The Corruption of Power in The Godfather: How Puzo Explores the Moral Decline of the Corleone Family
The Corruption of Power in The Godfather: How Puzo Explores the Moral Decline of the Corleone Family
One of the most central themes in The Godfather is the moral decline that comes with the pursuit and accumulation of power. The novel follows the Corleone family’s journey as they rise from humble beginnings to become one of the most powerful criminal families in America, but as they ascend in power, they also fall further into corruption. Puzo uses the Corleones’ story to demonstrate how power, when sought and used without regard for ethics, leads to a breakdown of personal morality and family values.
Vito Corleone, the patriarch, begins the novel as a man of principles. Though involved in organized crime, Vito seeks to maintain a certain level of dignity and honor, and his power is rooted in his ability to make decisions based on what is “right” within the mafia world. He believes in rewarding loyalty and protecting his family, but his vision of power is tempered by his values. However, his power comes at a cost: he must constantly navigate violence, betrayal, and manipulation, slowly compromising his initial moral boundaries.
Michael Corleone, Vito’s youngest son, represents the next generation of Corleones, one that is more ruthless and willing to forsake ethical considerations entirely. Initially, Michael is an outsider to the family business, having enlisted in the military and distancing himself from the mafia world. However, after an assassination attempt on his father, Michael takes a more active role in the family business. As he becomes more involved in the mafia, he undergoes a transformation from an idealistic young man to a morally ambiguous leader who, by the end of the novel, has fully embraced the violent, corrupt practices of his family.
Through Michael’s character arc, Puzo illustrates how the pursuit of power can erode personal values and moral decision-making. Power corrupts not just the individual but also the family unit itself, as Michael’s actions—driven by a desire for control—alienate him from his family, culminating in his complete transformation into a ruthless mafia boss.
In conclusion, The Godfather presents power as a corrupting force that degrades personal morality and destroys relationships. The Corleone family’s rise to power demonstrates the tension between ambition and ethics, showing that in the world of organized crime, moral boundaries become increasingly blurred.
