Why Lady Jessica Let Paul Fight In Dune
The overt dangers posed by a duel with the Fremen's Jamis have led some quarters to query why Lady Jessica let Paul fight in Dune. Denis Villeneuve's adaptation of Frank Herbert's sprawling sci-fi epic for the big screen has garnered many admirers in the months following its release, with the Blade Runner 2049 director's film being nominated for a slew of prestigious end-of-year awards. Yet despite the unanimous critical acclaim for Dune, the film's slender narrative has still produced several bones of contention amongst audiences, with Lady Jessica's (Rebecca Ferguson) character motivations one such plot element called into question.
Dune's climactic ending sees Paul Atreides (Timothee Chalamet) and his mother Jessica finally reach the deep desert of Arrakis, where they encounter the Fremen, including the warrior Jamis (Babs Olusanmokun), who protests their admission into the Sietch. Jamis challenges Jessica to a ritual duel to the death, with Jessica subsequently naming Paul as her champion. Paul eventually bests Jamis, killing him, before Paul joins the Fremen as one of their own to fulfill his destiny and bring peace to the planet of Arrakis.
Related: Dune: What Happened To Caladan After House Atreides Left For Arrakis
Although Jessica letting Paul fight at the end of Dune is undoubtedly a dangerous choice, it also marks significant character progression for both Paul and Jessica that is necessary to continue Dune's unfolding story. Jessica witnessing Paul’s growth in Arrakis forces her to contend with the possibility he is the Kwisatz Haderach as he displays his skills of prescience, voice, and quick wit throughout their journey. Jessica also understands she cannot fight Jamis without turning the Fremen against her,
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