Why Barzini Chose to Exploit Tessio Over Clemenza in The Godfather

In The Godfather, the character of Barzini employs a strategic approach when dealing with his enemies, particularly when he decides to sideline Tessio over Clemenza in exploiting Michael Corleone. This choice is a testament to his cunning and understanding of the dynamics within the Corleone organization.

Smartest Capo

Clemenza, often described as the smartest capo of the Corleones, is portrayed as sharp as a tack, known for his wit and trustworthiness. However, despite his intelligence and loyalty, Barzini chose not to utilize Clemenza in his plot against Michael. The reasons behind this decision are multifaceted and reveal Barzini's understanding of the power dynamics and personal loyalties within the Corleone family.

Barzini's Strategic Approach

Barzini's approach to dealing with Tessio and Clemenza is strategic and long-term. Unlike Tessio, who proves to be easily swayed by power and ambition, Clemenza stands strong in his loyalty to the Corleone family. Barzini recognizes the immense danger of directly targeting Clemenza. Any attempt to undermine Clemenza could result in immediate retaliation from the powerful Corleone capos. Moreover, Clemenza's loyalty to Vito Corleone and his long-standing friendship with the family makes him an even riskier target.

Tessio: The More Flroppable Capo

Tessio, on the other hand, is described as a more flappable capo. His ambition and desire to be on the winning side make him more susceptible to Barzini's manipulation. Tessio's own regime in Brooklyn, while part of the larger Corleone operation, has distinct advantages. He operates with a semblance of autonomy and has an earning potential due to his assumed leadership. This partial autonomy and his perceived status as a separate entity within the Corleone organization compel Barzini to exploit him as a potential ally or potential traitor.

Tessio's miffed reaction to Michael's restrictions and lack of trust further makes him a more amenable target for Barzini's plan. He is keen to be seen as a leader in his own right and to increase his earning potential. This ambition provides a fertile ground for Barzini's manipulation, as opposed to Clemenza, who remains loyal and pragmatic.

Michael Corleone's Decision

Michael Corleone's response, identifying Tessio as the smarter move, underscores the assumption that less intelligent capos are more prone to volatility and less trustworthy. This assumption makes sense within the context of the Godfather universe, where the Mafia still held significant power over American life. The choice to exploit a less intelligent, more malleable capo like Tessio is a calculated risk with higher payoff potential compared to maintaining the loyalty of a smarter and more reliable capo like Clemenza.

Though the books and films do not explicitly state whether Barzini approached Tessio or if Tessio approached Barzini on his own accord, it is generally assumed that Tessio ultimately decided to betray the Corleone family. This suggests that Barzini's manipulative tactics were effective, capitalizing on Tessio's vulnerabilities and desires.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Barzini's choice to exploit Tessio over Clemenza in The Godfather is a masterful strategy that demonstrates his understanding of the Capone family's internal dynamics. By targeting a capo with more flappable tendencies, Barzini capitalized on weaknesses that Clemenza, with his intelligence and loyalty, simply did not have.