One of the most interesting aspects of the mafia, historically, is that so many ordinary people find this violent, immoral world as romantic and desirable.
Many times in the movies, gangsters are portrayed as the heroes, and law officials are portrayed as criminals.
This dynamic was at play with Al Capone as well. While he was a violent, merciless criminal, the public at times adored him and treated him like a Hollywood star. (This instances can be glimpsed in The Untouchables whenever Capone is speaking with members of the press, and the reporters are laughing at his jokes acting like they're just happy to be hanging out with the cool kid at recess.)
The reality, of course, was quite different.
Mob bosses were not comedians or movie stars. They were cruel and heartless killers.
Even in prison, however, Capone was treated like a celebrity. Here's a typical cell at Alcatraz:
And here's Capone's cell at Alcatraz:
This infatuation with crime didn't end with prohibition, however. Even today, ordinary, law-abiding citizens are drawn to real-life criminals. Criminals are at times treated like royalty, like celebrities, and people can't wait to buy the next album, see the next movie, watch the next episode.
In a thoughful, thorough paragraph, respond to the following prompt:
- Name a real life criminal that has gained fame and popularity - at least in part - because of his/her illegal activities.
- Briefly summarize the person's criminal record, and describe his or her 'ride on the fame machine' - his or her rise to popularity, his or her time in the spotlight.
- Answer the following question: Why do so many people find this individual so entertaining and riveting - despite his or her criminal record? In other words, why is this person treated like a celebrity even though he or she has broken the law?
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