Shakespearean tragedy has gravity in today's political arena

It is wonderfully timely that Shakespeare's "Coriolanus" will receive an encore telecast this weekend in the National Theatre's HD series. It is perhaps even more wonderful that Macon's Douglass Theatre is slated to be one of the few theaters in the Southeast -- and the only one in Georgia -- to host this powerful drama about leadership and its relationship with the great masses of the public -- the rabble whom the blunt-spoken Coriolanus will term "the mutable rank-scented many."

Caius Marcius, soon to be honored with the name Coriolanus as the result of his valor, is one of the Roman senators who, at the opening, is trying to deal with the unruly plebeians, angry with their leaders about the deprivations brought on by economic hard times. It is easy enough to see parallels between this situation and our own political climate during the past dozen years.

While some senators attempt to placate the plebeians and call for harmony, the triumphant general Coriolanus takes a contemptuous attitude toward the malcontents. Called away to defend Rome against the invading Volsces, Coriolanus again distinguishes himself by his valor and returns crowned with garland. When the senate names him consul, Coriolanus is obliged to make a public appearance in the forum, but his contempt and arrogance lead to outrage.

Ultimately, even the love of two very different women cannot save a great man from the workings of envy, conspiracy and, especially, his own flaws of character. The hardened warrior is unable to adopt the pose of a man of the people -- for indeed he is not.

This tragedy was originally performed at the Donmar Warehouse, with the well-known Tom Hiddleston in the title role, and Josie Rourke directing.

It's been more than 400 years since Shakespeare penned this work, but as our political candidates compete today for the hearts of voters, the production reminds us that those who kiss-up (in today's lingo) may not necessarily be those with the strength to lead the republic in perilous times.

"Coriolanus"

When: 3 p.m. Nov. 15

Where: Douglass Theatre, 355 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

Cost: $20 adults, $15 students and seniors

Information: 478-742-2000

This story was originally published November 12, 2015 at 4:11 PM with the headline "Shakespearean tragedy has gravity in today's political arena ."