Well I would say Flash is different to other web design software in that it isn't web design software per se. And as such you can learn how to use it without knowing any web design at all.
I learnt Flash using a couple of books in a few days. It really isn't that difficult when you get going.
As for web design, I started in Dreamweaver MX 2004, again, using a few books and it didn't take long to do at all. The books I used were modern and current and had chapters on CSS, etc.
If you feel Dreamweaver is too difficult, then try Net Objects Fusion. A LOT cheaper and a lot easier to use but it obviously lacks the functionality of Dreamweaver.
And btw, I'm a total beginner at web design and do it in my spare time.
If you want me to post the books I used I would be glad to.