Dangerous Liaisons

In the world of libertinism and power plays of Dangerous Liaisons, the need for morality becomes readily apparent. The novel suggests that it is only integrity and adherence to a moral code that can prevent deceit and ruin at the hands of others. While some characters demonstrate only a false outward conformity to morality, other characters remain true to their morals to the very end.

There is an important distinction throughout the novel between the characters who pretend to conform to a moral code when it suits them, and those who genuinely believe in upholding moral values. The novel suggests that the corrupting influence of society—in this case, libertinism—can dangerously undermine religious and moral values by encouraging hypocrisy. Valmont and Merteuil reject moral codes, prioritizing their own desires and pleasure over any moral considerations. Nevertheless, the importance of maintaining the appearance of devotion to these values is important, especially for Merteuil, who goes to great lengths to maintain her reputation as a virtuous woman. Merteuil even asserts in some of her letters to Valmont that women run greater risks than men in games of seduction precisely because their moral reputations are both so fragile and so valuable: Yet, in Merteuil’s eyes, such morality is merely a hindrance to be overcome in her pursuit of power, not a genuinely meaningful alternative to the empty libertinism she pursues.

Likewise, Valmont attempts to seduce Tourvel by playing the role of the reformed rake. He claims that he has repented of his affairs and deplores his former dissolute lifestyle. When she removes herself from him, he begins ostentatiously attending Mass and enlists the help of Father Anselme in communicating with her, convincing the priest that he has changed his ways. Therefore, for both Valmont and Merteuil, morality is not a code to live by but a performance to enact when and as necessary—they understand how to masterfully present themselves as moral while continuing to pursue their amoral pursuits in secret.

By contrast, there are characters who do genuinely try to uphold moral codes based on their own convictions. Cécile and Tourvel are protected by moral codes at the start of the novel. Cécile is at first hesitant to be too forward with Danceny and, later, feels wary of Valmont, only to have her moral scruples overcome through Merteuil’s careful manipulation in posing as her selfless friend. Similarly, Tourvel clings to her moral virtues and religious faith in an attempt to keep Valmont at bay, only to fall, little by little, into his trap of believing he has changed and is sincere in his feelings for her. In betraying their moral codes, both Cécile and Tourvel are left exposed as prey for others. 

However, characters like Madame de Volanges and Madame de Rosemonde are steadfastly guided by their religious and moral beliefs throughout, allowing them to provide a moral compass for other characters who have lost their way. Rosemonde's unshakeable integrity and sense of moral probity make her a loyal friend: Even when Tourvel confesses to her affair, Rosemonde responds with compassion and understanding instead of judgement, offering Tourvel her unwavering loyalty throughout her ordeals in an attempt to help her. Volanges initially sees through Valmont’s deceitful tricks; she rejects his supposed “reformation” and warns Tourvel against the deception. Volanges tries to be a moral and loving mother throughout the narrative even though her attempts to protect Cécile ultimately fail. She remains loving and principled at the novel’s end, still seeking a resolution for Cécile that could possibly get her out of the convent, which suggests she may yet prove to be a lifeline for her daughter. Ultimately, both women demonstrate that while resisting the corruption of high-society libertinism is not always easy, remaining true to one’s own genuine moral code is the surest safeguard of not only one’s reputation, but one’s well-being.