Context:

Referenced as a novel written during this period that captures the gossiping culture at court - people gossiping about each other, overhearing conversations, and reading letters not meant for them.

Context:

Referenced as contributing to the cultural image of scheming aristocrats who viewed torture and sexual sadism as pleasure, part of the propaganda swirl during the revolution

Context:

Referenced as 'Laclau's great novel' when discussing the libertine character of the French aristocracy and court, describing themes of aristocrats being cruel and sexually predatory.