what is the theme or centralidea of the play'Damon nad Pythias
Answers
rowseNotessearch
Search for any book or any question
HOMEWORK HELP > LITERATURE
How does the theme of "Damon and Pythias" help to develop a specific idea about the overall story?
print Print document PDF list Cite
Expert Answers
KJTRACY eNotes educator| CERTIFIED EDUCATOR
Events and Theme
At its core, "Damon and Pythius" is a tale about the power of friendship. Damon and Pythias are such close friends that it was said that one would never betray the other. Even if such a betrayal had occurred, the friends shared such an intimate bond that neither of them would have believed or accepted the truth. It is this very bond that is tested when the cruel tyrant Dionysius falsely accuses Pythius of treason. After sentencing Pythius to execution, the man begs for a few days to settle his affairs and ensure that his family will be taken care of. Dionysius agrees only under the condition that Pythius will send a hostage to be executed in his place if he flees.
