Dangerous Liaisons

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1782

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Before You Read Beta

Summary

Background

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1, Preface-Letter 20

Part 1, Letters 21-40

Part 1, Letters 41-50

Part 2, Letters 51-70

Part 2, Letters 71-87

Part 3, Letters 88-100

Part 3, Letters 101-124

Part 4, Letters 125-150

Part 4, Letters 151-175

Character Analysis

Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

Tools Beta

Discussion Questions

Essay Topics

Analyze the theme of manipulation and power in Dangerous Liaisons. What forms of power exist in the novel? How do the characters use different forms of power to manipulate others to achieve their own desires?

Discuss the role of gender and societal expectations in the novel. How does a character’s sex impact their behavior and choices, and how does society judge them for it?

Examine the character of the Marquise de Merteuil. What motivates her actions, and how does she embody the theme of moral corruption? In what ways is she similar to Valmont, and in what ways does she differ?