Act 1, Scene 1 Summary

It is now seven years later and Dion and Margaret are at home in a conventional house. Dion's mask has now aged and is almost evil looking in its intensity while Margaret's mask remains the same. Dion had sold his share of his father's company when Mr. Anthony died and Dion and Margaret had lived in Europe for a few years. Dion has not succeeded at his career as an artist and the couple has exhausted their savings and has settled into a suburban life complete with monotony and three children.

Margaret's desperation grows as Dion does not pursue employment and the family's resources have dwindled to an uncomfortable state. Margaret tells Dion that she has run into Billy who suggested that he and Dion meet to discuss Dion's working at Billy's firm. Dion is furious that Margaret has dragged Billy...