In The Godfather, did Vito Corleone know that everyone would underestimate Michael? In “The Godfather” by Mario Puzo and its film adaptation directed by Francis Ford Coppola, Vito Corleone is portrayed as a shrewd and strategic leader who understands the complexities of power and influence. While it’s never explicitly stated that Vito knew everyone would underestimate Michael, he certainly recognized Michael’s potential and strengths, even if others did not.

Vito saw qualities in Michael that made him believe Michael could be a worthy successor. Michael, despite being initially reluctant to join the family business, showed a calm demeanor, intelligence, and a capability to make difficult decisions when necessary. Vito might have anticipated that others would underestimate Michael due to his initial distance from the family business and his seemingly more moderate and less ruthless nature compared to other Corleone family members.

Vito’s decision to involve Michael in the family’s operations and groom him to take over could be seen as a strategic move to position Michael as a powerful and underestimated force within the family and the broader organized crime world. By doing so, Vito could have intended for Michael to take advantage of being underestimated to outmaneuver and gain an advantage over their rivals.

However, it’s important to note that while Vito had high hopes for Michael, he couldn’t predict every outcome or the exact nature of how Michael’s character and capabilities would be perceived by others. The idea of Michael being underestimated is more of a consequence of his character and the circumstances than a deliberate plan by Vito.

So, in summary, while Vito Corleone saw potential in Michael and wanted him to succeed him, it’s not explicitly stated that he knew everyone would underestimate Michael. It’s more a reflection of Michael’s character and the dynamics within the Corleone family and the world of organized crime.