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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Part I: Letters 1 through 15.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. According to the author of the Editor's Preface, what is the value of a work of literature?
(a) The price it can be sold at; the wealth it can bring its author.
(b) Its usefulness to society and/or the pleasure it gives its readers.
(c) The opportunity it offers its readers to escape their dull, daily lives.
(d) Its moral obligation to society.

2. What does Laclos favor over the well-trained mind?
(a) A feeling heart.
(b) A high social station.
(c) A sense of humor.
(d) A stout constitution.

3. What is an "epistolary novel?"
(a) A novel set in Medieval times.
(b) A novel told from the perspective of a single character.
(c) A novel told through letters.
(d) A novel centering around a mythical being.

4. Whom does Cécile's mother intend for her to marry?
(a) The Comte de Gercourt.
(b) The Vicomte de Valmont.
(c) The Chevalier Danceny.
(d) Monsieur de Prévan.

5. How did Laclos' contemporary critics feel his novel would impact society?
(a) The novel would corrupt more people than it saved.
(b) The novel would offer scrupulous moral lessons.
(c) The novel would showcase French literary talent.
(d) The novel would challenge the political regime.

Short Answer Questions

1. What euphemism does Merteuil use to refer to her lover?

2. How does Cécile initially feel about Danceny?

3. What does the author of the Editor's Preface claim he has done?

4. What was the beginning of Laclos' military career like?

5. To whom does the Marquise de Merteuil confide her plots?

(see the answer key)

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