Notes

The play opens with a passage in the pattern of the first scene of Anthony and Cleopatra. This scene forms the exposition of the play. It not only introduces the reader to the main character of the play, that is Timon, but also indicates the source of tragedy in the play. Alcibiades, the main character of the subplot, as well as the other important characters, make their entry in the opening scene of the play.

The minor characters discuss the shortcomings of Timon. The poet, painter, jeweler, and merchant are the first to appear. Each of these individuals wants to sell their articles to Timon because they know that Timon will pay more for them than any other person. The opening scene is the most obvious pointer to the meaning of the play. If the readers understand this scene well then they will be able to sense what is going to happen later.

TimonÂ’s generosity and concern is seen in his attitude towards Ventidius who is in trouble. Timon not only pays off the debts, but offers him more money if he needs it. The readers see another instance of TimonÂ’s generosity, when he comes to the assistance of his servant Lucilius, by deciding to give him wealth equal to the dowry that will be given by the father of the girl that Lucilius wants to marry. These two incidents highlight TimonÂ’s generosity and also his reckless way of spending his wealth.

Timon’s so called ‘friends are prepared to give cause they know they will receive more in return. Those who readily follow Timon in his moment of exaltation will follow the shift and change of his mood and finally abandon him in his fall.

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