Timon of Athens

“Timon of Athens” was first published in the “First Folio” in 1623 and was likely written by William Shakespeare in 1605 or 1606. Often regarded as one of the more difficult of Shakespeare’s plays to categorize, “Timon of Athens” blends elements of comedy with components of tragedy in Timon’s allegorical downfall and death. The play depicts an Athenian man, Timon, who is popular and wealthy and who selflessly gives away his possessions to a large number of false friends. He extends help to everyone, from a friend in a debtor’s prison to a servant who needs money so he can marry his chosen bride. Timon has given away all of his wealth and possessions and soon finds himself in need, yet all of his friends turn their backs on him. Timon feels deeply betrayed and becomes savagely bitter, living the rest of his life in seclusion outside of the city. Considered one of Shakespeare’s more challenging works, it is now largely believed to be due to Thomas Middleton’s likely collaboration in writing the play. “Timon of Athens” remains compelling to this day in its intense and unrelenting condemnation of greed and corruption in society. This edition includes a biographical afterword, annotations by Henry N. Hudson, and an introduction by Charles Harold Herford.