The ballet tells the history of the general Coriolanus, and his mother Veturia. The popular Coriolanus is banned from Rome and sent to live with the people of Volcus, whom he has once oppressed. He decides to revenge himself against the people of Rome. Following a brief introduction, the Moderato Molto portrays the training of Volcus' army. They are preparing for war: Andante Ritmico. Coriolanus' mother surrounded by a crowd of woman, begs her son not to wage war against Rome: Lento Rubato. Coriolanus then decides to withdraw his troops: Allegro Energico. Afterwards, Volcus' frustrated army kills Coriolanus. Veturia grieves over the death of her son. This is followed by the glorification of the hero, who prefers death, then turning against his own people.
