# Scene II explained — Coriolanus

> Chapter companion for Coriolanus by William Shakespeare.

## What happens

In the Volscian senate-house, Tullus Aufidius and senators discuss Rome's awareness of their plans. Aufidius reveals intelligence that Rome has raised an army led by Cominius, Marcius, and Titus Lartius, likely targeting the Volscians. The senators authorize Aufidius to lead their forces, and Aufidius vows to confront his old enemy Caius Marcius in combat.

## Themes in this chapter

### Political Manipulation

Aufidius and the senators strategize based on intercepted intelligence, highlighting the manipulative and secretive nature of political and military planning.

### Honor and Valor

Aufidius's personal oath to fight Caius Marcius to the death underscores the theme of personal honor and martial valor.

## Character check-ins

### Tullus Aufidius

Aufidius discusses Roman intelligence and prepares to lead the Volscian army, expressing a personal vow to fight Caius Marcius.

### Senator

First Senator questions Aufidius's opinion and later reassures him about guarding Corioli.

### Senator

Second Senator urges Aufidius to take command and suggests the Romans may not be fully prepared.

## Key lines

> If we and Caius Marcius chance to meet, 'Tis sworn between us we shall ever strike Till one can do no more.

If I encounter Caius Marcius, we have sworn to fight until one of us is dead.

_Aufidius declares his personal vendetta and readiness for single combat with Marcius._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/coriolanus_se/chapters/act-i-scene-ii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/coriolanus_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/coriolanus_se/chapters