pierre choderlos de laclo

＂Dangerous Liaisons＂ (original French title: ＂Les Liaisons Dangereuses＂) is a novel by Pierre Choderlos de Laclos, published in 1782. It’s known for its exploration of seduction, revenge, and human malice, set within the aristocratic circles of France just before the French Revolution.

The story revolves around the Marquise de Merteuil and the Vicomte de Valmont, two ex-lovers who use seduction as a weapon to manipulate and control others for their own amusement and gain. They engage in a cruel game of deceit, using innocent and unsuspecting individuals as their pawns.

The novel is structured as a series of letters exchanged between the characters, providing multiple perspectives on the unfolding drama and revealing the complex dynamics of power and manipulation.

＂Dangerous Liaisons＂ is considered a masterwork of French literature and remains a profound commentary on the decadence of the French aristocracy, which ultimately led to societal upheaval and revolution.