http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jRneDnm6Lck
1) How is Aufidius’ domestic life a contrast to that of Coriolanus? What does Coriolanus look like when he presents himself at Aufidius’ home?
- In Rome, Coriolanus was viewed as a godly figure to be seen as an idol due to his achievements in war. He has a loving wife and an encouraging mother in aspects of war and glory. He draws his motivation from the two women and further fuels it with his rivalry towards Aufidius. Aufidius in his domestic life in regards to this scene seems to have the pull of the people but is not in as high regards as his counterpart. This comparison can be shown in regards to how “winners” and “losers” are considered in today’s society (whether its politicians or even sports players) as the “winners” are treated with glory and the “losers” while still backed by their people, have a more tainted view of their standing and accomplishments. What is ironic about the situation is that Coriolanus is driven to dress in very poor clothing and muffled (as opposed to his normal war gear in which his scars are highly visible as trophies) and he is forced to request an alliance with his rival to rebel against his home country. The muffling and clothing represent a slight turn in Coriolanus’ character as he is humbled whether by force or choice to fight against those who oppressed him.
2) How are the serving men characterized? How would you compare them to the citizens of Rome?
- As in many Shakespearean plays, these nameless characters are offered as a break from all of the chaos within the plot and provide humor to the common people. The serving men bear a correlation to the citizens of Rome as they are under the “aristocratic” nature of the two generals and consider them masters. This simple fact represents that they don’t bear the rank of the higher class men, but they are not afraid to defend their master. In seeing Coriolanus as a poor-man and an invader, they are not hesitant in trying to deny him entry to their master’s home. The citizens of Rome and serving men both are people who are influenced by the higher power in the way they act (Roman citizens in fighting for the Republic and in turn against Coriolanus, and the serving men fighting for their master Aufidius). All in all they represent the common man and offer opinions on how citizens of the time would react.
3) Explain their opinions of the two heroes.
- They feel very disgusted by Coriolanus’ social skills as he is dressed morbidly and interacts with the serving men terribly, but they are instantaneously star struck upon finding out his identity. It is a symbol that the opinion of this man is god-like due to his prowess in war and that seems to be the benchmark of honor and glory within the contemporary society. Due to Aufidius’ constant failure in battle (in specific with Coriolanus), he is viewed as a lesser soldier in the views of the serving man and is weaker due to his obstacles in battle. These opinions of the heroes from the serving men stress the importance of how the characters are judged mainly in terms of battle and war.
Talk about action packed! That kick required a stunt double. I’m just kidding, and on a more serious note I want to agree with the comment ” The muffling and clothing represent a slight turn in Coriolanus’ character as he is humbled whether by force or choice to fight against those who oppressed him.” There has certainly been a change in Coriolanus’ character and the audience begins to question whether anything good will come from this alliance. However we all know this play is a tragedy, but the development of the action is interesting to witness.
Great job! The video was very well done, I liked how you guys took the effort to change scenes when required. I also agree with your interpretation of the citizens, how they’re nameless mouth pieces of criticism, hidden behind humor, and most importantly they are part of the “collective” mindset. Nice reading!
The action was great! You guys really brought the scene to life with the kicks, scene changes, and all the moving around. It helped me to better understand what was going on and what the characters were doing. Also, it was interesting to see the multiple roles being played by the same characters, good work. I think the environment you guys chose to do it in fit in as well. It probably is busy like that around the palace as well, with people coming in and out constantly.
I was happy to see Coriolanus muffled and then to see how Arki really was transformed when he played one of the servants. Your comments about the importance of the costume are excellent. We’ll talk more about the points raised by Ryan and Jessie in response to the speech with which Aufidius greets Coriolanus, once he recognizes him. Why is it so hard, by the way, for these two men, who’ve fought with one another so many times, to figure out whom they’re with when they see each other face to face?
This video was really good. There were some really great performances and I really enjoyed the video. I really liked the location and also thought everyone spoke clearly and made the video easy to follow and understand. I really liked the analysis this group gave about the leadership or Coriolanus and Aufidius. I also liked how the group compared Audifius to a monarch. Its something I never thought of and made it easier for me to understand the character better.
Really Great video guys! The reading was great, and was packed with action. I really liked your comparison between Coriolanus and Aufidius, and how you compared it with “winners” and “losers” in todays age. I had never really made that comparison before but after reading your assessment I was able to understand better. Awesome job!
I really loved the setting. The size of the space, the artwork, and the somewhat gloomy dimness of the entrance helped add to the anticipation of the action. The humor with the servers really comes across. If you’ve ever worked as a waiter – you’ll know the gossipy nature of this scene is true to form. Najeeb’s voice was just beautiful – so clear and full – perfect for theatre. I also thought the presentation in class was the best so far – with alot to think about and I really liked all the contemporary comparisons to sports stars and political figures.