This novel analyzes the social and political structures of the La Cosa Nostra.  To understand The Godfather and the true power with which Michael Corleone rules, one must first understand the basic power organization of the mafia itself. 

            There are a number or terms for the different positions in the traditional Sicilian Mafia, however modern American mafias have adapted a basic set of rank.  The head of the family is the Boss, which would be Vito Corleone.  As Vito came near death, however, there is a need for an Underboss who will take over the family when the Boss is gone.  Michael Corleone would fit closely as the Underboss, but only for a short while until he took over the family.  The next position would be that of Consigliere, the legal and trusted advisor to the family and its affairs.  Tom Hagen played the role of consigliere to both Sonny and Michael.  Next there are the Caporegimes, or Capos.  These men have rule over their own crew, which consist of soldiers, but still need to follow the orders of the Boss.  Clemenza and Tessio are the famous Caporegimes of The Godfather.  Under the direction of the Capos are the soldiers, who are initiated members of the family, but are still required to do most of the dirty work, such as intimidation or even murder.  One such soldier in the film is Willie Cicci, who later becomes an integral part of the family in the saga. 

            These various positions each hold their own set of rules and limitations.  When initiated into the family, one is known as a “made” man.  This means that any attack on them is an attack on the family and will have consequences.  To be “made” means to take a lifelong oath of silence, or omerta, and to abide by the laws of La Cosa Nostra.