How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
If only [Jessica had] borne us a girl as she was ordered to do! (1.45)
If the Bene Gesserit has one thing going for it, it's a raging God complex. Unfortunately for the Reverend Mother, her powers don't quite dominate the free will of her subordinates. Jessica can still make her own decisions.
Quote #2
"I see in the future what I've see in the past. You well know the pattern of our affairs, Jessica." (3.22)
Here, understanding the future isn't about magically knowing what will happen. It's more about pattern recognition—you know, understanding that history repeats itself. So, if you didn't hit a jackpot on that one-armed bandit the last fifty plays, chances are…
Quote #3
"A day comes," the Duke said, "when the potential Mentat must learn what's being done. It may no longer be done to him. The Mentat has to share in the choice of whether to continue or abandon the training." (6.83)
This ties nicely into the "Coming of Age" theme. The Duke lets his son in on a little secret. When you're younger, you have less free will because—let's face it—you're easy to manipulate. But as you grow older and increase your knowledge, this isn't the case as often. At least, we certainly hope it isn't.