Lush Garden
Herbert uses strong imagery to create a stark contrast between the beautiful and luxurious garden outside, and the harsh and oppressive desert landscape. The garden is described as "sentinel trees and broad leaves, wet foliage" that reflects the stars and is full of "white floral brilliance in the shadows". This imagery displays a tranquil and peaceful scene, a haven from the oppressive desert. In contrast, the desert is described as "alien, menacing, dangerous in its waste of water". This description evokes a sense of danger, of a hostile and unforgiving environment that is unyielding to human intervention. The contrast between the lush garden and the oppressive desert illustrates the conflict between Paul's desire to help the Fremen people and their resistance to his efforts.
Confinement
Reverend Mother's prison cell is described as a "three-meter cube carved with cutterays from the veined brown rock beneath Paul’s Keep." The description of the cell being carved from the rock represents the cell's permanence and lack of comfort. The lack of comfort is further accentuated by the sparse furnishings, which are described as "one flimsy basket chair, a pallet with a brown cover upon which had been spread a deck of the Dune Tarot cards, a metered water tap above a reclamation basin, a Fremen privy with moisture seals." The imagery of the cell fosters a sense of despair, highlighting the Reverend Mother's helplessness in her situation. The yellow light from the caged glowglobes at the ceiling adds to the element of confinement and lack of hope.
Grand Reception Hall
In the narration, Herbert utilizes intense imagery to depict the Grand Reception Hall of Emperor Paul Atreides. The first image is that of the room itself, describing it as "immense" and filled with "hidden structural forces balanced with nicety." This creates an aspect of awe and power, emphasizing the grandeur of the space. The second image is that of Paul Atreides sitting on his emerald green throne, surrounded by attendants and guardsmen. The color of the throne is used to suggest the power Paul holds, with its symbolism of both life and death. Additionally, the room appears to get smaller as one approaches the throne. Herbert accentuates the Reverend Mother's slow hobbling approach to the throne, suggesting that one must take the time to be cowed by the power of the Emperor.
Otheym's Face
Another example of imagery is the description of Otheym's face as a "lopsided ruin" with its "networks of crisscrossed scars on the left cheek below a drooping, wet eye, but clear skin on the other side and a straight, blue-in-blue Fremen gaze." This vivid imagery highlights Otheym's disfigured face and hints at the hardships he has endured. It also expresses the dichotomy between his physical appearance and his inner strength and courage. The description is also symbolic of the struggle between good and evil, as Otheym has been scarred by his battles but is still a powerful figure. Thus, it illustrates the resilience of the human spirit despite the hardships faced.
