The story I am presenting today, is “Ten Days a Madwoman”, a story written by Deborah Noyes, with themes and ideas regarding society’s treatment of the mentally ill, the significance of pursuing and following your dreams, and the disadvantages woman often face in society.

“Ten Days a Madwoman”, starts in 1887, as the story follows Elizabeth Jane Cochran, also known as Nellie Bly, an aspiring female reporter, who has taken to New York City in search of a job opportunity as a reporter. However, Nellie will be quick to find out how all the major journalist companies refuse to hire women, leaving her dejected. Downcast, her only opportunity to become a reporter is to land a scoop in an insane asylum,. This story follows Nellie Bly’s life, the rest of the adventures she faces, and the struggle she endures. Join Nellie on her tale of pursuing one’s dreams, fighting against misogyny, and the injustices faced by the mentally ill.

One of the early central ideas I identified, was the importance of pursuing your dreams, and passion. It is shown through Nellie Bly, as her journey to become a female reporter. The following is a page of evidence I have found and my analysis of it.

The next document is to regarding the next central idea I have found, which is, societies treatment for the mentally ill. This was primarily focused on in “Ten Days a Madwoman”, with Nellie’s time spent in the insane asylum, the experiences she has faced, and the mentally ill who suffered. The following is my evidence and thoughts on this central idea.

The final document is my final central idea, which is how women often are faced with discrimination. This is explored throughout the story, such as Nellie facing misogyny, as to how she is originally denied as a reporter based on gender. The following is a page on my thoughts and evidence to this central idea.

In conclusion,  “Ten Days a Madwoman” is an engrossing story about a female reporter, pursuing her dreams, with themes of sexism, treatment of the mentally ill, and pursuit of your dreams.  I would highly recommend to everyone, not just as a documentary for the life and success of Nellie Bly, but as a way to learn more about American history, and how anyone can make a difference in the world. 9/10, would recommend.