Coriolanus Theme

Blogpost:

Consolidate your understanding of Shakespeare’s theme of power in Coriolanus.

How would you explain how Shakespeare develops the theme of this play to someone who’s never read it in only 250 words?

In the political tragedy, “Coriolanus,” the author, William Shakespeare, considers the theme of power in relation to politics through the development of the plot, the characterization of the various characters and the figurative language employed. One recurring aspect of the theme is the result of shifts in power dynamics, along with power on the relationship between the government and the people. The play initially conveys this theme by exhibiting how the tragic hero, Coriolanus, displays his physical authority over the plebeians (common men/ citizens) and how he dominates in the battle field. Shakespeare swiftly develops these events to show the audience the way in which a war hero goes from being revered to being banished, thus manifesting how valuable citizenry approval is amidst power. Since Coriolanus is characterized as being haughty and prideful, his downfall proves to be the driving force in determining his fate, as there is only so much his power can do. This reveals one aspect of the theme and is highlighted by considering the historical context in which this play was inscribed. Written in England, in 1608, the country at that time was undergoing a political shift from the 44-year rule of Queen Elizabeth I to her cousin King James IV. This period of change of power is reflected through the play as it hinders on the aspect of a slowly shifting regime, from the last tyrant king, Tarquin, to a democratic government, in which the plebeians are given the right to elect officials, called tribunes. Additionally, through the figurative language utilized, Shakespeare is able to express the theme by the repetitive use of motifs and symbolism. The most prominent instance of this is the dragon symbol. Coriolanus is on more than once instance described as “dragon-like,” a simile demonstrating the progress of Coriolanus’ power from a demigod in the exposition of the play to someone who is animal like in nature. Furthermore, the motif of food and grain reflects the struggle for power that the plebeians face and how they are ostracized in a nobility loving society.