Dangerous Liaisons · Chapter
Letter 164: Madame de Rosemonde to M. Bertrand explained
Madame de Rosemonde responds to the news of her nephew Valmont's death in a duel with Danceny.
What happens
Madame de Rosemonde responds to the news of her nephew Valmont's death in a duel with Danceny. She instructs M. Bertrand to initiate legal proceedings against Danceny, viewing the challenge as proof of aggression. She seeks to avenge Valmont's death on grounds of religion and humanity, and asks Bertrand to consult with the President before acting.
Themes in this chapter
Revenge and Cruelty
Madame de Rosemonde's call for legal vengeance against Danceny reflects the theme of retribution, even as she invokes religion and humanity.
Hypocrisy and Appearance vs. Reality
She claims to forgive but immediately orders prosecution, highlighting the tension between Christian forgiveness and societal expectations of honor.
Characters to notice
- Madame de Rosemonde
Grieving aunt of Valmont, she writes to M. Bertrand to order a prosecution against Danceny.
- M. Bertrand
Valmont's steward, recipient of the letter; praised for his conduct and entrusted with legal action.
- Chevalier Danceny
Identified as the aggressor and murderer in the duel; Madame de Rosemonde seeks prosecution against him.
- Viscount de Valmont
Deceased nephew; his death is the subject of the letter, and his memory is to be avenged.
Key passages
“I this instant received your letter, my dear Bertrand, informing me of the shocking event, to which my nephew is become the unhappy victim”
I have just received your letter telling me of the terrible event that has made my nephew a victim.
Madame de Rosemonde acknowledges the news of Valmont's death.
“M. Danceny’s challenge, which you sent me, is a convincing proof he was the aggressor; my intention therefore is, you should commence a prosecution in my name”
The challenge from Danceny proves he started the fight, so I want you to start a legal case in my name.
She uses the challenge as evidence to justify legal action against Danceny.
“One cannot excite too much the severity of the laws against those remains of barbarism which still infect our morals”
We cannot be too harsh in applying the law to these barbaric practices that still corrupt our society.
She condemns dueling as a barbaric remnant in society.