Tio Holtzman

Tio Holtzman is a fictional character in the "Dune" universe created by Frank Herbert. He is credited for the Holtzman effect, the scientific phenomenon that makes (among other things) instantaneous space travel and defensive force shields possible.

Though Holtzman technology is featured in the original "Dune" series, Herbert himself does not provide details about the origin of the name. The "Legends of Dune" prequel trilogy (2002-2004) by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson establishes Tio Holtzman as the namesake of the phenomenon.

The non-canon "Dune Encyclopedia" (1984) by Dr. Willis McNelly invents an extensive, alternate origin and description of the Holtzman effect.

"Legends of Dune"

In the "Legends of Dune", famed inventor Tio Holtzman resides on the planet of Poritrin, where slavery is commonplace, working under the protection and patronage of the nobleman Lord Niko Bludd. Holtzman's career is on the wane, as he has not come up with as many new brilliant inventions as he used to. He soon comes across the work of Norma Cenva, a woman from Rossak; realizing her genius, he invites her to come work with him on Poritrin.

As time passes, Holtzman discovers that the young dwarfish woman is much more creative than he, and after being upstaged by her twice, begins to dislike her. Eventually he takes credit for her mathematical theories, which lead to many practical uses for Holtzman's original discovery, the so-called Holtzman effect, including the Holtzman Drive, Holtzman Shields, suspensors and glowglobes. Cenva's name is eventually forgotten by history, but she is more interested in improving defensive shields and developing 'foldspace' travel, making it safer and more efficient. Her efforts help humanity defeat the forces of Omnius.

Holtzman is eventually killed in "" (2003) during a slave rebellion, when his personal force-shield is hit by lasgun fire; Cenva had realized early on that the impact of these two technologies results in sub-atomic fusion and a nuclear explosion.

"Prelude to Dune"

In 1999's "" (the first novel of the "Prelude to Dune" prequel trilogy), the following is stated via epigraph:

Tio Holtzman was one of the most productive Ixian inventors on record. He often went on creative binges, locking himself up for months on end so that he could work without interruption. Sometimes upon emerging he required hospitalization, and there were constant concerns over his sanity and well-being. Holtzman died young — barely past thirty Standard Years — but the results of his efforts changed the galaxy forever.— "Biographical Capsules", an Imperial filmbook