College
When Blackwell arrived at Geneva the townspeople, especially the women shunned her(Lewis)They thought she was insane and weird for studying medicine. This made her feel singled out and uncomfortable, but it didn't stop her from pursuing her dream. Before she had arrived the medical lectures were rambunctious and rowdy, but when she arrived they were silent(Luft). However the men behaved as gentlemen and treated her nicely. (Binns25)("That Girl..) "The ladies stopped to stare at me, as at a curious animal" |
"her entrance into.. that confusion acted like magic upon every student. Each hurried sought to his seat, and the most absolute silence prevailed. For the first time a lecture was given without the slightest interruption, and every word could be heard... A more orderly class of medical students was never seen than this" |
Anatomy Class
When Dr. Webster was starting the reproductive system in class, he was afraid that his rude humor would offend her(Luft). He asked her not to attend those lectures and dissections. Blackwell undoubtedly fought him and wrote a letter stating that is was just the human body and if he was embarrassed by her, she would sit and hide in the back. After reading the letter to the class, Webster allowed the students to vote. The decided to let her join in and Webster admitted he was wrong to exclude her and promised it wouldn't happen again. (Binns27)
"I venture to say in ten years' time one-third the classes in our college will consist of women. After the precedent you will have established, peoples eyes will be opened" |
" some of the students blushed , some were hysterical not one could keep in a smile...My delicacy was certainly shocked.. but I sate in grave indifference, though the effort made my heart palpitate most painfully" |