A Symbolic Journey: The Orange in The Godfather Trilogy

The Godfather trilogy, directed by the legendary Francis Ford Coppola, is renowned for its intricate storylines, compelling characters, and profound symbolism. One of the most haunting symbols in the final installment of the series is the appearance of an orange in the last scene. This symbolism not only mirrors the fate of Don Michael Corleone but also adds layers of meaning to the entire trilogy. In this article, we will delve into the significance of the orange in The Godfather 3 and explore its broader implications throughout the series.

What is the Last Time an Orange Appears in The Godfather Trilogy?

At the very end of The Godfather 3, Michael Corleone, having retired from his role as the Don of the Corleone family, finds himself isolated and alone. He sits in a chair in his villa, a place he has taken after the death of Don Tommasino. This scene is not just a resolution to the story but also a culmination of the choices Michael has made throughout his life. Among the numerous elements that reinforce Michael's loneliness and the themes of his character's journey, an orange plays a pivotal role.

Director Francis Ford Coppola's Condemnation of Michael

Francis Ford Coppola, through his direction, conveys the idea that Michael's tendency to harm others, whether through manipulation, betrayal, or cruelty, has isolated him from meaningful relationships. This isolation is evident in his final moments, where he has few, if any, true connections. The final scene in The Godfather 3 is a stark reflection of his life choices. The lack of love and support from others serves both as a punishment and a reminder of the importance of empathy and kindness in forging lasting bonds. A man who made enemies and killed ends his days alone, hated by those who knew him, encapsulating the consequences of his actions and the value of human connection.

Given this context, it is clear that the appearance of the orange in The Godfather 3 is not merely a random prop but a powerful symbol that encapsulates much of the trilogy's themes. The orange, much like the winter landscape that surrounds Michael, symbolizes death and the end of an era. It serves as a visual reminder of the consequences of his actions and the desolation of his solitude.

The Significance of the Orange in The Godfather Trilogy

Throughout the trilogy, the orange appears in various forms and contexts, each time enhancing the narrative and adding depth to the characters' stories. In The Godfather, the orange is often seen on Tattaglia's table, symbolizing the threat and violence that pervade the world of the Corleone family. In The Godfather Part II, the orange is more explicitly linked to death and transition. Don Virgil Malaprop, who is shot, appears to be holding an orange, foreshadowing his own demise and the changing of the guard within the Corleone family.

The final appearance of the orange in The Godfather 3 is a visual and symbolic culmination of these themes. As Michael sits alone, the orange serves as a reminder of the injustices he has committed and the emptiness that follows. It symbolizes both the end of the era of violence and betrayal that defined the Corleone family and the emergence of a new, more isolated and desolate existence for Michael.

Conclusion: Embracing Empathy and Kindness

The Godfather trilogy, with its rich tapestry of characters and complex themes, uses the symbol of the orange to underscore the importance of empathy and kindness in human relationships. Michael's journey, though marked by violence and betrayal, ultimately highlights the profound impact of these values. The orange, as it appears in the final moments of The Godfather 3, serves as a powerful reminder that the path to a fulfilling life often lies not in the exercise of power or the manipulation of others, but in the cultivation of genuine connections and the recognition of the value of human empathy and kindness.

Keywords

The Godfather, Orange symbol, Francis Ford Coppola

References

The Godfather (1972), The Godfather Part II (1974), The Godfather Part III (1990)