Female characters of F. Herbert’s novel “Dune” and their modern D. Villeneuve’s screen counterparts: A comparative analysis

The aim of this research is to discover the peculiarities of the feminine world in F. Herbert’s 1965 novel “Dune”. The paper presents a comparative analysis of four female characters, i.e. Lady Jessica, the Reverend Mother Gauis Helen Mohiam, the Princess Irulan and Chani with their modern representation in the latest Denis Villeneuve’s screen adaptations “Dune: Part One” released in 2021 and “Dune: Part Two” released in 2024. The article tackles historical and social prerequisites for the creation of the feminine world of the novel, general tendencies to present women in science fiction and their screen adaptations, and unique traits of the women of “Dune”. The research is scientifically relevant due to its pioneer comparison of the original version of “Dune” female characters with their modern counterparts shaped by the tendencies and values of modern society – by gender equality and feminism. As a result, it is discovered that certain women in “Dune” manage to stay influential when Imperium government is concerned, despite feudal regime and patriarchic values. The modern screen adaptation shows the women to be freer in speaking their mind and in actions, more independent from the society, which is caused by the demand of the viewers.