Young Coriolanus is a character in the play Coriolanus written by William Shakespeare. He is the son of Volumnia and Menenius, and his full name is Gaius Marcius Coriolanus. In the play, Young Coriolanus is portrayed as a brave and ambitious young man who later becomes a renowned Roman general.
From a young age, Young Coriolanus displayed exceptional skill and talent on the battlefield. He was fearless and showed great leadership qualities, which earned him the respect and admiration of his fellow soldiers. His military successes quickly gained him recognition among the Roman nobility.
As Young Coriolanus grew older, he developed a strong desire for power and recognition in Roman politics. He believed that his military achievements made him more deserving of political influence than the common citizens. This belief put him at odds with the plebeians, who felt that their voices were not being heard.
Young Coriolanuss political ambitions led to a conflict with the tribunes of the people, who represented the plebeians. He openly expressed his contempt for the common citizens and refused to show them the respect they demanded. This caused unrest and eventually led to his banishment from Rome.
Exile and Alliance with the Volscians
After being banished, Young Coriolanus sought refuge with the Volscians, Rome's long-standing enemy. He formed an alliance with Aufidius, the leader of the Volscians, and together they planned to launch an attack on Rome.
However, Young Coriolanuss mother, Volumnia, along with his wife, Virgilia, and his son, convinced him to spare Rome from destruction. His love for his family and his sense of duty ultimately overcame his thirst for revenge.
Legacy and Impact
Young Coriolanuss story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition and the importance of balancing military prowess with political diplomacy. His rise and fall highlight the complexities of leadership and the consequences of alienating those who stand in opposition.
Although Young Coriolanus meets a tragic end in the play, his character remains a fascinating study of the human condition. His internal struggles and external conflicts make him a compelling figure in the world of Shakespearean tragedy.