# Letter 152: 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 responds sarcastically to Valmont's accusatory letter, dismissing his jealousy and threats. She defends her independence and refusal to remarry, mocks his possessiveness, and refuses to justify her actions regarding Danceny. She suggests Valmont has changed for the worse and that she will only receive him when he becomes charming again.

## Themes in this chapter

### Gender and Power Dynamics

Merteuil asserts her independence and control over her own choices, challenging Valmont's attempt to dominate her.

### Seduction and Manipulation

Merteuil manipulates Valmont by withholding information and playing on his jealousy, while mocking his principles.

## Character check-ins

### Marchioness de Merteuil

Author of the letter; defends her autonomy and mocks Valmont's jealousy.

### Viscount de Valmont

Recipient; accused of being jealous and less charming than before.

### Chevalier Danceny

Mentioned as a rival; Merteuil implies she has given him her word for two days.

## Key lines

> It was not, I assure you, for want of several advantageous matches being offered to me; it was solely that no one should have a right to control me.

I didn't remarry because I wanted no one to have authority over me.

_Merteuil explains her reason for remaining unmarried._

> The Valmont I loved was a charming fellow. I will even own, I never met a more amiable man. I beg, Viscount, if you find him, to bring him to me, he will be always well received.

The Valmont I once loved was delightful; if you find that version of yourself, send him my way.

_Merteuil sarcastically implies Valmont has lost his former charm._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-152-the-marchioness-de-merteuil-to-the-viscount-de-valmont
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters