Dangerous Liaisons · Chapter
Letter 11: The Presidente de Tourvel to Madame Volanges explained
Madame de Tourvel writes to Madame de Volanges defending Valmont's behavior at the chateau, describing him as good-natured and respectful, contrary to his reputation.
What happens
Madame de Tourvel writes to Madame de Volanges defending Valmont's behavior at the chateau, describing him as good-natured and respectful, contrary to his reputation. She dismisses concerns about his intentions, notes his friendship with Madame de Merteuil, and politely declines to hasten his departure, citing her duty to her husband and respect for Madame de Rosemonde.
Themes in this chapter
Hypocrisy and Appearance vs. Reality
Tourvel's description of Valmont as 'good-natured' and harmless contrasts sharply with his known reputation as a libertine, highlighting the theme of deceptive appearances.
Seduction and Manipulation
Valmont's calculated behavior—avoiding overt advances while charming Tourvel—exemplifies his manipulative seduction strategy, even as she insists he poses no threat.
Characters to notice
- Madame de Tourvel
Writes to Madame de Volanges, defending Valmont's conduct and explaining her reasons for staying at the chateau.
- Madame de Volanges
Recipient of the letter; Tourvel addresses her warnings about Valmont and her advice to shorten his visit.
- Viscount de Valmont
Defended by Tourvel as good-natured and respectful, with no amorous advances; his past and friendship with Merteuil are discussed.
- Marchioness de Merteuil
Mentioned as the subject of Valmont's praise and apparent friendship, which Tourvel initially mistook for love.
- Madame de Rosemonde
Valmont's aunt; Tourvel notes the difficulty of asking her to send her nephew away.
Key passages
“The formidable Mr. de Valmont, the terror of our sex, seems to have laid aside his murderous arms, before he entered this castle.”
The dangerous Valmont, who frightens women, appears to have abandoned his harmful intentions upon arriving here.
Tourvel ironically frames Valmont's reputation as a predator, while claiming he has become harmless.
“Far from having formed any design, he did not even appear to have brought any claims; and the accomplishments of an amiable man, which his enemies even give to him, almost vanish to give place to the character of good-natured creature.”
He has no plans or demands; his reputation as a charming man fades, replaced by a simple, kind nature.
Tourvel dismisses warnings, asserting Valmont's current behavior contradicts his notorious image.
“Probably it is the country air has wrought this miracle; one thing I can assure you, though incessantly with me, even seemingly pleased with my company, not a word that has the least tendency to love has escaped him.”
Perhaps the countryside has changed him; he spends much time with me and seems to enjoy my company, yet never speaks of love.
Tourvel attributes Valmont's restraint to the rural setting, reinforcing her belief in his innocence.
“I don’t know, but it appears to me, that the man who is capable of so constant a friendship for a deserving woman, cannot be an abandoned libertine.”
I think a man who can be a loyal friend to a virtuous woman cannot be a complete libertine.
Tourvel uses Valmont's friendship with Merteuil as evidence of his moral character, unaware of their true relationship.