Coriolanus: Act 4, Scene 7
The recap, key beats, and evidence for Act 4, Scene 7, without reopening the whole book.
Section recap · 1 min read
What happens in Act 4, Scene 7.
Aufidius speaks privately with one of his lieutenants about Coriolanus. He admits that Coriolanus has already won the loyalty of the Volscian soldiers and is outshining him. Aufidius begins planning how to bring Coriolanus down once Rome is dealt with, listing the character flaws he intends to exploit.
The beats worth remembering.
Aufidius Admits He Is Being Overshadowed
Aufidius tells his lieutenant that the Volscian troops now prefer Coriolanus, and that Coriolanus behaves as if the whole campaign is his alone. The resentment is clear.
Aufidius Diagnoses Coriolanus's Fatal Flaws
Aufidius offers a surprisingly analytical breakdown of Coriolanus, saying his pride and inability to adapt make him dangerous to himself regardless of which side he is on.
The Trap Is Set
Aufidius decides he will wait until after any victory over Rome, then use Coriolanus's own behavior as the grounds to destroy him. The alliance is already marked for an end.
The moments you can actually use later.
Aufidius Notes That Coriolanus Takes Over
Aufidius tells his lieutenant that Coriolanus has effectively made himself the leader of the Volscian army without being given that role, and that the soldiers adore him for it.
Aufidius Lists Coriolanus's Self-Destructive Qualities
Aufidius describes Coriolanus as someone whose pride, inability to read situations, and refusal to compromise will always turn people against him, whatever the circumstances.
What to carry forward.
Aufidius Is the Play's Coldest Politician
Where Coriolanus cannot hide what he feels, Aufidius calculates everything. This scene is the clearest proof. Students comparing the two men should use it.
Coriolanus Cannot Change Even Among Enemies
Aufidius points out that Coriolanus acts the same way with the Volscians as he did with the Romans. His rigidity is not a Roman problem; it follows him everywhere.
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How this guide is built
This guide is built from the original text to help you get oriented fast. It is designed for recall, paper planning, and getting unstuck, but it is still a paraphrased guide, not a substitute for the reading itself. Double-check anything important before you turn in formal work.
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