Thesis

In the name of the Godfather : a study of the role of religious rituality and performativity in the Sicilian mafia

Creator
Awarding institution
  • University of Strathclyde
Date of award
  • 2013
Thesis identifier
  • T13607
Qualification Level
Qualification Name
Department, School or Faculty
Abstract
  • Religion may be viewed as a central component of mafia identity. Instances of this apparently paradoxical phenomenon range from the altars frequently found in the hideouts of mafiosi, to the ambiguous relationship with clergymen, and to the prominent roles performed by mafia leaders in local religious festivals. Although instances like these are evident throughout the history of Cosa Nostra, it is only in recent years that this phenomenon has aroused academic attention. This research adopts an interdisciplinary approach to analyse the role of religion at the micro-social level of communicative interaction between mafia leaders and affiliates at lower levels. In particular, it draws on socio-anthropological theories of religious rituals, symbols and performance to examine how, and to what extent, the religious language and behaviour used by mafia bosses in specific interactional contexts affect mafia affiliates both at an individual and collective level of identity, and at the structural level for the organisation as a whole. The research strategy adopted is based on interpretive 'in-depth' case studies. These include the analysis of the religious practices in mafia rituals of initiation; the religious references of mafia boss Michele Greco in his court hearings and written memoirs; and the religious language utilised by mafia leader Bernardo Provenzano in his pizzini (written messages). The data for this research are principally derived from judicial documents, police and parliamentary reports, audio-visual material, newspapers archives, as well as from relevant existing literature on the subject. Examining the influence of religion in the way mafiosi construct their identity and establish their authority may be useful to explore how Cosa Nostra has managed to adapt its structure and business activities to changing circumstances over time while maintaining consistent 'moral' codes and practices. Furthermore, the combination of approaches used in this research and, in particular, the novel application of performance theories to organised crime, may contribute to the delineation of an interpretative model for future analyses of various criminal organisations whose sources of social legitimisation are similarly rooted in religious values and other cultural codes.
Resource Type
Note
  • This thesis was previously held under moratorium from 17th December 2013 until 17th December 2015.
DOI
Date Created
  • 2013
Former identifier
  • 1002091

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