You are NOT a man unless you are hurt!

"VOLUMNIA: O, he is wounded; I thank the gods for't."
(II.i.99)

"There will be large cicatrices to show the people when he shall stand for his place." (II.i.123-124)

It is almost disturbing how Volumnia takes such pleasure in the fact that her son is hurt. One would think that she would be much warmer and having the same reaction as Virgilia, worried about Martius/Coriolanus and his well-being. Instead, she is overjoyed when she hears the news that he is wounded, almost as though he is of no value unless he has scars to show off to show how strong he is. I wonder if Volumnia is truly proud of her son, or if she is more concerned with the elevated reputation she gains from having a "hero" as her son. Is it sincere admiration of his strength, or is it ego? As of now, I really feel that it is the latter.

Also, I find it kind of funny how having Coriolanus show the people his scars would be enough for him to gain their support and become consul. In a way, it reminds me of the Mulvey article again where the body is something to be looked at and not much else. Only this time it is in reference to a man and a position of power.