Timon d'Athènes

This listening experience dives into the ancient figure of Timon of Athens, whose name became a byword for misanthropy. Drawing on Plutarch’s account, it traces how the bitter turn of a generous Athenian inspired Shakespeare’s compact tragedy. The narration sets the historical backdrop of the Peloponnesian War and introduces the contrasting cynic Apemantus, whose sharp commentary sharpens Timon’s isolation.

The guide then explores the moral tension at the heart of the story: is Timon’s downfall a tragic loss to be mourned, or a deserved consequence of his own excess? By examining the play’s tight structure—focused on a single, revelatory episode—it highlights the stark shift from wealth to bitterness. Listeners are invited to reflect on the fragile nature of friendship, the danger of flattery, and the timeless question of how far one can withdraw from society.

Through vivid readings of the original French translation and insightful commentary, the work brings the ancient lament to life for modern ears. It offers a thoughtful lens on how personal betrayal can echo through centuries, making Timon’s story surprisingly relevant today.