it a second time after finishing it.
Chapter House Dune.
Love that book...
Moving boats rock, my favorite quote.
Welcome back bro!!!!
"I tell you he kills no one!"
"They are two separate beings - Leto the Emperor and _The Worm Who is God_ "
I think my only change would be moving heritics up a spot or 2. Great video.
God Emperor is such an amazing.... thing. You can't really call it a novel. I couldn't see it work on screen, but it amazes me to this day.
Great channel!
I don't know where I have been, but holy cow... Other people love God Emperor? It brings me to tears every time i read it. it is my absolute favorite... You are all wondrous people.
On my 11th re-read of Dune. This book just makes my whole month joyful. Nice video, you have a great understanding of the books. Love your opinions
You got the order spot on Quinn!
I have very fond memories of Messiah, it brought Dune to a whole new dimension for me. From a classic (albeit awesome) fantasy/sf epic to a thought-provoking.. idk, gospel ? Definitely not the right word but still felt appropriate. It made Paul so much more interesting to me. In my top 3 for sure.
That being said God Emperor is also my favourite.
I've heard so many different things about God Emperor of Dune. Some, like Quinn say it's great, others say it's boring and much of the book is just about Leto II talking to himself. I might have to check it out some time. I have only read the first 3 books.
Hard choice.... for me it's 1, 3, 5. ETA: Love your content, Man! Keep it up!!!!!
Understanding none of the books are bad, I'm surprised by the placement of "Heretics of Dune." It's my personal favorite. I think a lot of it is because of Darwi Odrade. She's probably my favorite character in the entire series. // Something I've always been curious about is why "Dune Messiah" & "Children of Dune" weren't combined & published as one book. I've always looked at them as two halves of a whole & think they stand up better that way as opposed to two books.
I feel like "Messiah" should actually be the closure of the first "Dune" novel, yeah I get it since the first
one is already 700+ pages. I understand the concept tho, since it's supposed to be the end of Paul's storyline.
It will be a little weird to end Paul's story halfway in and then start a new protagonist.
1) Dune
2) Dune messiah
3) God Emperor of Dune
4)Children of Dune
5)Heretics of Dune
6)Chapterhouse
I don't know why, but the last three really seem to drag on for me. I've gone through them all at least twice, but I can barely remember anything from Chapterhouse or Heretics. All I really remember is Duncan being fully reawakened, and Duncan with the honored matre.
And now I've got to go back and re-read the original books!
Spot on! My only swap would be Quinn’s ranks of 1st and 2nd. To me, the stage set by Dune made every other book better. Regardless of how many thousands of years had passed in the timeline. Ranking aside, I love them all!
Agreed with this list so much I finally remembered to subscribe.
Great review. Thank you. By far, God Emperor was the best of all 6 books. When I read it, I was mesmerized by the story. I was so immersed in it that it felt as if I was living in a perpetual dream (a little joke, sorry about that). My order is only slightly different. I liked the last two books more than I did Children of Dune so I would shift children to number 4.
I started reading House Atreides and I got bored very early. It just didn't connect with me.
I quickly ranked them in my head before watching this... no joke, exact same ranking! God Emperor is so good, I feel the same way! Well done!
I’ve watched tons of your content, always a pleasure, and for me this short video does not disappoint - I completely agree with your whole list, and *especially* how you feel about God Emperor. I had the same experience.
Thank you. I feel the same way. You spoke eloquently what I was uncertain how to say. This video has made you in my top ten channels to watch
I can't pick a favorite from these six because I love them all. Had to even order the Encyclopedia too after I finished these.
I totally agree with your top two and the bottom one. I wonder if a good film version of God Emperor would ever be possible and ever happen?
I liked the children of dune even more than the first book
I rank them in exactly the same order. I was watching wondering if you'd put God Emperor first and you did. This makes me really happy for some reason. Honestly, all of the Herbert Dune books are fantastic, but there is something so different about God Emperor. It is really is due to the main character Leo, like you said unique to fiction.
I recommend the Dosadi Experiment and Whipping Star by Herbert as well, if you haven't already read them. A lot of the ideas developed in the Dune books you can see germinating in the earlier books.
Yes!!!!!! Emperor of Dune is by far the best book of the saga. The Depth, how it ties Pauls, Leto, and Duncan´s paths, and the way it unfolds the oracular vision into the millenia to come.
Only if there was a 7th book to wrap it all up........................
This video has enraptured me, and is my inspiration to start reading the dune series! Thanks Quinn.
I just finished God Emperor. I’ve loved all the books so far but Messiah remains my favorite. I started them because of your channel so thank you!
Same. Messiah is my fav, too.
GEoD! Man just want you to know that it was your breakdown video of GEoD that got me to read the Dune series, and man what a ride! Dune was a great book and the next two weren't bad, I just knew I could not wait to get to the God Emperor and it did not disappoint. So good!
After reading Heretics of Dune I began to wonder just how close someone could get to becoming and actual Bene Gesserit. Obviously, the spice agony and shared memories is fiction, but one could train themselves in observation, psychology, religion, manipulation, seduction, emotional discipline, martial arts, and meditation. I’ve found at least one “manual” that outlines some Bene Gesserit training .
Well, they're based on the jesuits, so there's a possibility to a Bene Gesserit Sisterhood analog in reality.
All the physical enhancement stuff is complete mumbo jumbo, but micro expression reading is a real thing and it's really creepy when people get good at it.
Don't forget marketing and PR.
Those hardcover editions are cleaner than Herbert's prose.
shaaddup
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@@rullmourn1142 Huh?
I've read Dune and Dune Messiah, starting Children of Dune after a cup of tea.
I really enjoyed Dune Messiah, absolutely captivating especially the final 50 pages they were mesmerising.
GEoD is undeniably the best of the series
Just started reading the franchise recently and finished up Dune Messiah yesterday which I really enjoyed. If you have that at 6, I can't wait for what's next!
Wowie, I was surprised by where you put Messiah. I adore that step in the story.
Been watching these videos for ages - you've finally convinced me to give DUNE a go. lol
I've only read 1 and 2 and about 1/3 of #3. Unlike Quinn, I didn't like the 1st Dune upon my 1st read, but I gave it another chance and fell in love. Now I've read it through 4 times and am still learning how great it is!