# Scene II explained — Timon of Athens

> Chapter companion for Timon of Athens by William Shakespeare.

## What happens

Flavius and the servants lament Timon's fall from prosperity, as they realize their master has lost everything and been abandoned by his false friends. Flavius shares his remaining wealth among the servants and vows to continue serving Timon.

## Themes in this chapter

### Friendship and Betrayal

The servants and Flavius contrast the loyalty of Timon's household with the betrayal of his so-called friends who have abandoned him.

### Fortune and Reversal

Timon's dramatic fall from wealth to poverty is mourned, highlighting the swift reversal of fortune.

## Character check-ins

### Flavius

Steward who shares his last wealth with the servants and pledges to follow and serve Timon despite his ruin.

## Key lines

> We have seen better days.

We have known more prosperous times.

_Flavius uses this phrase as a shared lament for Timon's fallen fortunes._

> Who would not wish to be from wealth exempt, Since riches point to misery and contempt?

Who wouldn't prefer to be free from wealth, since riches lead to suffering and scorn?

_Flavius reflects on the curse of wealth that attracts false friends and leads to ruin._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/timon_of_athens_se/chapters/act-iv-scene-ii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/timon_of_athens_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/timon_of_athens_se/chapters