Challenging the Mafia Mystique: Cosa Nostra from Legitimisation to Denunciation

Product Description This book provides an analysis of the changes the Sicilian mafia has undergone from legitimisation to denunciation. It argues that conceptualisations of the mafia in public and scientific debate, during the nineteenth and more than half of the twentieth century, created a mystique that legitimised the mafia and contributed to their success. Review 'Rino Coluccello's book is an admirably comprehensive, clear and illuminating guide to the development of the Sicilian mafia and the power it acquired, from its emergence in the nineteenth century to the days of Falcone and Buscetta. His rigorous research illustrates the changing nature of Cosa Nostra while his multi-level approach deftly blends historical survey, sociological analysis and insightful reflection on fiction and drama related to the topic.' Joseph Farrell, Professor Emeritus of Italian, University of Strathclyde, UK'Rino Coluccello takes readers on a fascinating journey into the history and culture of "darkest Italy" to tell us, as no one has before, about the origins of the Mafia and how this sinister criminal organization has been interpreted over time by travelers, novelists, journalists, government investigators, and film makers. Americans no less than Europeans will find this an enthralling story.' - Don H. Doyle, Professor of History, University of South Carolina, USA'As a prosecutor I have always looked at the mafia from a criminal and investigative point of view. Contrasting its violent actions and its almost eternal race for power have always been the main focus of my action as a magistrate and also my principal worry as a Sicilian devoted to change the history of this region. Salvatore "Rino" Coluccello's book gave me and will give all readers different perspectives historical, social, sociological and "cultural" that really do enrich the picture of the phenomenon. This book can be considered an outstanding starting point for anyone who is really interested in deepening the knowledge, background and possible developments of one of the most dangerous criminal organisations in the history of the world.' Dr. Gery Ferrara, Deputy Prosecutor, Antimafia Directorate at the Procura in Palermo, Italy About the Author Salvatore Coluccello is Senior Lecturer at the School of International Studies and Social Science, Coventry University, UK.