Dangerous Liaisons · Chapter
Letter 74: Marchioness de Merteuil to Viscount de Valmont explained
Merteuil writes to Valmont, mocking his alarm over Prevan and revealing her own sudden interest in seducing him.
What happens
Merteuil writes to Valmont, mocking his alarm over Prevan and revealing her own sudden interest in seducing him. She describes her plan to encounter Prevan at the Marechale's supper, declares her intention to pursue him without delay, and demands that Valmont provide her with the story of Prevan's 'triple adventure.' She also reminds Valmont of her past services to him, including his current situation with Tourvel and his revenge on Madame de Volanges, and insists he publicize the Viscountess affair to further her own ends.
Themes in this chapter
Seduction and Manipulation
Merteuil openly plots to seduce Prevan, using calculated social maneuvers and demanding Valmont's cooperation, showcasing her mastery of manipulation.
Gender and Power Dynamics
Merteuil exerts power by reversing traditional gender roles—she pursues Prevan actively and reminds Valmont of her control over his affairs.
Hypocrisy and Appearance vs. Reality
Merteuil presents herself as a 'simple modest creature' while plotting seduction, and she values public reputation as a tool for social destruction.
Characters to notice
- Marchioness de Merteuil
Writes to Valmont, revealing her capricious interest in seducing Prevan and her manipulative control over Valmont's affairs.
- Viscount de Valmont
Recipient of the letter; Merteuil chides him for his jealousy and reminds him of her past assistance with Tourvel and Madame de Volanges.
- Prevan
Object of Merteuil's sudden romantic interest; she describes him as handsome and plans to seduce him, demanding Valmont share his story.
- Madame de Tourvel
Referenced as the 'Presidente' whom Merteuil helped Valmont regain access to.
- Madame de Volanges
Mentioned as a target of Valmont's revenge, facilitated by Merteuil.
- Chevalier de Belleroche
Merteuil mentions he thinks the Viscountess handsomer than her, motivating her desire to break off with the Viscountess.
Key passages
“You are very soon alarmed, my dear friend: this Prevan must be formidable indeed, but what a simple modest creature am I, who have often met this haughty conqueror, and have scarce ever looked at him; nothing less than your letter would have made me pay the least attention to him.”
Merteuil mocks Valmont's concern, claiming she had barely noticed Prevan until Valmont's letter drew her attention.
Merteuil uses irony to dismiss Valmont's jealousy while revealing her newfound interest.
“I gave a rendezvous to the Marquis de ⸻, to sup on Friday at the Lady Marechale’s, so loud that he might hear, which, I believe, is the only house I can meet him in; and have not the least doubt but he heard me.”
She deliberately announces her plans loudly at the Opera so Prevan will overhear and attend the same supper.
Illustrates Merteuil's strategic use of public spaces for private manipulation.
“Is it not to them you are indebted for being now with your Presidente, when your own folly drove you from her? Have I not put it in your power to be revenged of Madame de Volanges, for her acrimonious zeal against you?”
Merteuil reminds Valmont that she is responsible for his current access to Tourvel and his revenge on Madame de Volanges.
Highlights Merteuil's role as a puppet master in Valmont's schemes.
