Gaius Marcius was a legendary Roman general who earned the name Coriolanus after capturing the city of Corioli. Despite his military brilliance, his arrogance and disdain for the common people led to his exile from Rome. Consumed by bitterness, Coriolanus joined his former enemies, the Volscians, and led their armies to the gates of Rome, intending to burn the city to the ground. The Roman Senate sent ambassadors and priests to plead for peace, but Coriolanus remained cold and unmoved. It was only when his mother, Veturia, and his wife, Volumnia, approached the camp that his resolve faltered. Veturia confronted her son, asking whether she was meeting a son or an enemy, and reminded him that he could only conquer Rome by stepping over her corpse. Overcome by 'pietas'—the sacred Roman duty to family and country—Coriolanus wept and withdrew his forces. He spared Rome, knowing that his retreat would likely cost him his life at the hands of the Volscians.
True virtue and greatness are found in placing the welfare of one's family and country above personal pride and vengeance.
Questions about this story
What is the moral of Coriolanus and His Mother?
The moral centers on the Roman concept of pietas, illustrating that loyalty to one's mother and homeland should outweigh personal ego. It teaches that even the most powerful warriors must submit to moral and familial obligations.
Why was Coriolanus exiled from Rome?
He was exiled primarily due to his extreme arrogance and his opposition to the rights of the plebeians (commoners). He specifically attempted to use a grain shortage as leverage to strip the people of their political power, leading to his banishment.
Who were the Volscians in this story?
The Volscians were an Italic tribe and one of the most persistent enemies of early Rome. Coriolanus defected to them to lead their armies against his own people as an act of ultimate betrayal and revenge.
What happened to Coriolanus after he spared Rome?
Ancient accounts vary on his fate. The most famous version suggests he was assassinated by the Volscians for his perceived betrayal, while others claim he lived out a long, miserable life in exile, haunted by his choices.
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