Reverend Mother Gaius Helen Mohiam is a character in the 2021 film Dune. She is a Bene Gesserit Reverend Mother who comes to Caladan to test Paul Atreides before he departs for Arrakis. Gaius Helen Mohiam is portrayed by Charlotte Rampling.
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Chararacter description[]
A wise Truthsayer who sees all-too clearly what humanity is capable of, Gaius Helen Mohiam of the mysterious Bene Gesserit Sisterhood directs her stern gaze of judgement towards the young Paul Atreides. Using prophecy and superstition to manipulate human history from the shadows, the Bene Gesserit play a long game across the generations, course-correcting humanity’s journey on the path to the light.[1]
Physical appearance[]
Given her status within the Bene Gesserit, Mohiam is always seen wearing a veil over her face. This is usually black and compliments her black ceremonial robe. For this reason, her physical appearance is largely unknown and she retains a element of privacy.
Personality[]
History[]
Early History[]
Little is known about the early history of Mohiam, other than the fact that she at some point, excelled her way through the ranks of the Bene Gesserit, becoming a Reverend Mother. Shortly after, she taught and trained Jessica Atreides in the ways of the order. The two remained close following Jessica's return to House Atreides.
Testing Paul[]
After news of Paul Atreides' dreams ripple through the Imperium, Mohiam makes a personal visit to Caladan on behalf of the Bene Gesserit. She is introduced to Paul by Jessica, who warns him that he must obey her at all costs, and that his experiences will not be pleasant.
Upon meeting Paul, Mohiam subjects Paul to a test in which his right hand is placed in a box. She places the gom jabbar — a needle with poison at its tip — to his throat and explains that he will die if he removes his hand from the box at any moment during the test. During the test, Mohiam emits a high-pitched sound causing excruciating pain to Paul. Mohiam is surprised, however, when Paul passes the test, and wishes him well.
Upon leaving Caladan, Mohiam talks with Jessica. She tells Jessica that whilst Paul may be The One, they have numerous other candidates, and thus Paul must be taught well and controlled. Mohiam compliments Jessica on her efforts to teach Paul the ways of the Bene Gesserit.
Deal with House Harkonnen[]
After her brief visit to Caladan, Mohiam makes a personal visit to Giedi Prime, the home of House Harkonnen. She explains to Vladimir that he has the support of the Emperor and the Sardaukar (the Imperial army), in his quest to take back Arrakis from House Atreides. There is a condition of the offer, however, she explains, citing that Jessica is under the protection of the Bene Gesserit and therefore, by extension, Paul is also under their protection. Vladimir agrees not to harm the two and Mohiam leaves Giedi Prime satisfied.
Differences from the original character[]
Gaius Helen Mohiam is adapted from the character of the same name from the original Dune novel.
Trivia[]
Gallery[]
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| Characters from Dune (2021) | |
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