Dangerous Liaisons · Chapter
Letter 26: The Presidente de Tourvel to Viscount Valmont explained
Madame de Tourvel writes to Valmont to explain her tears and words from the previous night, asserting that her distress stemmed from his improper behavior and her fear of being mistaken for the women he despises.
What happens
Madame de Tourvel writes to Valmont to explain her tears and words from the previous night, asserting that her distress stemmed from his improper behavior and her fear of being mistaken for the women he despises. She denies any affection for him, demands silence and the return of her letter, and warns that she will avoid him if he continues his advances.
Themes in this chapter
Hypocrisy and Appearance vs. Reality
Tourvel insists on her virtue and denies any affection, yet her emotional reaction and detailed explanation suggest inner conflict.
Gender and Power Dynamics
Tourvel asserts her moral authority but is forced to defend herself against Valmont's manipulative pursuit, highlighting the unequal power between men and women.
Characters to notice
- Madame de Tourvel
Writes to Valmont to defend her honor and demand an end to his advances.
- Viscount de Valmont
Recipient of the letter; accused of insulting Tourvel with his declarations.
Key passages
“I wept I own; and the words you cite may have escaped me; tears, words, and everything you have carefully noted; it is then necessary to explain all”
I admit I cried, and I may have said what you claim; you have observed everything, so I must now explain myself fully.
Tourvel acknowledges her emotional display and feels compelled to justify it.
“if instead of disapproving sentiments that ought to offend me, I had the slightest apprehension of participating them. No, Sir, I have no such apprehensions; if I had, I should fly a hundred leagues from you”
If I feared I might share your feelings, I would flee far away from you, but I do not.
Tourvel vehemently denies any reciprocal affection for Valmont.
“I shall content myself with informing you, Sir, your sentiments offend me; that your declaration of them is an insult”
I will simply tell you that your feelings offend me, and expressing them is an insult.
Tourvel clearly states that Valmont's advances are unwelcome and insulting.