Michael Corleone’s Disapproval of Merle: Power, Trust, and Family Loyalty in The Godfather Part II

In The Godfather Part II, Michael Corleone's disapproval of Merle and his insistence that Connie break their relationship is a complex reflection of his character and the film's themes. Let's delve into the motivations behind Michael's actions and the broader implications for the Corleone family.

Protectiveness and Control

Michael is profoundly protective of his family, and as the acting head of the Corleone family, he believes that his decisions and judgments must prioritize the family's safety and reputation. His disapproval of Merle and the breakup with Connie are driven by a desire to control external influences that he perceives as threats. Merle, not being part of their world, is seen as a potential source of unwanted attention or complications that could jeopardize the family's interests.

Personal Experience and Wary Discretion

Michael's past experiences with relationships and betrayal have made him wary. His own tumultuous relationship with Kay Amato serves as a backdrop, highlighting his cautions about who is close to his family. He understands that personal ties can lead to vulnerabilities, especially in the criminal world. By severing links with individuals outside his family's sphere, Michael aims to mitigate such risks.

Disdain for Outsiders

Much of Michael's disapproval of Merle stems from his growing distrust of outsiders and anyone who does not align with the Corleone family's values and lifestyle. Merle, not part of the Corleone circle, represents a potential risk. Michael's isolationist mentality and desire to maintain his family's integrity drive him to sever ties with individuals he perceives as a threat.

Family Loyalty and Power Dynamics

Much of Michael's disapproval also reflects broader themes of loyalty and power dynamics within the Corleone family. By insisting on Connie's breakup with Merle, Michael reinforces his position as the head of the family. He asserts control not only over business matters but also personal ones. This decision is a manifestation of the burdens of leadership within the Corleone family and the sacrifices required to maintain the family's interests.

The Circumstances and Connie's Role

Connie was the primary problem in this situation and a recurring troublemaker throughout the film. Her actions and the attitudes of her father, Vito, set the stage for complications. Vito's questionable and poor decisions regarding Connie's behavior and choices were the initial issues that led to subsequent problems. It was simply unfortunate that Merle was implicated in these circumstances, which fell to Michael to mitigate. Merle’s involvement in the narrative is, in essence, a representation of the broader struggle and the consequences faced by those associated with the Corleone family.