Coriolanus, arguably Shakespeare's most political play, depicts the tragic downfall of a noble, great man who, victorious in war for Rome, is unable to overcome his pride towards the people in peace. The title vignette Ex Bello Pax alludes to this conflict, as it shows the helmet of a warrior who knows how to repurpose his armor in peace as a beehive – a skill that Coriolanus completely lacks. His inability to adapt to the demands of the day even in peace brings Rome, and then himself, into grave danger. Alongside the personal tragedy of the protagonist, the central focus of the drama is the conflict between the people and their generals/rulers. Here, Shakespeare had contemporary references in mind that remain relevant to this day.