Monologue

Volumnia Monologue from Coriolanus

From Coriolanus by William Shakespeare

female · defiant · 1:24 min

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Indeed you shall not. Methinks I hear hither your husband’s drum, See him pluck Aufidius down by th’ hair; As children from a bear, the Volsces shunning him. Methinks I see him stamp thus and call thus: “Come on, you cowards! You were got in fear, Though you were born in Rome.” His bloody brow With his mailed hand then wiping, forth he goes Like to a harvestman that’s tasked to mow Or all or lose his hire. (VIRGILIA: His bloody brow? O Jupiter, no blood!) Away, you fool! It more becomes a man Than gilt his trophy. The breasts of Hecuba, When she did suckle Hector, looked not lovelier Than Hector’s forehead when it spit forth blood At Grecian sword, contemning.—Tell Valeria We are fit to bid her welcome. (Exit Gentlewoman.) (VIRGILIA: Heavens bless my lord from fell Aufidius!) He’ll beat Aufidius’ head below his knee And tread upon his neck. Enter Valeria with an Usher and a Gentlewoman.

About this piece

Volumnia passionately urges her son, Coriolanus, to embrace his role as a warrior, reflecting her fierce pride and determination in the face of conflict.

40s · determination · power · family · honor · war

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