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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Part I: Letters 1 through 15.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. How was __Les Liaisons Dangereuses_ treated after the turn of the 20th century?
(a) Readers and critics ignored its existence until ten years ago.
(b) Readers and critics were more likely to praise and study it.
(c) Readers and critics extolled it as the single best novel of the Western hemisphere.
(d) Readers and critics reaffirmed the initial 18th-century response.

2. Whom does Valmont plan to seduce?
(a) Madame de Tourvel.
(b) Madame de Volanges.
(c) Merteuil.
(d) Josephine.

3. What was the beginning of Laclos' military career like?
(a) He set sail for India and China to support France's colonial efforts.
(b) He was garrisoned in provincial towns and saw no battle action.
(c) He fought constantly in the Seven Years' War.
(d) He became a decorated hero and military adviser to the King.

4. In letter 5, how does Merteuil react to Valmont's object of desire?
(a) She is incredulous and mocking.
(b) She encourages his plan of seduction.
(c) She places absolute faith in Valmont.
(d) She expresses doubts as to his capability.

5. How does Coward recommend the novel should be criticized?
(a) By employing only what the reader knows about Laclos' life.
(b) By placing the novel only in the context of 18th-century France.
(c) By using a variety of critical theories and methodologies.
(d) By referencing only the text itself, and no outside information.

Short Answer Questions

1. What else does David Coward, author of the Introduction, insist is a factor in libertine novels?

2. Where does Cécile live before coming home to Paris?

3. Who or what does Coward see as at fault for the events of the novel?

4. What euphemism does Merteuil use to refer to her lover?

5. Where is Madame de Tourvel staying while her husband is away?

(see the answer key)

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