# Letter 127: The Marchioness de Merteuil to the Viscount de Valmont explained — Dangerous Liaisons

> Chapter companion for Dangerous Liaisons by Pierre Choderlos de Laclos.

## What happens

Merteuil angrily rejects Valmont's proposition that she become one of his mistresses, asserting her independence and pride. She mocks his obsession with Tourvel and his condescending attitude, and declares that she prefers Danceny's devotion over Valmont's arrogance. She refuses to be relegated to a secondary role and warns Valmont not to take her consent for granted.

## Themes in this chapter

### Gender and Power Dynamics

Merteuil asserts her power and refuses to be subordinated to Valmont, challenging the patriarchal expectation that she should accept a secondary role.

### Seduction and Manipulation

The letter reveals the manipulative games between Merteuil and Valmont, as she uses wit and pride to reject his advances and maintain control.

## Character check-ins

### Marchioness de Merteuil

Writes a scathing reply to Valmont, rejecting his proposal and asserting her autonomy.

### Viscount de Valmont

Recipient of Merteuil's letter; his proposition is harshly criticized and dismissed.

### Madame de Tourvel

Referenced sarcastically as Valmont's 'adorable' and 'celestial' conquest.

### Cecilia Volanges

Mentioned as another of Valmont's targets, with Merteuil mocking his concern for her opinion.

### Chevalier Danceny

Praised by Merteuil as a devoted lover who sacrifices for her, in contrast to Valmont.

## Key lines

> I may have heretofore formed the design of singly performing the functions of a whole seraglio; but it never entered my head to become only a part of one

I have considered managing multiple lovers myself, but I never intended to be just one of your many mistresses.

_Merteuil rejects Valmont's proposal to be a shared lover, emphasizing her desire for autonomy._

> Should I sacrifice an inclination, and a new one, for you? And in what manner, pray? Why, waiting for my turn, like a submissive slave, the sublime favours of your highness.

Why would I give up a new romantic interest for you, only to wait patiently for your attention like a servant?

_Merteuil mocks Valmont's arrogance and his expectation that she would accept a subordinate role._

## Links

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- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters