The Harkonnens are characterized by cruelty, greed, and ruthlessness. Baron Vladimir Harkonnen is manipulative, sadistic, and power-hungry, willing to use violence, betrayal, and exploitation to achieve his goals. The family values dominance through fear and sees others as tools to be controlled or discarded.
The Harkonnens aim to regain control of Arrakis, maintain their wealth, and crush House Atreides. Baron Harkonnen seeks to preserve his family's power, expand their influence, and continue exploiting spice production while manipulating political dynamics to ensure their dominance.