The Golden Path: Mythology & Psychology in Herbert’s God Emperor of Dune

THURSDAYS, 5:30-7pm (Mountain), 4:30-6pm (Pacific); 4 Weeks In God Emperor of Dune, Frank Herbert presents one of science fiction's most radical and disturbing visions: Leto II Atreides, transformed into a monstrous human-sandworm hybrid who has ruled humanity with absolute authority for 3,500 years along what he calls the "Golden Path." Reviled as a tyrant, worshipped as a god, Leto claims his iron grip on humanity is an act of love—a sacrifice so total it has cost him his humanity, his mortality, and any hope of personal fulfillment. Is he savior or monster? Prophet or madman? Herbert refuses easy answers. This course offers a deep Jungian and mythological reading of Herbert's most challenging and philosophically demanding novel, a book that divided readers upon its release and continues to reward those willing to wrestle with its provocations. We will approach Leto II as a profound symbol of the Self made monstrous: what does it mean to carry within your consciousness the memories of every ancestor who ever lived—and to be ruled by that chorus of the dead? This course focuses exclusively on God Emperor of Dune, the 4th novel in Herbert's saga. While prior familiarity with the first three novels is strongly recommended, we will provide necessary context. Our discussions will move chapter by chapter through the novel's episodic, philosophically dense structure. This is a course for serious Dune readers ready to move beyond the adventure of Dune and the political intrigue of its sequels into Herbert's most introspective and challenging territory. Come explore the psychology of a god who chose to become a monster so that humanity might one day be free. ISM PROFESSIONAL & STUDENT MEMBERS GET $40 OFF REGISTRATION COST Email info@ismythology.com for your discount code REVIEWS FROM PAST COURSES TAUGHT BY DR. JASON BATT “This course has been amazing! I have new appreciation for the Dune series!" -Sophie