Introduction to the Cosa Nostra

Amid the often-overlooked and misunderstood world of organized crime, the Cosa Nostra stands as a key figure. To comprehend the intricacies of this enigmatic organization, one must delve into the roles and rituals tied to becoming a made man.

What Does It Mean to Be a Made Man?

Within the ranks of the Cosa Nostra, becoming a made man is an esteemed and solemn endeavor. This process involves adhering to a set of tenets known as the "Ten Commandments," a code of conduct that, while often ethical in nature, serves a critical purpose in maintaining the organization's structure and integrity.

Swearing the Oath of Omerta

To become a made man is to swear the oath of Omerta, a pledge that entails never betraying the family in any form. This solemn vow carries a dire consequence: breaking it results in a certain death sentence. This ritual, known as the "opening of the books," varies in its implementation, often happening infrequently or at the discretion of the organization's leadership.

From Son to Made Man

The journey to becoming a made man can be multifaceted. In the case of Fredo, it’s implied that he likely achieved this status through his connection to Michael and the increasing levels of responsibility within the The Godfather Part II. However, the specific process of becoming a made man is not explicitly detailed. The conversion of being a made man typically involves a ceremonial acknowledgment, but the exact process is left to the discretion of the organization's leaders.

Protected Members: The Benefits of Being a Made Man

The status of a made man offers not just a covenant of ethical conduct but also a layer of protection within the organization. Key to this is the understanding that any attempt to harm a made man requires the agreement of the highest ranks of the organization. Typically, such permission comes with the verification of a betrayal or a serious violation of the organization's code.

Membership and Protection

This protection isn’t just symbolic or theoretical; it carries real-world implications. It means that any attempt to harm a made man can only occur after a formal agreement at the highest levels, and even then, the individual in question must have committed a grave offense or broken significant rules. This system ensures that any threat against a member is closely monitored and cautiously handled, preserving the stability and cohesion of the organization.

Hitman and Bones: Another Path to Esteem

Where becoming a made man is more about aligning oneself with the values and rituals of the organization, another crucial path to admiration is making your bones. This term, often used in the context of The Godfather, denotes a more direct and violent involvement within the criminal activities of the organization.

Carrying Out a Hit

To be a made hitman, or to make your bones, is to personally take part in a murder. This act of killing is not only a testament to one's courage but also a badge of honor within the organization. However, such actions are closely monitored, and often, a ranking boss must give approval, even during the early days of the Cosa Nostra.

Examples from The Godfather

Michael Corleone is a prime example of both becoming a made man and acquiring the status of a hitman. His killing of Captain McCluskey and eventually Sollozzo underscore his transition into these roles. On the other hand, Fredo never "made his bones," which speaks to a lack of direct involvement and violence within the criminal activities of the Corleone family.

The Shift to Formal Approval

As the organization evolves, the need for formal approval increases. According to The Godfather, a hit on a member required the approval of the Commission, a broad gathering of leading bosses. This shift underscores the increasing complexity and formality within the organization, ensuring that every action aligns with the overall goals and values of the Cosa Nostra.

Conclusion

The roles of a made man and a hitman/bones within the Cosa Nostra are integral to understanding the operations and values of this notorious organization. Whether through ethical adherence or direct acts of violence, these roles reflect the layered and intricate nature of the Cosa Nostra, highlighting the balance between loyalty, protection, and ambition.