Positives The book is highly regarded as a valuable and in-depth cultural examination of male homosexuality in Spain, particularly through medical, legal, and social perspectives. Reviewers found it to be a worthwhile investment, praising its thorough use of historical documents to illuminate the evolving concepts of sexuality between the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. It is specifically highlighted for its insightful exploration of the "scientific" treatment of homosexuality during this era. Beyond its core subject, certain sections, such as a chapter on gender discourse related to the emergence of Spanish fascism, are commended as fascinating and well-written insights. The introduction, too, is noted for effectively summarizing the complexities within this field of historical study.
Negatives However, the book faces criticism for its title potentially being misleading, as its primary focus is on the scientific and institutional history of male homosexuality rather than the personal experiences of gay men. Reviewers point out that only one chapter genuinely explores what daily gay lives were like, which some readers found disappointing. Another critique is that the author does not fully achieve the stated goal of demonstrating how Spain's development of gay identity differed from other countries, due to a perceived lack of sufficient comparative analysis. Additionally, the author is occasionally faulted for adopting the language of the historical figures studied, using potentially pathologizing terms without adequate critical distance.
Conclusion Despite these criticisms, the book is generally considered an extremely interesting and valuable contribution to the field. It is strongly recommended for researchers, historians, and academics interested in the medical, legal, and social history of sexuality in Spain during the specified period. It is particularly useful for those studying historical discourse, institutional approaches to sexuality, or broader gender dynamics in early twentieth-century Spain. However, readers primarily seeking narratives of individual experiences or the lived realities of gay men in that era might find the content less direct and may need to focus on specific sections.
