Dangerous Liaisons · Chapter
Letter 162: Chevalier Danceny to the Viscount de Valmont explained
Chevalier Danceny, having discovered Valmont's betrayal and treachery, writes to challenge him to a duel.
What happens
Chevalier Danceny, having discovered Valmont's betrayal and treachery, writes to challenge him to a duel. He expresses his wounded pride and anger at having been deceived, and demands satisfaction at the gate of the wood of Vincennes the following morning.
Themes in this chapter
Revenge and Cruelty
Danceny's challenge is driven by a desire for revenge and to restore his honor after Valmont's betrayal, highlighting the theme of retribution.
Hypocrisy and Appearance vs. Reality
Danceny's blind confidence in Valmont is shattered, revealing the deceptive nature of their relationship and the contrast between appearance and reality.
Characters to notice
- Chevalier Danceny
Writes a letter of challenge to Valmont, expressing his anger and wounded pride upon discovering Valmont's treachery.
- Viscount de Valmont
The recipient of the challenge; Danceny accuses him of basely sporting with him and bragging of his treachery.
Key passages
“I am informed, Sir, of your behaviour towards me—I also know that after having basely sported with me, you have dared to applaud yourself and brag of it—”
I have learned of how you treated me, and that you have shamelessly boasted about your deceit.
Danceny confronts Valmont with his knowledge of the betrayal and Valmont's arrogant boasting.
“I am only curious to know, whether you will equally preserve them all over me—This I shall be informed of, if, as I hope, you will be tomorrow morning, between eight and nine, at the gate of the wood of Vincennes, village of St. Maude.”
I want to see if you can maintain your superiority over me; we will find out if you meet me tomorrow morning at the appointed place.
Danceny issues a formal challenge to a duel, setting the time and place for the confrontation.