effective in its parallel to the emotional struggles and shifts that have been discussed. Repetition is prevalent in this speech and points to the emotional weight of its content. As previously discussed, Volumnia’s importance and ability to make her son change is emphasized in his repetition of “Mother” as he has caved in and his high emotional level can also be seen in the repetition of “O.” The most significant repetition, however, is that of “Aufidius.” As Coriolanus has begun his appeal to Aufidius for life, Shakespeare has framed that small section of Coriolanus’ speech with “Aufidius” initially, “good Aufidius” directly in the middle, and his name once more in conclusion to the section. This is fitting because the repetition of his name emphasizes his importance in what Coriolanus is asking of him. A similarly effective device is the use of inversions that bring words like “Most dangerously” before the rest of the sentence thus emphasizing the strength and weight of the important words initially in context to the rest of the phrase. Finally, word choice is specifically important to the phrase, “though I cannot make true wars, I’ll frame convenient peace” (l. 190-191). The idea of “true war” correlates to Volumnia describing her son’s action as blinded and childish. The war isn’t “true” to Coriolanus because he has realized his pride had been channeled to false ends. In response and in the anticipation of what Aufidius’ response will be, Coriolanus can “frame convenient peace.” Framing the convenience of peace is effective in this sentence because it is presenting something to Aufidius that might benefit him in a pretty or easily organized way. This eleven-line, three-sectioned speech brings important light to many of the pending questions brought forth through the ...
