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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. According to the author of the Editor's Preface, what is the value of a work of literature?
(a) The price it can be sold at; the wealth it can bring its author.
(b) Its moral obligation to society.
(c) The opportunity it offers its readers to escape their dull, daily lives.
(d) Its usefulness to society and/or the pleasure it gives its readers.

2. What was Laclos' relationship with his own wife and children?
(a) He was harsh and abusive.
(b) He was warm and loving.
(c) He was timid and shy.
(d) He was cold and distant.

3. Which place in the social hierarchy did Laclos' family occupy?
(a) The clergy.
(b) The highest form of the gentry.
(c) The peasant class.
(d) The lowest form of nobility.

4. To whom does the Marquise de Merteuil confide her plots?
(a) Valmont.
(b) Madame de Tourvel.
(c) Danceny.
(d) Madame de Volanges.

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

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Madame de Volanges say about Valmont to Madame de Tourvel in letter 9?

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

3. Why does Valmont think it possible to seduce this woman?

4. What does the author of the Editor's Preface claim he has done?

5. What literary tradition does Coward see as applicable?

(see the answer key)

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