Defining Distinction: Social Guides and Annuaries in Spain, 1903-1933

Abstract

At the beginning of the 20th century, Spanish nobility was full of contradictions. Although titles granted in the 19th century had changed its members’ profile, History was still one of its main elements of distinction. Despite the disappearance of their privileges, being noble was a widespread aspiration among elites. Titles were sought for and nobility was recognized as a symbol of social prestige. Social guides and directories talked about this recognition. At the time, they defined and modified the aspects that underscored this distinction. Moreover, looking at nobility from this point of view gives another perspective about the deep social transformations that took place in Spain in the first years of the century.

Keywords

• guías de sociedad
• nobleza
• Alfonso XIII
• Grandes de España.