# Scene II explained — Coriolanus

> Chapter companion for Coriolanus by William Shakespeare.

## What happens

Menenius attempts to plead with Coriolanus at the Volscian camp, but Coriolanus, now allied with Aufidius, coldly rejects him, refusing to hear his suit and asserting that his loyalties lie with the Volscians.

## Themes in this chapter

### Exile and Identity

Coriolanus's rejection of Menenius and his claim that 'Wife, mother, child, I know not' underscores his complete severance from his Roman identity.

### Pride and Arrogance

Coriolanus's refusal to listen to Menenius, despite their past friendship, highlights his stubborn pride and unwillingness to compromise.

## Character check-ins

### Menenius Agrippa

Menenius tries to use his former friendship with Coriolanus to gain entry and plead for Rome, but is rebuffed.

### Caius Marcius Coriolanus

Coriolanus denies knowing his family and friends, stating his affairs are 'servanted to others' and refuses to hear Menenius.

### Tullus Aufidius

Aufidius observes Coriolanus's rejection of Menenius, noting his 'constant temper.'

## Key lines

> Wife, mother, child, I know not. My affairs Are servanted to others: though I owe My revenge properly, my remission lies In Volscian breasts.

I no longer acknowledge my family; my loyalty is now to the Volscians, and only they can grant forgiveness.

_Coriolanus declares his complete break from his Roman ties and his submission to Volscian authority._

> Mine ears against your suits are stronger than Your gates against my force.

I am more deaf to your pleas than your gates are resistant to my attack.

_Coriolanus emphasizes his unwavering resolve against Menenius's entreaties._

## Links

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