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Language And Linguistics In Frank Herbert's DuneFrank Herbert's novel Dune incorporates a number of different themes related to language or linguistics. This is consistent with a broader theme of these novels, specifically, the nearly limitless power inherent in the human mind and body, and the power of training and discipline to enhance both physical and mental performance. Accordingly, heightened language skill and linguistic power are among the traits explored by Herbert in his works. Superhuman Vocal Abilities - One of the most prominent examples of an enhanced vocal power is the use of Voice by the Bene Gesserit. By studying a subject and calculating the appropriate pitch and tone, a skilled speaker can use words to exert influence over listeners, both as a subtle influence on their thoughts (perhaps analagous to subliminal advertising, hypnotic suggestion, or mind control) or in extreme circumstances, causing the targets to take physical actions, possibly exploiting neural reflexes.
- Bene Gesserit adepts are able to learn and comprehend new languages at a superhuman rate, by listening to snatches of conversation. During the siege of Arrakis, Jessica Atreides hears Harkonnen code over the radio, but "not enough to register the language."
- At a dinner party on Arrakis, Jessica is able to discern a speaker's cultural origin and education by noticing their speaking cadence and pacing, rather than a specific regional accent. She has the ability to hear vocal patterns that to the speaker are a subconscious part of their training and upbringing, even when they are attempting to conceal these origins.
Neolanguages in the Dune Universe Herbert's attention to linguistic detail in his use of fictional languages with real-world roots as well as others that are purely fictional has invited comparisons to other famous fictional works using created languages, especially J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings saga. - Jessica Atreides and the Fremen Shadout Mapes discuss Jessica's knowledge of the "Bhotani Jib," a "hunting language," suggesting a world in which languages have evolved for specific purposes. In a similar episode, Jessica's exposure to what she describes as the "violence" of the Fremen Chakobsa tongue causes her to infer that the Fremen culture is even more fiercely violent than is commonly suspected. This is an example of linguistic determinism and is explored by the Sapir-Whorf hypothesis.
- Much of the common Fremen language is derived from modern Arabic words.
- Count Hasimir Fenring and Lady Margot Fenring appear to have developed a private language that is based on humming.
*Later in the series, the Bene Tleilax are shown to have developed a language based on whistling.
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