Really, the only character to come out of this unpunished is Danceny. And what does he do? He imposes himself on a convent innocent (demands that Cecile reply to his letters, then barely thanks her for taking this reputation-threatening step before lamenting for a kiss). He takes up with the marquise. He feels entitled to challenge Valmont for "seducing" Cecile even though he's been unfaithful to her (nor does Danceny's code of honor extend to include the man to whom Cecile is betrothed). Then -- ooops -- he kills Valmont. Then he wants Madame Rosamonde to spare him legal accountability, because he didn't really mean to do it. Then he has a fit of pique and shares letters that, even if they served Valmont's dying wishes, jeopardizes other innocents in the marquise's path.
Then he goes off with the Knights of Malta. Scarred? Maybe a little. But did Danceny deserve more?
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
3 comments:
I think he deserved for you to call him a jackass, you brilliant minx!
Excellent question. Based on everything you said, I think you're right: he was a jackass who deserved worse.
I think he may have gotten off light because he was a more minor character.
Also his youth seemed to play a part. A few different times his flaws and missteps were excused by his age. Like he wasn't expected to have as much control over his emotions and behavior because he was young.
Post a Comment