Coriolanus Summary

Act I
In Rome, a group of mutinous citizens have become incensed over a shortage of food and are
resentful of their rulers. Menenius Agrippa, a popular aristocrat, succeeds in calming them down.
But then an arrogant young general called Caius Martius enters. He criticises that the tribunes
(representatives), Sicinius Velutus and Junius Brutus, have been appointed to speak for the
plebeians. He shows his disdain for the plebeians (common people). In the midst of this class
struggle, an invading Italian army known as the Volscians threaten Rome. The Senate sends
Martius along with the army to oppose the Volscian forces. Martius's sworn enemy Tullus
Aufidius leads the Volscian army.
Act II
Meanwhile, Martius's mother, Volumnia, glories in her son's valour. She discusses the
importance of military prowess with his gentle wife Virgilia. Martius defeats the Volscians
almost single-handedly in their city of Corioli. He earns the title 'Coriolanus'. Upon return to
Rome, the aristocracy chooses to appoint Coriolanus as a Consul (another position of authority).
Volumnia pressures Coriolanus to accept. According to custom at the time, potential Consuls
were expected to seek the vote of the citizens in the marketplace as a mark of humility.
Coriolanus, though eager to accept the position, recoils at the thought of going before the people.
He is persuaded to carry out the duty. Despite their doubts, the people initially ratify the election.
Shortly afterwards Sicinius and Brutus urge them to reverse the decision, and they do.
Act III
In the ensuing public argument, Coriolanus displays his contempt for both the people and the
idea of popular rule. He denies their right to corn supplies. Despite the encouragement of the
senators and of his mother, Coriolanus cannot make his peace with the tribunes and the
plebeians. He is expelled from Rome in rage and disgust. With nowhere else to turn, he decides
to go to the Volscian city of Antium. Aufidius admires and respects his former enemy, so he
welcomes Coriolanus. Together they plan to attack Rome.
Act IV
In Rome itself, the tribunes and people rejoice that Coriolanus is gone until they hear that he has
joined forces with Aufidius to challenge the city. They send several embassies, including
Cominius and of Menenius, to try and dissuade him. Coriolanus rejects them all. Finally,
Volumnia, Virgila, and Coriolanus's young son go to plead for their people. Coriolanus cannot
resist his mother's entreaties and ultimately agrees to make peace.
Act V
Aufidius is incensed at this betrayal of trust, and with his chosen soldiers, kills Coriolanus. Once
his anger is gone, Aufidius agrees to take part in the funeral of a worthy warrior.