The Motivations Behind Michael's Action in 'The Godfather'

In the iconic Hollywood film 'The Godfather', Michael Corleone's decision to eliminate Sollozzo and McCluskey marks a crucial turning point in his life and his transition into full membership of the Corleone Family. This act was not merely fueled by personal vendetta but was driven by a complex web of political strategies and survival tactics. This article delves into the motivations behind Michael's actions, exploring the political landscape and personal stakes involved.

The Political Landscape and Michael's Decisions

Michael's decision to kill Sollozzo and McCluskey was not without its strategic considerations. Sollozzo, the corrupt police captain, was perceived as a direct threat to the safety and survival of Vito Corleone, the patriarch of the family. The assassination attempt on Vito's life was linked to Sollozzo, who sought to eliminate Vito to pave the way for his drug trafficking business. Michael believed that Sollozzo was the prime mover behind these attempts, and his presence was seen as a continuous threat to the family's security.

Tom, who was privy to this information, advised Sonny, Michael's older brother, about the internal politics of the Mafia. According to Tom, if Vito were to die, it would be essential for the Corleone Family to make a deal with Sollozzo to retain their strength and influence. However, Tom also warned that the political affiliations of the families would remain loyal to Vito, not Sonny. This realization underscored the need for eliminating Sollozzo not just for personal retribution but to safeguard the family's interests.

Elimination of Sollozzo and McCluskey

Michael's choice to address the threat from Sollozzo and McCluskey was a matter of clear necessity. Sollozzo was not only directly responsible for the assassination attempts on Vito but was also seen as a driving force behind the ongoing war with other Mafia families. His efforts to undermine the Corleone Family through his drug trafficking activities were a direct threat to the family's dominance and survival.

Michael's decision to kill Sollozzo also aimed to curtail the political ambitions that threatened his father’s life. Sollozzo’s ambition to control the entire New York Mafia was a direct challenge to the Corleone Family's authority and power. By eliminating Sollozzo, Michael believed that the political landscape could be reshaped in favor of the Corleone Family. Sollozzo’s bodyguard, McCluskey, was killed because of his association and the protection he provided to Sollozzo. Eliminating McCluskey not only silenced another key figure but also removed a potential counter to Michael's actions.

The Psychological Perspective

From a psychological perspective, Michael's actions were not solely based on political motivations but were also influenced by his personal sense of duty and loyalty to his family. The film 'The Godfather' portrays Michael as a man driven by a desire to protect his family and fulfill his father's legacy. This sense of personal responsibility is evident in his decision to kill Sollozzo and McCluskey, despite the personal risks involved. Michael's mindset is further emphasized in the scenes where he tells Sonny, "It's not personal, Sonny. It's just business," indicating his desire to separate his personal feelings from his business dealings.

However, in the novel by Mario Puzo, the sentiment is different. Michael is portrayed as taking this matter "too personal," leading to the famous line in the film, "It's personal, Sonny, not business," highlighting his emotional investment in the actions he takes.

The motivations behind Michael's actions in 'The Godfather' are complex and multifaceted. They include a blend of political strategy, personal loyalty, and a desire to protect his family. Michael's actions marked a significant turning point in his character, transitioning him from an outsider to a full participant in the gritty world of the Mafia. His decision to eliminate Sollozzo and McCluskey not only reshaped the political landscape but also set him on a path towards his own rise to power within the family.