The Rhetoric of Seduction in <i>Les Égarements du cœur et de l’esprit</i> by Crébillon fils

Abstract

The present research tries to investigate the mode of rhetorical devices within a libertine novel, Les Égarements du cœur et de l'esprit of Crébillon fils. In particular, we set ourselves the goal is to analyze the notion of implicit and unsaid to show how the seduction steps through a rhetoric of silence. The method invokes different disciplines, such as sociology of culture and knowledge and studies on the conversation. As a result, the narrative techniques presented by Crébillon for his dialogues cannot leave out of consideration the civilizing process shown by Norbert Elias in his studies.

Keywords

• Crébillon fils
• Libertinismo
• Processo di civilizzazione
• Pulsioni
• Conversazione