Florence Nightingale: Pioneering Nurse and Author

Florence Nightingale was educated by governesses and then by her father, with her older sister, Panthenope. She was familiar with the Greek and Latin classical languages, and modern languages of French, German, and Italian. She also studied history, grammar, and philosophy. At twenty, she overcame parental objections to receive tutoring in mathematics.

Over parental objections, Florence Nightingale chose a different path than the social life and marriage expected of her by her parents -- she chose to work in nursing, which was then not a respectable profession for women.

Florence Nightingale went to Prussia for a German training program for  girls who would serve as nurses. She worked briefly for a Sisters of Mercy hospital near Paris. Her views began to be respected.

Though her own works were not published, there is quite an extensive bibliography of books about Florence Nightingale - some of which that incorporate her extensive notes and writings.

As both a nurse and an author myself I am fascinated with this notable pioneer in both fields.

A traveling exhibit honoring Florence Nightingale includes six paintings, collages, letters and manuscripts. More information can be found at
http://Nurse.com/NightingaleLetters .