Michael Corleone’s Respect and the Moral Ambiguity in The Godfather
Michael Corleone’s Respect and the Moral Ambiguity in The Godfather
In the epic film 'The Godfather,' Michael Corleone (played by Al Pacino) is a complex character whose rise to power is marked by both respect and isolation. By the end of the film, he is respected by key figures within the Mafia and his family, but this respect comes at significant personal and moral costs. This essay explores the nature of Michael Corleone’s respect, the reasons behind it, and the ethical dilemmas he faces.
Respect and Authority within the Corleone Family
Michael Corleone, after his transformation from a reluctant family outsider to a central and effective force within the Corleone organization, has earned significant respect from various key figures. This respect is primarily rooted in his strategic ability, ruthlessness, and unyielding loyalty within the family.
The consolidation of power Michael achieves by eliminating his enemies and establishing himself as a formidable leader has secured his status as a respected figure. His success leads to fear and awe among his rivals, which translates into respect. For instance, Don Vito Corleone imparts wisdom to his son-in-law Bonasera, advising, 'If an honest man like you is my friend and should make enemies, then they would become my enemies, and they will fear you.' This underscores the belief that respect is a natural byproduct of fear in organized crime circles.
The Moral Ambiguity in Michael’s Actions
However, Michael’s path to respect is not without moral ambiguity. Throughout the film, his actions increasingly distance him from the values and relationships he once cherished. His strategic decisions, made to safeguard the family business, often come at the expense of personal and familial bonds.
The most poignant example of this is the strained relationship between Michael and his wife Kay Adams. Kay is a symbol of all that Michael, as a young man, represented and aspired to. Her personal values and ideals stand in stark contrast to the ruthless methods and compromises Michael must make to maintain his power. This tension culminates in a series of painful episodes, leading to a deep rift in their relationship. Michael’s journey from an idealistic young man to a cold, calculating businessman is a testament to the moral and emotional toll his pursuit of power has taken on him.
The Cost of Respect: Isolation and Estrangement
Michael’s respect comes at a high cost. While his family and his associates fear and respect him, this respect is not grounded in empathy or genuine affection. His strategic decisions, while effective in the short term, lead to a deep sense of isolation. The emotional and psychological toll of alienating his loved ones and forsaking his past values leaves him deeply estranged from his true self and his connections.
Michael’s Character Transformation
The film portrays Michael as a tragic figure, torn between his desire for power and his loyalty to his family. His character arc is one of profound transformation, moving from a reluctant participant to a central figure in the family’s enterprise. This transformation is marked by a deepening moral ambiguity, as he grapples with the ethical costs of his decisions.
Stalin’s Strategy and Moral Dissonance
Interestingly, Michael’s approach to maintaining his power aligns with the strategy espoused by Joseph Stalin. According to Stalin, "it is better to be feared than respected, for respect is not automatic and can be lost, but fear is a more durable and reliable foundation for power." This approach aligns with Michael’s tactics in 'The Godfather.' He chooses to instill fear in his enemies to ensure loyalty and obedience, recognizing that respect without fear can be precarious.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Michael Corleone’s respect in the end of 'The Godfather' is a complex and morally ambiguous achievement. It is earned through strategic brilliance and ruthless actions, but at the cost of his personal relationships and core values. The film showcases the tragic transformation of a man whose pursuit of power leads him down a path of isolation and emotional estrangement.