The Complex Dynamics Between Michael and Fredo: Sibling Rivalry and Betrayal in The Godfather

The relationship between Michael and Fredo Corleone in Francis Ford Coppola's The Godfather is complex and nuanced. Often misunderstood as a straightforward tale of familial hatred, this exploration delves into the roots of their strained relationship through the lens of sibling rivalry, pride, and the dynamics within the Corleone family.

Sibling Rivalry and Passed-Over Feels

From a young age, Fredo felt he was being passed over by his brothers, particularly Michael. The younger brothers, Sonny and Michael, were groomed for leadership and responsibility within the family business. Sonny, Michael, and even Carlo received mentorship and key roles, while Fredo, despite being the eldest, was left on the sidelines. This sense of being passed over contributed significantly to Fredo's resentment towards Michael and even himself.

Michael's Authority and Resentment

While Michael commanded respect from his brothers, Fredo felt overshadowed. Michael's assertiveness and decision-making skills were undeniably strong, leading to a situation where Fredo felt marginalized. Michael saw through Fredo's mistakes and realized that he would never be the ideal choice for a leader within the family. This realization was a double-edged sword: it both earned Michael's hard-earned respect and made Fredo feel even more inadequate. In the 1990 sequel, The Godfather Part II, scenes like Sonny ordering Fredo to get a drink, which even Sonny found unnecessary, show a form of dismissiveness that further fueled Fredo's resentment.

Personal Flaws and Leadership Aspirations

Fredo, while not the smartest in the family, was perceptive enough to sense that he was not being given the credit or respect he craved. His inability to prove himself in crucial moments of the family's history, such as during the assassination attempt and the aftermath of the Cuba mission, only solidified his position as a liability. These failures, combined with his lack of true leadership qualities, made the situation even more painful for him. His boiling over with emotions during the street incident and his rant about being passed over highlighted the extent of his frustration and disillusionment.

Self-Resentment and Pride

Often, Fredo's resentment was not directed at Michael, but at himself. He envied Sonny and the way he could command attention and respect. This self-perception played a significant role in his actions and decisions. His pride, an emotion he struggled to control, fueled his irrational behavior. When his pride was hurt, it caused him to react unfairly towards Michael, who, in his eyes, was showing favoritism. Michael's knowledge of Fredo's limitations and the family's distrust in his abilities created a perfect storm of resentment and humiliation.

Conclusion

While it is easy to chalk up Fredo's resentment towards Michael to simple jealousy, the complexity of their relationship goes beyond that. It is a story of a man who felt overshadowed yet failed to recognize and rectify his own flaws. Michael, in his capacity as the new head of the family, had to navigate these waters with care, often leaving Fredo feeling excluded and undervalued.