In Dune: Prophecy, Desmond Hart (Travis Fimmel) gets bestowed the rank of “Bashar” by Emperor Javicco Corinno. This has sparked intrigue among viewers, who are already curious about the many mysteries presented to them by the series.
Here is everything you need to know on Dune: Prophecy’s Bashar rank.
What does Bashar mean in Dune: Prophecy?
Bashar is a military rank in Dune: Prophecy and the rest of the franchise.
This is a high-ranking military position bestowed by the emperor, equivalent to a general or shogun in Feudal Japan. The Bashar rank is higher than that of a Colonel, and those with the rank have military jurisdiction and leadership powers over a designated planet.
However, Desmond Hart was made the Bashar or leader of the Emperor’s military personnel, aka Sardaukar.
Bashar is not the highest military rank, however. The Dune Fandom wiki suggests that there are two higher ranks above it, Burseg and Supreme Bashar.
The name Bashar has its roots in Arabic, where it means “bringer of glad tidings.” Ironically, Desmond Hart does everything opposite of “glad tidings” in the series, including burning Sister Kasha, Pruwet Richese, and other noble house members in Episode 4 to protect the Emperor.
Why did Desmond Hart get the Bashar title in Dune: Prophecy?
Desmond Hart got the Bashar title from the Emperor as the latter realized the former was a valuable weapon he could use and someone he could trust.
Moreover, Corrino also likely seeks to protect himself from Hart’s wrath and his dangerous powers.
Dune: Prophecy was helmed by Diane Ademu-John and Alison Schapker. Besides Fimmel, the show stars Emily Watson, Olivia Williams, Jodhi May, Sarah Soufie-Boussnina, Chloe Lea, Chris Mason and Mark Strong.
Brian Herbert, who wrote the book Sisterhood of Dune, which inspired the series, serves as executive producer.
On Rotten Tomatoes, the series has a 70% fresh rating and a 65% audience score.
