Coriolanus | Coriolanus

In the essay that follows, Michael Goldman analyzes the character of Coriolanus and, similarly, the nature of Shakespeare's method of characterization in the play.

Very few critical evaluations of Coriolanus have been able to set aside the significance of its complex, paradoxical protagonist. Michael Goldman, in assessing Shakespeare's method of characterization in the play, has summarized the problematic nature of Coriolanus: he possesses a conflicting blend of heroic and ironic qualities that serve the warrior well on the battlefield, but have disastrous effects within society. Gail Kern Paster shares the consensus view that Coriolanus is presented through contrasts with other characters in the play—primarily Volumnia and...

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