system
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human
[Dune] How does the feudal system work in Dune?

Leto Atreides is a duke and Vladimir Harkonnen is a baron. From what I understand about feudalism Leto should be immensely more powerful, in fact Leto's vassals (counts) should be more powerful than a baron. How is it that they both seem to relatively equal in military and land, the baron is also more wealthy but I understand that is because of the spice. Neither seems to have their own vassals either, which a Duke should.
gpt
Leto's title of Duke reflects his royal heritage and having earned it through inheritance and stature, rather than wealth.

Vladimir's title was one acquired through wealth. Though it isn't outright stated that he "bought" the title, it is stated that "the Harkonnen titles came out of the CHOAM pocketbook."

The Atreides and Harkonnens both have power, but of different kinds. Atreides have honor and the respect of the other houses of the Lansdraad. They also are have quite potent military force.

The Harkonnens have plotted and schemed their way into power, buying, bribing, blackmailing, extorting to get what they want. The main boost, of course, being them getting Arrakis as a quasi-fief.