# Scene II explained — Timon of Athens

> Chapter companion for Timon of Athens by William Shakespeare.

## What happens

Two Senators receive a messenger reporting Alcibiades' imminent approach with his army. The messenger reveals that Alcibiades has sent a courier to Timon's cave seeking his alliance against Athens. Other Senators return from Timon with no hope of his help, and they prepare for the city's likely fall.

## Themes in this chapter

### Fortune and Reversal

Athens, once powerful, now faces imminent defeat as Timon's former friend Alcibiades marches against the city, reversing their fortunes.

### Friendship and Betrayal

Alcibiades seeks Timon's alliance against Athens, highlighting the fractured loyalties and betrayals that define the play's social landscape.

## Character check-ins

### First Senator

Receives the messenger's report about Alcibiades' forces and expresses concern about Timon's absence.

### Messenger

Delivers news of Alcibiades' approaching army and reveals that a courier was sent to Timon's cave seeking his alliance.

### Alcibiades

Mentioned as leading the army against Athens and sending letters to Timon for support.

### Timon

Referenced as the one Alcibiades seeks to recruit; the Senators report no hope of his return.

## Key lines

> Thou hast painfully discover’d: are his files As full as thy report?

You have reported with great effort: are his ranks as numerous as you say?

_The First Senator questions the messenger about the size of Alcibiades' army._

> I met a courier, one mine ancient friend; Whom, though in general part we were opposed, Yet our old love made a particular force, And made us speak like friends

I encountered a messenger, an old friend of mine; even though we were on opposite sides, our past friendship compelled us to talk as allies.

_The messenger describes meeting a courier from Alcibiades, emphasizing how personal bonds can overcome political enmity._

> No talk of Timon, nothing of him expect. The enemies’ drum is heard, and fearful scouring Doth choke the air with dust: in, and prepare: Ours is the fall, I fear; our foes the snare.

Do not speak of Timon, expect nothing from him. The enemy's drum sounds, and the dust of their advance fills the air: go inside and prepare. I fear we will fall; our enemies have set the trap.

_The returning Senators announce that Timon will not help, and urge the city to brace for defeat._

## Links

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