louisa may alcott civil war hospital sketches

After the war, Alcott published several other works and gained a following. Her experience in the hospital as a patient and a nurse, inspired the novel Hospital Sketches. Unfortunately, in the middle of her assignment she contracted typhoid fever. When the Civil War started in 1861, Alcott served as a nurse in a Union hospital. Her first book, a compilation of short stories, was published in 1854. Her first poem, “Sunlight,” was published in a magazine under a pseudonym. She turned to writing for both emotional and financial support. She took many jobs to help alleviate financial struggles, working as teacher and washing laundry. Many times, Alcott’s family suffered from financial woes, forcing her to attend school irregularly. Much like her novel Little Women, Alcott was one of four daughters and she remained close with her sisters throughout her life. While most of her schooling came from her parents she also studied under famed philosopher Henry David Thoreau and popular authors Ralph Waldo Emerson and Nathanial Hawthorne. Therefore, at an early age, Alcott took to reading and writing. Her father, Bronson Alcott, was a popular educator who believed that children should enjoy learning.

Their religious and political beliefs deeply inspired Alcott as child. Alcott’s parents were a part of the 19 th century transcendentalist movement, a popular religious movement. As a result, her writing style greatly impacted American literature.Īlcott was born on Novemin Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Her work introduced readers to educated strong female heroines. Famed author Louisa May Alcott created colorful relatable characters in 19 th century novels.

Louisa may alcott civil war hospital sketches