Consigliere

A consigliere (pronounced "kon-se-lye-re") is an adviser or counselor, especially to a mafia boss. The consigliere is a close, trusted friend and confidant.

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The role of consigliere is often associated with Robert Duvall's portrayal of Tom Hagen in The Godfather. Tom is Vito Corleone's adopted son and a practicing attorney. He serves as consigliere until Michael takes over the family and replaces him because he doesn't view Tom as "a war-time consigliere."

Related Topics:
Robert Duvall - Tom Hagen - The Godfather

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"Consigliere" does not simply mean "adviser." As can be seen in the Godfather, the Consigliere is often the highest ranking non-Italian. As with many royal courts in history, the most powerful position must be kept within the family and the royal bloodline; but the second most powerful position is often the Adviser to the King, and this position is given to the most qualified man for the job, independent of background. Often in history the nobles of conquered kingdoms would become advisers to the conqueror. Likewise, when the mafia is choosing an accountant or lawyer (consigliere roles), it will choose the most qualified man for the job, independent of his ethnic or social background. Tom Hagen overtly says in The Godfather that he is not Italian, but German-Irish.

Related Topics:
Tom Hagen - The Godfather

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The word is from the Italian and Latin words for "advice."

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