Outline IOC Coriolanus

 

 

Context:

-          Passage selected from Act 1, Scene 3

-          Previous to the passage, Marcius is sent to war in Corioli where his victory brings him the name of Coriolanus. After the passage Coriolanus returns to Rome and he is suggested as consul.

 Overview and Structure:

-          The passage presents the conversation between Volumnia, Coriolanus’ mother and Virgilia, his wife after Coriolanus leaves for war.

-          The passage is organized in such a way so that it allows us to see the views and concerns of both characters, yet in much more detail for Volumnia rather than Virgilia.

 Purpose/Significance:

-          The significance of the passages is given by the dialogue itself because it allows for Volumnia to be indirectly characterized through her speech.

-          This also helps the readers understand Coriolanus’ attitude and beliefs, since he is so easily influenced by his mother.

-          The passage mostly builds up the plot of the play, foreshadowing the further misunderstandings between Coriolanus and the plebeians due to his attitude.

 

Approach: Sequentially