Pierre Choderlos de Laclos’ Dangerous Liaisons is often hailed for its provocative exploration of manipulation and morality within high society. Praised for its intricate epistolary format and character depth, some readers find the pacing slow and the immoral actions of characters unsettling. Overall, it remains a compelling, thought-provoking classic.

Readers who appreciate intricate plots, psychological manipulation, and themes of power and deceit, similar to those in Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen and Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy, will enjoy Pierre Choderlos de Laclos's Dangerous Liaisons. It's perfect for fans of classic literature and social intrigue.

Dangerous Liaisons by Pierre Choderlos de Laclos is an epistolary novel set in pre-revolutionary France, centered on the manipulative Marquise de Merteuil and Vicomte de Valmont, who use their charm to seduce and ruin others. Their schemes involve seducing the virtuous Présidente de Tourvel and the young Cécile de Volanges, resulting in a complex web of deceit and moral corruption. The book contains sensitive topics, including sexual assaults, death by suicide, and miscarriage.

Mysterious / Dark / Unnerving / Bittersweet / Romantic

Pierre Choderlos de Laclos

Adult

Novel

Fiction

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Study Guide

Before You Read

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Overview

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Dangerous Liaisons Summary and Study Guide

Background

Dangerous Liaisons Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1, Preface-Letter 20

Dangerous Liaisons Part 1, Preface-Letter 20 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Letters 21-40

Dangerous Liaisons Part 1, Letters 21-40 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Letters 41-50

Dangerous Liaisons Part 1, Letters 41-50 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Letters 51-70

Dangerous Liaisons Part 2, Letters 51-70 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Letters 71-87

Dangerous Liaisons Part 2, Letters 71-87 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Letters 88-100

Dangerous Liaisons Part 3, Letters 88-100 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Letters 101-124

Dangerous Liaisons Part 3, Letters 101-124 Summary & Analysis

Part 4, Letters 125-150

Dangerous Liaisons Part 4, Letters 125-150 Summary & Analysis

Part 4, Letters 151-175

Dangerous Liaisons Part 4, Letters 151-175 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Dangerous Liaisons Character Analysis

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Themes

Dangerous Liaisons Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Dangerous Liaisons Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Dangerous Liaisons Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Dangerous Liaisons Essay Topics

Dangerous Liaisons

Before You Read

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Book Details