Mario Puzo's "The Godfather" is generally recognized as the greatest family story. Family Business Academics have coined a term the "Fredo Effect" after Fredo Corleone, the loser, neer-do-well brother whose actions brings harm to his family.
Since Thrones and "The Godfather" are both set in family businesses, it follows that there are numerous similarities. Check out the obvious and not so obvious and vote on The Great Family Business Drama.
General Structure
The Godfather – Five warring families try to dominate their world
Game of Thrones – Six warring families try to dominate their world
Throwing a Wedding
The Godfather – VIto Corleone holds court at Connie’s wedding
Walder Frey destroys the Starks’ court at Red wedding
Make Sure You Flush
The Godfather – Michael Corleone uses planted gun to kill Sollozzo and McCluskey
Tyrion Lancaster murders his father as he sits on toliet
Fredo Effect
The Godfather – Fredo Corleone epitomizes the loser, neer-do-well brother whose actions brings harm to his family
Game of Thrones – Samwell Tarly tries to return to his family with not very pleasant results
Women Running Family Businesses
The Godfather – Kay Adams, Michael’s wife, has the door closed on her, signifying her lack of stature in the Family Business.
Game of Thrones – Danaerys Targaryen, Cersei Lannister, Yara Greyjoy and Lyanna Mormont’s leadership skills replicate women’s leadership in Family Owned Businesses
Non-Family Members Advisors
The Godfather – Tom Hagen, Consigliere, plays a key role in helping Corleone family survive difficult transition.
Game of Thrones – Qyburn’s advice helped Cersei survive and move into leadership position.
Working Outside the Business
Michael Corleone was a war hero before returning to the Family Business.
Game of Thrones – Jon Snow, joined the Night’s Watch and killed White Walkers before returning to Winterfell.
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