Secrets in the Princesse de Clèves

In a society where there are more and more taboos and, consequently, secrets, there is naturally a desire to learn about them. Where better to do this than in literature? It is said that literature knows no taboos. At least that is the case today. But in Mme de Lafayette’s time, the situation was quite different. One could not simply write about whatever one wanted. However, authors found a way to express criticism secretly. The many secrets and intrigues of court society show that nothing at court is as it seems. Everyone hides their true self, their feelings and intentions, behind a mask that only selected individuals are allowed to glimpse. Mme de Lafayette offers the reader a critical view of the society of her era, which is defined by gallantry, superficiality and selfishness. There are neither customs nor morals, and everything and everyone is hidden behind a veil.