Portugal of the Portuguese

"Portugal of the Portuguese" by Aubrey F. G. Bell is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work explores the complexities of Portuguese identity and culture, particularly in the aftermath of significant political upheaval in the early 1900s. Bell aims to convey a deeper understanding of the Portuguese people beyond surface-level stereotypes often shaped by recent political events. The opening of the book presents a comprehensive overview of how the character and identity of the Portuguese have been misconstrued by outsiders. Bell argues against the hasty generalizations made about the Portuguese people, emphasizing that the essence of the nation is far more nuanced than the tumultuous political narratives often presented in the media. He describes the Portuguese as a rich blend of qualities—intelligent, poetic, and patriotic—yet burdened by a history of foreign influences and socio-political strife. This introduction sets the stage for a more profound exploration of the social structures, traditions, and cultural habits of Portugal, which Bell aims to lay bare throughout the subsequent chapters.