Dangerous Liaisons · Chapter
Letter 28: Chevalier Danceny to Cecilia Volanges explained
Danceny writes a passionate and despairing letter to Cecilia, reproaching her for refusing to answer his letters and for offering only friendship instead of love.
What happens
Danceny writes a passionate and despairing letter to Cecilia, reproaching her for refusing to answer his letters and for offering only friendship instead of love. He declares his intention to see her less frequently and to try to conquer his feelings, lamenting that her silence proves her indifference.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This is the dramatic climax because Valmont reaches the peak of his sadistic triumph—the "brilliant éclat" of…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Love, Virtue, and Corruption
Danceny's idealized love contrasts with Cecilia's cautious friendship, highlighting the tension between genuine affection and social propriety.
- Innocence and Experience
Cecilia's reluctance to engage in a romantic correspondence reflects her innocence, while Danceny's passionate pleas represent the experience of unrequited love.
Characters to notice
- Chevalier Danceny
Writes a letter expressing his anguish and frustration at Cecilia's refusal to reciprocate his love.
- Cecilia Volanges
The recipient of Danceny's letter; she is accused of offering only friendship and remaining silent.
Key passages
“You still, Miss, refuse to answer my letters. Will nothing move you? and must every day banish the hopes it brings!”
You continue to ignore my letters. Is there nothing that can change your mind? Must each day destroy the hope it brings?
Danceny expresses his frustration at Cecilia's persistent silence.
“I will even endeavour to see you less frequently; and I am already busied in finding out a plausible pretence.”
I will try to see you less often, and I am already looking for a believable excuse.
Danceny resolves to distance himself from Cecilia to cope with his unrequited feelings.
