Pierre Choderlos de Laclos 
Dangerous Liaisons 

Pierre Choderlos de Laclos’ ‘Dangerous Liaisons’ is a classic French epistolary novel published in 1782, during the late 18th century, a period known for its focus on reason and social norms. The book is composed of letters exchanged between various characters, detailing their manipulative and seductive games of love and power. Laclos’ use of intricate language and clever plot twists make ‘Dangerous Liaisons’ a masterpiece of French literature, exploring themes of class, gender, and morality in a captivating and scandalous manner. The novel’s structure and narrative style set it apart from other works of its time, offering readers a unique and engaging reading experience. Pierre Choderlos de Laclos, a French military officer and writer, drew inspiration from his own experiences and observations of the French aristocracy to craft ‘Dangerous Liaisons.’ As a participant in the social circles he depicts in the novel, Laclos provides a firsthand account of the complexities of love and intrigue within the upper echelons of society. His keen insight into human nature and relationships shines through in his writing, adding depth and authenticity to the characters and their motivations. I highly recommend ‘Dangerous Liaisons’ to readers interested in 18th-century French literature, as well as those intrigued by complex characters and intricate plots. Laclos’ masterful storytelling and sharp wit make this novel a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences today.

About the author

Pierre Choderlos de Laclos (1741–1803) was a French officer and novelist, most renowned for his epistolary novel, ‘Dangerous Liaisons’ (1782), a masterful exploration of the decadence of the French aristocracy before the Revolution. Born in Amiens, Laclos pursued a military career before venturing into writing. While his literary output was limited, ‘Dangerous Liaisons’ had an immediate and scandalous success, becoming a seminal work in French literature. The novel’s portrayal of manipulative liaisons and moral cynicism was groundbreaking, and it remains a standard against which tales of psychological intrigue and societal critique are measured. While known principally for this singular work, Laclos’s influence extends to his adept use of the epistolary form, commanding narrative structure, and deft character development. His exploration of themes such as libertinism, power dynamics, and the role of women in society provided a prescient analysis of changing social mores. Despite the infamy and the moral outrage it provoked, ‘Dangerous Liaisons’ continues to captivate scholars and readers alike, inviting ongoing interpretations and adaptations across various media. Laclos’s sharp insight into human nature and his critique of aristocratic frivolity offer a grim foreshadowing of the impending revolution. His legacy, encompassed largely by this single novel, persists as a touchstone for those examining the complexities of power, seduction, and morality.