Coriolanus as a protagonist.

Coriolanus is both the protagonist and antagonist in the text. He is his own worst enemy. As the protagonist, he is harsh, determined, and unwilling to compromise on his personal values. He expects everyone to push themselves to the limit.... to do their best; mediocrity is not acceptable. Coriolanus is also a straightforward character. He makes no secret of his thoughts or feelings, and he is unafraid of voicing his viewpoint..... one of the things that leads to his downfall.

Coriolanus is courageous, fearless, and honorable.... he is heroic. He is also immature, unbending, and prideful. All things of these things combined create a respected warrior, whose feelings of superiority and contempt for those he considers beneath him, lead to his exile from Rome.