Resizing ancient and contemporary heroism in herbert´s dune: Paul atreides as a heroic figure

Abstract

Heroism is a fundamental element for the creation of all sorts of narratives, as such novels, plays, comics or graphic novels. Besides, Heroism has evolved over time, preserving certain classic features but also including some innovations. In thisFinal Degree Project I will analyze how the hero Paul Atreides, protagonist of Frank Herbert’s Science Fiction novel Dune (1965), might be able to perpetuate both the classical and contemporary canon of Heroism. For such purpose I will research the origins of Science Fiction and its connection with Classical Reception Studies. Likewise, I will develop two analyses in which Paul Atreides will be compared, on the one hand, with the classic hero Achilles and, on the other hand, with the monomyth of the superhero. Finally, I will conclude by examining if Herbert opts for Ancient or Contemporary Heroism to create the history of the young Paul Atreides.