Coriolanus | Menenius (Character Analysis)

A Roman senator, he is a close friend to Coriolanus. He sees himself as Coriolanus's mentor and adviser. Menenius is constantly urging his friend to hold his temper in check, to appear humble in front of the people, and to moderate his harsh language. In part, Menenius does so because he understands the need for tact and the effectiveness of mild words. He also wants desperately to avoid an uprising by the people. He believes that "the violent fit o' the time" (III.ii.33) may lead to civil war unless Coriolanus answers the charges against him respectfully. Menenius knows the value of...

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