The purpose of this study is to investigate how the philanthropist Ebba Ramsay portrayed

children with epilepsy in her writings during her time active at Wilhelmsro, an institution

for children with epilepsy outside Jönköping, Sweden, from 1877 to 1915.

The study is based on an analysis of 23 writings by Ramsay, where the main focus includes

Ramsay's representations of the children and what insights these can provide about

society's view of epilepsy and its impact on the affected children and society at this time.

Bill Hughes' categorization of the basic aversive feelings on disability is used to categorize

Ramsay's view of the epileptic children.

The results show that Ramsay portrayed the children with a mixture of fear, pity, and

disgust, often portraying epilepsy as a tragic and heavy burden for both individuals and

their families. She also describes a society that is often unsympathetic and exclusionary

towards these children. These representations are used to evoke compassion and support

for better care and education for children with epilepsy.

The final discussion highlights the relevance of Ramsay's work to the teaching of history

at secondary school level, where her texts can be used to discuss how historical

perspectives on illness and disability can relate to contemporary views and policies.

Suggestions for future research include comparisons of Ramsay's work with other similar

institutions internationally, as well as deeper studies of the gender aspects that may have

influenced her work.