Shakespeare Act 1

What is Shakespeare’s larger purpose in his characterization of Coriolanus in Act I?

Shakespeare has several purposes, in his characterization in Act 1. Firstly, Shakespeare characterizes specific characters with certain traits, which point out their fatal flaws and strengths, and may give a signal of what is to come in the future in terms of getting in conflicts. Shakespeare foreshadows several conflicts in Act 1 by characterizing Coriolanus to be a man who is very proud and rash. This proudness and rashness of Coriolanus, shows him getting into a fight with the civilians and may foreshadow future conflicts with the citizens. Next, Shakespeare depicts the conflict of Coriolanus and Titus Aufidus. This conflict begins now by Titus praising Coriolanus's strength and war skills, and Coriolanus reciprocates this as well by saying "Tis not a man I would rather fight".  

The next purpose of Shakespeare's characterization is to depict a plot as well. By this, I mean that certain characters have been introduced in the begging who will cause trouble in the future to Coriolanus. The characterization serves as an introduction to the play and Shakespeare starts of the plot by developing dueling characters. The dueling characters serve as conflict makers and develop the plot significantly.

Next, Shakespeare's characterization has a deeper meaning, which has its roots in British History. Evidence, to suggest this is when the main character Coriolanus, is reminiscent of King James I, who had a similar rash, rude and proud personality as does Coriolanus. King James, didn't enjoy plays and was highly oriented on being manly. Coriolanus's characterization is like this as well. King James was ruling in the time of an absolutist monarchy, so he had the right to do whatever he pleased. This power is reminiscint of the power the Romans had over the plebians and thier full control on society. Also, 

Lastly, the corn riot in the begging of the play, is seen to be similar to that of those in England in 1607. Shakespeare's depiction of the setting serves to portray a deeper political meaning and even represent those voices in England, who were suppressed by the absolutist Monarchy.