How does Shakespeare develop themes in Coriolanus?

CORIOLANUS AND POWER

Shakespeare uses characterization to develop themes of power within society. The protagonist of the play is ‘Coriolanus’ and the plot is decided on the external conflict and relationships surrounding him. To give context, Rome was evolving from a monarchy to a democracy and some people were able to adapt better than others like Menenius, Volumnia (Coriolanus’ mother who lives vicariously through her son), or Aufidius (Coriolanus’ enemy who was able to see the bigger picture and successfully kill him). However, Coriolanus had no awareness of the political, social, and moral obligations towards the advantages of gaining the support of the Plebeians due to his arrogance and pride (his tragic flaw). Menenius, Coriolanus’ father figure, is a patrician and uses his ability to persuade and manipulate the citizens to his benefit – able to gain the support of those around him through his use of words. In this way, Coriolanus foils against Menenius as his character does not share the ability to manipulate with words. Additionally, Menenius adapts to the evolving political world as he is able to comprehend and explain how the government works to the plebeians in a body parable (act 1). Plebeians are the lower-class citizens, characterized as feeble-minded people as their opinions are easily influenced; the tribunes are politicians who are elected by the people, therefore the plebeians give their support as they assume that what the tribunes say are a reflection of what the people want. The plebs demonstrate that power is constantly changing form, fluctuating as people’s mindset changes.