I’ve been asked if the Viszudar are like the Bene Gesserit from the Dune series by Frank Herbert. I did read the first book or two of that series years ago, so it’s possible that something from the Bene Gesserit floated around in my mind and found a place in the Viszudar. There are similarities between the two groups, but I think the differences are more significant.
Similarities The most obvious similarity is that both groups are exclusively female. Both undergo years of training and are highly skilled at perceiving the thoughts and intentions of others. As an outcome of this skill they can manipulate others without the other person being aware of the manipulation. Most significantly, both groups hold significant political power which they use to achieve their own goals. Furthermore, from a structural point-of-view both groups play a significant role in the storyline of their respective books. The Viszudar provide the framework for the conflict in Fallen Kingdoms, and the breeding program of the Bene Gesserit is a key plot element in Dune. Given that list, it’s reasonable to think that the Bene Gesserit served as the model for the Viszudar. Differences However, I think the differences are much greater than the similarities, and the greatest difference is the overall goal of each group. The Bene Gesserit breeding program is secret and intended to move humanity in the direction they think best, while the Viszudar are blatantly obvious in their goal of maintaining harmony among the kingdoms. This makes the former a source of conflict and the latter an extension of the protagonist. A second significant distinction is that the Bene Gesserit obtain their abilities through the use of the fictional drug mélange, which makes it impossible for anyone to do what they do. The Viszudar, on the other hand, are trained to pay attention to what is said, and, as importantly, to how it is said. This can be done by anyone, although it is becoming a lost art in the modern, digital age. Origins Both Frank Hebert and I have a Catholic background, so perhaps it is better to look at that as the source of inspiration for both fictional groups. Mr. Herbert rejected Catholicism, while I followed it for many years. Perhaps as a result, the Bene Gesserit have a sinister, malevolent aura seemingly absent in the Viszudar. However, I think the Viszudar have their root in other personal experiences I have had. I’m referring to a business meeting I had years ago where someone said a good businessman can “tell when you’re lying as fast as a woman”. I understood this more as a compliment to women rather than as an admonition to be honest. I also have seen many very strong women work diligently to maintain order and harmony in their households, and feel that the Viszudar reflect this more than a secretive, fictional group. Conclusion As a writer I realize that everything I experience, and have experienced, can find its way into my work. (I’ve taken to warning my wife when something she says strikes me as particularly rich material.) This means the question about the Bene Gesserit is very reasonable, but on balance I have to conclude that the Viszudar are an entirely new, unique creation. Of course, I hope the reader agrees. (N.B. This evaluation is written in general terms to avoid ‘spoilers’ and looks at the technical writing craft behind the Viszudar. Those interested in the origins of the group within the confines of their own world can learn more at Historical Origins of the Viszudar.)
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