A Dictionary of Greek and Roman biography and mythology

consul B. C. 501, in which year a dictator was first appointed on account of the conspiracy of the Latin states against Rome. (Liv. 2.18; Dionys. A. R. 5.50; Zonar. 7.13.) According to some accounts, he is said to have dedicated the temple of Saturn, in 497, in accordance with a decree of the senate. (Dionys. A. R. 6.1.) Auruncus was consul again, in 493, and entered upon his office during the secession of the plebs, who had occupied the Aventine. He carried on war successfully against the Volscians, and took several of their towns. It was during this campaign that C. Marcius first distinguished himself at Corioli, whence he obtained the surname of Coriolanus. (Liv. 2.33; Dionys. A. R. 6.49, 91, 94; Cic. de Rep. 2.33, pro Balb. 23; Plut. Cor. 8.) It was probably on account of Coriolanus having served under him that Auruncus is represented as one of the ambassadors sent to Coriolanus when the latter was marching against Rome. (Dionys. A. R. 8.22.)