Florence Nightingale

Available for over a year

The writers and cast behind Horrible Histories wonder what it might be like if Florence Nightingale had her own podcast. It is set during the Crimean War. Nightingale wants to talk about her hygiene theories but her co-host, her sister Parthenope is more interested in how famous Florence has become back home. There is a mock advert for Lady with the Lamp merchandise and another for a portable stove from French chef Alexis Soyer. There is also a quiz question about how the Battle of Balaclava gave its name to warm headgear. Parthenope introduces Earl of Cardigan, a general in the British forces. He mentions a couple of administrative disasters and is happy to discuss a new item of clothing – the cardigan. He is very keen to know more about Florence’s lamp. They get a listener telegram from John Snow in London who is interested in the cause of cholera – the hosts are sceptical of “germ theory”. Rattus offers some context at the top and tail of the episode, which also features two songs from the TV series – All About This Base and I Brought About The minipod that goes with this episode features a mock advert for the innovate new explosive, Nitro-glycerine.