LIFE IN THE SICK-ROOM

Writer and journalist Martineau (1802-76), first writing under the pseudonym of "An Invalid," penned this autobiographical account of the Victorian culture of "invalidism." She describes her mental and physical travails in the "sick-room," and reflects on medical, spiritual, psychological, and other aspects of the experience. Editor Frawley (English, George Washington U.) offers an introduction that explores the literary and social implications Martineau's mixed-genre narrative. Also included are a number of Martineau's other writings on medicine, an exchange of letters with Florence Nightingale, excerpts of other pieces of sickroom literature, and reviews.