Coriolanus, Act 1, Characterization

Caius Martius is thoroughly characterized throughout Shakespeare’s Coriolanus. In terms of Act 1, Martius begins out in Scene 1 to be depicted as a cruel and vicious character by the Plebians, thus projecting a negative first impression on Martius by the audience. Later on, when he goes to fight for the Romans, he is first seen as a strong leader and helps encourage his soldiers to fight for their state whereas later when he enters Corioles city alone, he is seen weak and foolish by the other soldiers. They believed that he was sure to be slain while he remained in Coriole’s territories but he proved them all wrong and came out as a brave warrior. Though he doesn’t have the rhetorical tactics to speak his way and motivate his subjects through words, he encourages them through his brave actions and fighting skills. Further on, after he returns after conquering Corioles, he expresses his disdain towards the cowardly soldiers that sent him alone to battle. Though, his pride filled self once again, enhances himself as the sole warrior and projects himself to be as a motivation. This displeases the Tribunes and the other soldiers as well. His character is filled with pride, shared by disgust from the Plebians but also adoration from Menenius and Colonius through his efforts and sacrifices he has made for his country. Furthermore, his mother Volumnia, enhances his role by claiming him to be one of the bravest men ever. She herself shines with pride from her son’s political achievements through his fights especially in war. Scene 3 also characterizes Martius’ mother and wife and presents the contrast between them. While Volumnia (his mother) was served as a strong female character that took up the role of Martius’ mother AND father, her role in the play is strong and can be seen as manly whereas Virgillia seems like the typical lady- like character that serves under her husband.

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