Monologue

Volumnia Monologue from Coriolanus

From Coriolanus by William Shakespeare

female · defiant · 1:38 min

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If it be honour in your wars to seem The same you are not, which for your best ends You adopt your policy, how is it less or worse That it shall hold companionship in peace With honour as in war, since that to both It stands in like request? (CORIOLANUS: Why force you this?) Because that now it lies you on to speak To th’ people, not by your own instruction, Nor by th’ matter which your heart prompts you, But with such words that are but rooted in Your tongue, though but bastards and syllables Of no allowance to your bosom’s truth. Now, this no more dishonours you at all Than to take in a town with gentle words, Which else would put you to your fortune and The hazard of much blood. I would dissemble with my nature where My fortunes and my friends at stake required I should do so in honour. I am in this Your wife, your son, these senators, the nobles; And you will rather show our general louts How you can frown than spend a fawn upon ’em For the inheritance of their loves and safeguard Of what that want might ruin.

About this piece

Volumnia urges her son Coriolanus to speak to the people, emphasizing the importance of political strategy over personal truth, reflecting the tension between familial loyalty and public duty.

40s · determination · power · family · honor · identity

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