The Sicilian is about the clandestine life of a legendary Sicilian bandit, Salvatore Guiliano, and the political turmoil of 1940s Sicily. Through a blend of history and fiction, the story captures the struggle for power and the impact of one man's quest for justice in a land that has long been ruled by corruption.
Table of Content
The Sicilian Book Summary
Michael Corleone, a man with deep roots in the Sicilian mafia, is summoned by his aging father, the Kingpin of the Corleone crime family. He tasks Michael with a mission to help a rebel, Salvatore Guiliano, escape Sicily and its tumultuous politics.
Salvatore Guiliano is a folk hero, fighting against the tyranny of the Italian government. His bold actions have made him a symbol of hope for the Sicilian people, and a thorn in the side of the authorities.
As Michael and Guiliano form an unexpected alliance, they navigate through the treacherous Sicilian landscape. They must avoid the relentless pursuit of Colonel Vincente Adonis, who is determined to capture or kill Guiliano.
Guiliano, with his band of loyal followers including Gaspare Pisciotta, uses both military tactics and public relations to maintain his position and resist the government's forces.
Meanwhile, the intricate web of Sicilian politics is unraveled. Don Croce, the powerful mafia boss, manipulates and influences events to serve his own interests, often to the detriment of the common people.
Dr. Hector Adonis, the Colonel's brother, works within the system to bring about change and supports Guiliano as a force for good in Sicily.
Throughout the story, the landscape of Sicily becomes a character in itself - with its rugged beauty and history of violence, it shapes the destiny of those who call it home.
As Guiliano's legend grows, the delicate balance of power in Sicily is upset. The authorities, the mafia, and the people are all affected by his actions.
Gaspare Pisciotta, once a trusted ally, betrays Guiliano, leading to the tragic 'Portella della Ginestra' massacre, in which many of Guiliano's supporters are killed.
Despite his efforts, Guiliano's fate is sealed. After a series of betrayals, he is ambushed and killed. His death remains a mystery, with conflicting reports of whether it was an accident or an assassination.
The aftermath of Guiliano's death reshapes Sicilian politics once more. The old powers reassert themselves, and the people are left to continue their struggle for a better future.
Michael Corleone, having fulfilled his mission, leaves Sicily and returns to the United States. The events he experienced in Sicily have a profound impact on him and his understanding of power and justice.
The Sicilian Quotes
- True power is knowing that you can, but never do.
- Behind every great fortune there is a crime.
The Sicilian Ending Explained
At the end of The Sicilian, the life of the titular character, Salvatore Guiliano, comes to a dramatic close as he is ambushed and killed.
Guiliano's death leaves a void in the Sicilian resistance, and the old powers begin to reassert themselves, perpetuating the cycle of corruption and violence.
Michael Corleone, having successfully overseen Guiliano's escape, leaves Sicily behind, forever changed by the events and the complex web of power he has witnessed.
Characters in book The Sicilian
- Salvatore Guiliano: A charismatic and enigmatic Sicilian bandit who becomes a symbol of rebellion against the corrupt government.
- Michael Corleone: The protagonist who is a young, powerful American businessman with ties to the Italian mafia.
- Colonel Vincente Adonis: The head of the Sicilian police who is relentless in his pursuit of Salvatore Guiliano.
- Gaspare Pisciotta: A close friend and lieutenant of Salvatore Guiliano who eventually becomes a government witness.
- Don Croce: The leader of the Sicilian mafia and a powerful figure in Sicilian politics.
- Dr. Hector Adonis: A progressive member of the Sicilian Parliament who is at odds with the corrupt political system.
Key Lessons
- Stand for Justice: Fighting for what is right, even in the face of overwhelming opposition, can inspire change and leave a lasting impact.
- Question Authority: Blindly accepting authority can lead to a perpetuation of corruption and injustice. It's essential to question and hold those in power accountable.
- Power Dynamics: Understanding the intricate dynamics of power can be crucial to navigating through complex political and social landscapes.
- Loyalty and Betrayal: True loyalty is a rare and valuable trait, and betrayal can have profound and far-reaching consequences.
- Legacy and Myth: The way a person is remembered can be as influential as their actions in life. A person's legacy and the myths that surround it can shape the future.
My Personal Opinion
Is The Sicilian worth reading? Absolutely yes, I found it to be a captivating blend of history and fiction. The intricate portrayal of Sicily's political landscape is both fascinating and thought-provoking.
I was impressed by the depth of the characters and the rich storytelling. However, at times, the political complexities can be overwhelming, and some readers may find it difficult to follow without a basic understanding of Italian history.
I would recommend The Sicilian to readers who enjoy historical fiction and those with an interest in the Italian mafia. It's a book that resonates with those who appreciate the struggle for justice in the face of overwhelming corruption.