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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Letters 51 - 80.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Who or what does Coward see as at fault for the events of the novel?
(a) The pressures of the social caste system.
(b) The fate handed down by God.
(c) The natural, undeniable human sexual curiosity.
(d) The actions of individuals.

2. Why does Valmont think it possible to seduce this woman?
(a) Her husband is away.
(b) She expressed interest in him.
(c) He seduced her in the past.
(d) He already knows she has a weak character.

3. Who notified Madame de Volanges of Cécile and Danceny's romance?
(a) Cécile, accidentally.
(b) Merteuil.
(c) Madame de Tourvel.
(d) Valmont.

4. How did Laclos' contemporary critics feel his novel would impact society?
(a) The novel would offer scrupulous moral lessons.
(b) The novel would showcase French literary talent.
(c) The novel would corrupt more people than it saved.
(d) The novel would challenge the political regime.

5. Where does Cécile live before coming home to Paris?
(a) With her elderly aunt.
(b) On the streets.
(c) At a convent.
(d) With a family friend.

Short Answer Questions

1. Which place in the social hierarchy did Laclos' family occupy?

2. In letter 5, how does Merteuil react to Valmont's object of desire?

3. What does Merteuil do to get herself in the mood for sex with her lover?

4. What is the main rule of Valmont's and Merteuil's seductions?

5. Who are the two people Cécile admits she likes best?

(see the answer key)

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