Shakespeare Closely Read

In this episode we look at the history behind Shakespeare's play by reading some Livy.

The Romans are greatly relieved that Coriolanus relented, but the Volscians, provoked by Aufidius, turn on Coriolanus and kill him.

Coriolanus rebuffs his old friend Meneius, but is finally moved by the entreaties of his family to give up his attack on Rome.

Coriolanus leads the Volscians to victory against Rome and threatens the city itself.  The people regret banishing Coriolanus, but Aufidius grows envious of Coriolanus.

Coriolanus is banished from Rome and immediately seeks the Volscians, Rome's worst enemies, and his old nemesis, Aufridius. 

Coriolanus' mother pleads with him to humble himself before the Plebians.  She thinks he can still become Consul.  After pledging to be calm, Coriolanus explodes on the first mention of "treason" and he is banished from Rome.  He predicts dire consequences for Rome.

Coriolanus appears to humble himself and ask the Plebians to consent to him becoming Consul.  But he is not sincere.  Some of the people see that and the Tribunes goad the people on to withdraw their consent. When confronted by the Tribunes, Coriolanus erupts in anger, insults the people and a riot ensues.  The Tribunes try to have Coriolanus arrested and executed.

Coriolanus returns to Rome and great honor.  The Senate wants to make him Consul, the highest office in Rome.  But the people must consent, and their Tribunes want to use this opportunity to wreck Coriolanus' political career.

Martius receives credit for capturing Corioles, and also receives the name of Coriolanus.

Martius' mother and wife wait for him in Rome, while the battle rages in and around Corioles