Timon of Athens, a play by William Shakespeare, tells how a gentleman's generosity is taken advantage of. Timon, a noble Athenian, is very wealthy. He is very charitable towards his fellow Athenians. He loans his money to those in need with no questions. Yet, most of Timon's "friends" are takers. They are willing to obtain all of Timon's money but return nothing. They care much more about Timon's prosperity, and their own, than his well-being. In Timon of Athens, Timon transitions from a state of giving to a state of needing.

In the beginning of the play, Timon is greatly respected and very altruistic. People of many different occupations come from all over Athens to visit Timon. The Athenian painter, poet, and jeweler come with their arts to Timon's house. Of course, almost everyone who comes to visit Timon wants something. Timon is so generous, he nonchalantly gives...