Author
Ellen N. (Ellen Newbold) La Motte
1873-1961
Ellen N. (Ellen Newbold) La Motte (1873-1961) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by Ellen N. (Ellen Newbold) La Motte
The Opium Monopoly
"The Opium Monopoly" by Ellen N. La Motte is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The work explores the complex issues surrounding the opium trade, focusing particularly on the role of Great Britain in the opium monopoly and its implications for various countries, including India and China. La Motte's examination is rooted in a mixture of personal experiences and extensive research, aiming to shed light on the moral and economic ramifications of the opium traffic. At the start of the narrative, the author recounts her initial ignorance about the opium trade, transformed by a conversation with a young Hindu on a ship to Japan who passionately criticizes British opium policies in India. This encounter sparks her investigation into the subject, which leads her to discover the British government's integral role in fostering the opium trade within its colonies. She describes visiting opium shops and dens in various parts of the Far East, unveiling a systematic government-supported industry that profits from the addiction and degradation of colonized peoples. The opening portion sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the global ramifications of the opium monopoly and the ethical dilemmas posed by colonialism and drug addiction.
The Backwash of War The Human Wreckage of the Battlefield as Witnessed by an American Hospital Nurse
"The Backwash of War" by Ellen N. La Motte is a collection of poignant sketches and observations written in the early 20th century. The book gives a firsthand account of the grim realities faced by military hospital nurses during World War I, focusing on the human toll of warfare and the psychological struggles of those caught in its wake. Through the experiences of a hospital nurse in a field hospital behind the front lines in Belgium, the work explores themes of heroism, despair, and the often unnoticed suffering that accompanies battle. At the start of the book, La Motte introduces the bleak atmosphere of a military field hospital, outlining the monotony mixed with moments of chaos that characterize the life there. The opening sketch portrays the harrowing experience of a wounded soldier who attempted suicide after being captured as a deserter. The narrative delves into the complexities of military life, reflecting on the attitudes of both the medical staff and the soldiers as they confront the futility and madness of war. The nurse's reflections prompt deep questions about ideals, courage, and the definition of heroism amid the carnage, capturing the heart-wrenching reality of those left to manage the aftermath—the "backwash"—of warfare, where the true human cost is laid bare.
The Tuberculosis Nurse: Her Function and Her Qualifications A Handbook for Practical Workers in the Tuberculosis Campaign
"The Tuberculosis Nurse: Her Function and Her Qualifications" by Ellen N. La Motte is a handbook for practical workers in the tuberculosis campaign written in the early 20th century. This publication addresses the pivotal role of nurses in combating tuberculosis, detailing their responsibilities, required qualifications, and the challenges they face in the field. The subject is particularly relevant in the context of medical and public health advancements during a time when tuberculosis was a significant health crisis. The opening of the book provides a comprehensive introduction to the pressing issue of tuberculosis, highlighting its infectious nature and the complexity of its management within communities, particularly among the economically disadvantaged. La Motte emphasizes the need for targeted intervention, such as nursing visits to infected patients, education, and the promotion of sanitary living conditions to curb the disease's spread. She sets the stage for discussing the importance of well-trained public health nurses who are prepared to navigate the intricacies of patient care, education, and community outreach in their efforts to control and prevent tuberculosis.
Peking Dust
"Peking Dust" by Ellen N. La Motte is a collection of travel essays written in the early 20th century. The book recounts the author's experiences and observations during her travels in China, particularly focusing on the political and social climate of the time. La Motte's writing presents a candid and insightful perspective on the complexities of Chinese society as it navigates the challenges posed by foreign powers. At the start of the collection, La Motte introduces her journey with a humorous note about the misconceptions many in the West have regarding China. She highlights the contrasts in the literature written about China, categorizing them into superficial travelogues and dense academic works. The narrative then shifts to her arrival in Peking, detailing her initial impressions of the majestic but chaotic city. The author describes her engagement with local conversations about the influence of foreign powers in China, shedding light on the concept of "spheres of influence" and setting the stage for her exploration of the intricate dynamics of international relations in a rapidly changing China. This opening portion establishes a tone that is both observational and critical, inviting readers to reflect on the realities of colonialism and the human experiences within them.
Civilization: Tales of the Orient
"Civilization: Tales of the Orient" by Ellen N. La Motte is a collection of short stories written in the early 20th century. The narratives explore the lives of several characters against the backdrop of colonial Shanghai and its complexities, including themes of identity, cultural conflict, and personal longing. Each story delves into the interactions and struggles faced by both foreigners and locals, showcasing the stark realities of life in this bustling port city. The opening of the collection introduces a young Englishman named Rogers who arrives in Shanghai, feeling out of place and longing for a sense of normalcy. Distressed by the crude pleasures and rough company found on the China Coast, he chooses to lead a solitary and cautious life instead. Ultimately, in his quest for companionship, he engages in a practical arrangement with a Chinese girl, which raises questions about societal norms and personal ethics. This introductory section sets the stage for deeper explorations of cultural and relational dynamics that are likely to unfold in subsequent tales within this provocative collection.