Coriolanus · Chapter
Scene IV explained
Coriolanus, disguised and in mean apparel, arrives in Antium and asks a citizen for directions to Aufidius's house.
What happens
Coriolanus, disguised and in mean apparel, arrives in Antium and asks a citizen for directions to Aufidius's house. He reflects on the fickleness of friendship and enmity, declaring his hatred for Rome and his willingness to serve Aufidius or die by his hand.
Themes in this chapter
Exile and Identity
Coriolanus, now an exile, disguises himself and rejects his Roman identity, declaring his love for the enemy town of Antium.
Political Manipulation
Coriolanus reflects on the ease with which sworn friends become bitter enemies and foes become allies, highlighting the instability of political loyalties.
Characters to notice
- Caius Marcius Coriolanus
Disguised and in mean apparel, he seeks out Aufidius in Antium, reflecting on the instability of alliances and declaring his love for the enemy town.
- Tullus Aufidius
Mentioned as the host of a feast for the nobles of Antium; Coriolanus seeks him out.
- First Citizen
A citizen of Antium who directs Coriolanus to Aufidius's house.
Key passages
“O world, thy slippery turns! Friends now fast sworn, Whose double bosoms seem to wear one heart... shall within this hour, On a dissension of a doit, break out To bitterest enmity”
Coriolanus marvels at how quickly the closest friends can become bitter enemies over a trivial disagreement.
Reflects on the fickleness of human relationships and political alliances.
“My birth-place hate I, and my love's upon This enemy town. I'll enter: if he slay me, He does fair justice; if he give me way, I'll do his country service.”
Coriolanus declares his hatred for Rome and his loyalty to Antium, accepting the risk of death or service to Aufidius.
Shows Coriolanus's complete rejection of Rome and his willingness to serve its enemy.