Values in Dangerous Liaisons
'Dangerous Liaisons' and 'Cruel Intentions' EssayThe two texts, 'Dangerous Liaisons' by Choderlos de Laclos and 'Cruel Intentions' directed by Roger Kumble are just over two centuries apart yet their storylines follow similar paths. As both texts have been written in such different contexts, once examine, it is fairly easy to see that many of the values have altered significantly.Looking closely at the characters helps to determine the values that have influenced the text, but as a result of the social context and the cultural context. Dangerous Liaisons was written in the lead up to the French Revolution, a time when Laclos was a soldier in the French army. This military background influenced his novel and this becomes apparent as Merteuil and Valmont's twisted relationship becomes unstuck. One such example is after one of their disagreements and Valmont declares "I will merely confine myself to remarking that a no will be regarded a declaration of war. A single word is all that is required." Merteuil then replies "Alright...war."War is never mentioned in Cruel Intentions and one can only assume that it is because war is not such a big issue in our society. The Vicomte de Valmont has a bad reputation within his
Despite the two century time difference, there is one particular value that seems to have lasted. The only reference to Christianity in cruel intentions is when Katherine pulls out her cross and tells Cecile's mother that whenever she feels troubled or in need of guidance she turns to god. Valmont could not have had a "one night stand" in his context as it was not socially acceptable. The women in the 18th century were quite religious and generally saved themselves for their husbands, therefore Valmont's only frequent sexual partners had to be the tarts of the lower classes. We also see her go up to Katherine and give her a copy of the diary with a triumphant smile on her face. In 'Cruel Intentions' Sebastian talks about sleeping with young, inexperienced females saying, "I am sick of sleeping with these insipid Manhattan debutantes". Both of these actions are contrasts of each other and directly reflect upon the social structure of both societies. The characters of Annette and Tourvel show a large change on the importance that society places on religion but also shows how views on Christianity have remained. Her mother, though, refuses to let Cecile's relationship with Danceny continue because she believes that her arranged husband is the ideal partner. In Dangerous Liaisons both Valmont and Merteuil have their own personal servants, whom wait on them whenever needed. In Dangerous Liaisons Tourvel dies from a sickness caused by her heartbreak yet in Cruel Intentions Annette doesn't die. Katherine's housekeeper is an Asian lady, and an African-American is also in the story, playing Cecile's lover. This quote illustrates that Sebastian sleeps with strangers, women he has only just become acquainted with and whom he doesn't have to pay. We see her in the last scene driving away in Sebastian's car, a picture of triumph and strength.
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