Throughout the novel, Merteuil reiterates her opinions that men are allowed to be deceitful, but that woman are supposed to be prim, proper, and above all, moral. She has rejected this view of women for some time, and chooses instead to pursue her own path. Based on her stories of her youth and her life in the story, why do you think Merteuil chooses this lifestyle? Does she have a choice? Why or why not? Be sure to include areas of the novel in your argument.

Valmont, throughout the novel, is attempting to win the heart of Tourvel, and it is clear that by the end of the novel, he has fallen in love with her. Why then, do you believe he gives her up so quickly in an effort to please Merteuil? Do you think his reasoning is sound? Why or why not...