The Godfather

Main Characters and Their Development

• Don Vito Corleone - the head of one of New York's most powerful Mafia families, known for his wisdom, compassion for the poor, and ruthlessness towards enemies. As the novel progresses, he ages and passes power to his younger son, Michael.
• Michael Corleone - Don's youngest son, initially stays away from the family business, seeking a lawful life, but circumstances force him to take on the role of family head. His transformation from outsider to ruthless leader is a central character development arc.
• Santino 'Sonny' Corleone - Don's eldest son, known for his hot temper and propensity for violence. His impulsiveness becomes his fatal flaw.
• Tom Hagen - Don's adopted son, whom the Corleones took in and raised as their own. He serves as the family's consigliere - legal and diplomatic advisor. Tom embodies the family's cold-blooded intelligence and symbolizes Don's astuteness in dealing with 'non-Italians'.
• Kay Adams - an American, Michael's wife, who struggles to understand and accept him and his life choices. Her relationship with Michael highlights his estrangement from a typical American lifestyle.