Corruption

The author uses the theme of corruption to illustrate how it is an everyday fact of life in the community.

Most of the corruption throughout the novel is discussed, rather than seen. Montalbano and Fazio talk about how the mafia has a hold on the politics in the region. They do not go into great deal about it, but they appear to know the major players.

One of these players is the Honorable Mongibello. He was a member of Parliament and was a member of different political parties. He is an attorney for the Cuffaro family as well. When Montalbano discovers his connection to the Borsellino murder, he is not overwhelmingly shocked. Instead, he understands Mongibello’s role in the power structure of the community.

It is not surprising then that the commissioner, as well as vice commissioner Sponses, are reluctant for Montalbano to delve deeper...