Timon of Athens facts for kids
Timon of Athens is a play written by the famous English writer William Shakespeare. It is a type of play called a tragedy. This means it tells a serious story, often about a hero who faces big problems and a sad ending. Shakespeare probably got some ideas for this play from an old story called The Misanthrope by Lucian.
Contents
About the Play
Timon of Athens tells the story of a very rich and generous man named Timon. He lives in ancient Athens, a famous city in Greece. Timon loves to give gifts and throw big parties for his friends. He helps anyone who asks him for money. He believes all his friends are loyal and true.
Timon's Troubles
Timon gives away almost all his money. He expects his friends to help him when he needs it. But when Timon asks them for help, they all turn him down. They make excuses and refuse to lend him money. This makes Timon very angry and sad. He feels betrayed by everyone he trusted.
Timon's Change
Because of this betrayal, Timon becomes a misanthrope. A misanthrope is someone who dislikes all people. He leaves the city and goes to live alone in a cave. He becomes very bitter and angry at the world. He finds some gold, but he doesn't want it. He just wants to be left alone.
Important Lessons
The play teaches us about friendship, loyalty, and how money can change people. It shows how easily trust can be broken. It also makes us think about what true wealth really means. Is it money, or is it good friends?
When Was It Written?
Experts believe that Shakespeare probably wrote Timon of Athens between 1607 and 1608. This was during a busy time in his life when he wrote many of his famous plays.
Where Can You Find It?
The play was first printed in a special book called the First Folio in 1623. The First Folio was the first collection of almost all of Shakespeare's plays. It was put together by his friends after he died. Without this book, many of his plays might have been lost forever!
Images for kids
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Timon turns away from society (1803 engraving)
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Drawing by Johann Heinrich Ramberg of Timon and the gold
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The Steward (played by Lore Dijkman) in a 2013 Dutch performance
See also
In Spanish: Timón de Atenas para niños
