Title: Paul's Hero's Journey
Course: Science Fiction: Dune > Section: As you read

As you read, record how Paul Atreides fits into the Hero Model. You'll need to come back from time to time to update this assignment.

Dune: The Hero’s Journey

Explain what happens in each of these stages in the Hero’s Journey.

I. Extraordinary Birth

Describe Paul’s background and parentage. How does Paul’s early life fit in with what you know about this stage?

II. Separation: The Call to Adventure

What is Paul’s attitude at the beginning of Dune? How does it change? What changes it? How is he called to adventure?

III. Refusal

In what ways does Paul try to avoid his “terrible purpose” or the call to adventure?

IV. The Guardian Guide at the Threshold

Who is Paul’s guide? What is this person like? How does this person guide Paul? What does this person ask Paul to do?

V. Threshold

What is Paul’s point of no return? Describe what he does in order to survive.

VI. Initiation

What does Paul learn about his abilities? What is his struggle all about?

What difficult tasks does Paul perform? How is he transformed?

VII. Decisive Victory

What is Paul’s victory and how does it come about?

VIII. Return with “Elixir” or “Boon”

What does Paul’s victory give to the community? How is civilization changed by his work?