# Letter 21: From Viscount Valmont to the Marchioness de Merteuil explained — Dangerous Liaisons

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

## What happens

Valmont writes to Merteuil about his strategic act of charity, which he uses to manipulate Madame de Tourvel and advance his seduction. He describes paying the debts of a poor family, staging the scene to appear virtuous, and notes the emotional impact on himself and the observers, including the spy set to watch him. He hints at further progress in his scheme.

## Themes in this chapter

### Hypocrisy and Appearance vs. Reality

Valmont stages a charitable act to appear virtuous, while his true motive is manipulation and seduction.

### Seduction and Manipulation

Valmont's entire scheme is a calculated manipulation of Tourvel's perception of his character.

### Class and Social Standing

Valmont uses his wealth and social power to perform charity, reinforcing his status while exploiting the poor.

## Character check-ins

### Viscount de Valmont

Narrates his calculated act of charity and his satisfaction with the manipulation.

### Marchioness de Merteuil

The recipient of Valmont's letter, his confidante and co-conspirator.

### Madame de Tourvel

The target of Valmont's scheme; he notes her curiosity and attempts to dissuade him from shooting.

## Key lines

> I have at length, my dear friend, made an advance, and one of such importance, that though it has not led to the full completion of my wishes, convinces me I am in the right road, and dispels my dread of having gone astray.

I've finally made a significant move that, while not fully successful, reassures me I'm on the right track.

_Valmont announces progress in his seduction plan._

> I was amazed at the pleasure that is felt in doing a benevolent act; and I’m inclined to think, those we call virtuous people, have not so much merit as is ascribed to them.

I was surprised by how good it felt to do good; perhaps virtuous people don't deserve as much credit as they get.

_Valmont reflects on the selfish pleasure he derives from his staged charity._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters/letter-21-from-viscount-valmont-to-the-marchioness-de-merteuil
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- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/dangerous_liaisons_se/chapters