SandChigger wrote:The point is development
through time. I'm questioning the need for the assumption that the pre-Leto Imperium was multigalactic as well. The Leto quote is from his journals discovered in Dar-es-Balat and occurs early in
GEoD. Earlier in the same epigraph he states that he was "born Leto Atreides II more than
three thousand standard years ago, measuring from the moment when I cause these words to be printed." That indicates that it is toward the end of his reign and life.
Up until this point in the books, FH never uses the word "galaxy" except this in
Dune:
"You speak too casually of Salusa Secundus," Hawat said.
"It's a penal colony," the Baron said. "The worst riff-raff in the galaxy are sent to Salusa Secundus. What else do we need to know?"
In
the galaxy. Not "in
this galaxy" or "in the three/twelve/twenty galaxies". Not conclusive of course, but a hint. (
Edit: I see Freak has already mentioned this. My interpretation is exactly opposite.)
If the Imperium was not multigalactic, Leto could have made it so in 3,000 years. Having human settlements in other galaxies to act as springboards for the Scattering would make sense.
There is no definite statement in the first three books either way. So we have two assumptions. What does the assumption that the Imperium was multigalactic really get you?
That's all I was asking. Like I posted, it's a fair enough interpretation, but is by no means the only one nor necessarily the most correct.
Much like space travel, there's a lack of specific detail on the form and size of the empire. Until an explicit statement was written by Frank to indicate whether the empire was in more than one galaxy, all we had was the impression given to us by Frank's writing. Frank uses "universe" all the time, so it gives the impression that if not universally pervasive the Imperium at the least was described as something beyond our own galactic cradle. Frank maintained technical consistency in his books so I've no reason to believe he didn't know exactly what he was talking about.
If I may be bold enough, the scattering itself is really irrelevant. Whether within a scenario where the empire is mono-galactic or multi-galactic,
all the scattering requires is exodus to any unexplored frontier, galaxies or deep space alike.
As for dialog, there are just as many examples,
if not more, where characters (Paul, Jessica, etc) use the term "universe" where "galaxy" would have been more appropriate
if the empire were mono-galactic. Again, it's an area where interpretation comes into play, which is why I was curious why my interpretation was somehow invalid based on nothing more than opinion. In the absence of any specific details or a strong theme to indicate the opposite,
Frank's vernacular for the character's speech during most of Dune and Leto's LATER statement indicate multi-galactic without a pre/post distinction. It may not be for everyone, but my interpretation is valid and unified with canon.