Details
- By
- Genre: Drama
- Breakdown: 1M+1W
- Publisher: Link
Synopsis
A tale of seduction set in France among aristocrats before the revolution, this is a classic drama for exploring decadent sexuality, morals, and manipulation played as the ultimate game, with tragic results. The Royal Shakespeare Company’s stunning production met with acclaim in Stratford, London and on Broadway. The film Dangerous Liaisons starred Glenn Close, John Malkovich, and Michelle Pfeiffer.
Character Breakdown
Marquise Isabelle de Merteuil (F) consiered wise and chaste
Sebastian Valmont (M) rich playboy, Isabelle's former lover. He seduces Cécile and falls in love with the Présidente de Tourvel
Cecile (F) young girl fresh out of the convent, preyed upon by Merteuil and Valmont.
Présidente/Madame de Tourvel (F) The chaste and religious wife of a member of Parliament. She is seduced by, and falls in love with, the Vicomte de Valmont. She dies of grief when the Vicomte de Valmont leaves her.
Le Chevalier Raphael Danceny (M) The singing and harp teacher of Cécile Volanges. The Chevalier Danceny becomes the pet of the Marquise de Merteuil and the student of Valmont. Along the way, he falls in love with Cécile. He ends by killing Valmont in a duel over Cécile's honor.
Madame de Volanges (F) The mother of Cécile, who arranges an advantageous marriage for her daughter and lives a respectable life. She corresponds frequently with the Présidente de Tourvel.
Madame de Rosemonde (F) The aunt of the Vicomte de Valmont. Madame de Rosemonde invites a lot of people to stay with her at her country estate. She also corresponds with, and offers advice to, the Présidente de Tourvel when the Présidente is having difficulties with Valmont.
Victoire (F) The Marquise de Merteuil's chambermaid. Victoire has been known to dress as a footman on occasion to participate in various romantic dramas as a messenger or a doorman.
Emilie (F) A courtesan favored by Valmont. Emilie makes a brief appearance in letter forty-seven, where it is reported that her naked body has served as the writing desk.
Julie (F) The Présidente de Tourvel's maidservant.
Azolan (M) The valet of the Vicomte de Valmont. Azolan is often required to offer bribes and sleep with other servants to get information for his master.