Timon of Athens · Chapter
Scene III explained
Sempronius learns that Timon has been denied by Lucullus, Lucius, and Ventidius, and is angered that he was not approached first.
What happens
Sempronius learns that Timon has been denied by Lucullus, Lucius, and Ventidius, and is angered that he was not approached first. He refuses to help Timon, prioritizing his pride over gratitude. Timon's servant laments the betrayal and the loss of all friends.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
Timon’s discovery of gold triggers his emotional and psychological peak: a furious, misanthropic tirade agains…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Ingratitude
Sempronius and the other lords, having benefited from Timon's generosity, refuse to help him in his need.
- Flattery and Deception
Sempronius disguises his selfish refusal as a matter of honor, revealing the hypocrisy of Timon's fair-weather friends.
Characters to notice
- Sempronius
Refuses to help Timon, offended that he was not the first approached for aid.
- Timon
Referenced as the one seeking help; all his friends have denied him.
- Lucullus
Mentioned as one of the friends who denied Timon.
- Ventidius
Mentioned as a wealthy former debtor who also denied Timon.
- Lord Lucius
Mentioned as one of the friends who denied Timon.
Key passages
“They have all been touch’d and found base metal, for They have all denied him.”
They have all been tested and proven worthless, because they have all refused him.
The servant reports that every friend Timon approached has failed him.
“Who bates mine honour shall not know my coin.”
Anyone who diminishes my honor will not receive my money.
Sempronius declares he will not help Timon because he feels slighted by not being asked first.
