Damon and Pythias (play)

Written circa 1564 and first printed in 1571, the play chronicles the Greek friendship story of Damon and Pythias.

[2] The play begins with the philosopher Aristippus musing on his newfound position as a courtier in King Dionyusius's court in Syracuse.

Damon and Pythias learn about the paranoia and tyranny of King Dionysius and his willingness to kill his subjects.

The scene shifts back to the gallows, where Pythias and Groano await the king's final judgement.

The play ends with Eubulus throwing Carisophus from the court and delivering a speech on the virtues of true friendship.

[4] This notion is seen as the pinnacle of human affection, and occurred between two men of similar social stature who love each other for the sake of that virtue.