Classes e classificações na cidade: disputas simbólicas entre frações de elite do Recife

Abstract

This thesis examines the symbolic disputes among upper-middle and upper-class fractions in Recife, focusing on how ways of living, classifying, and representing the city express social distinctions. The contrast between the North and South Zones reveals opposing lifestyles: the former tied to cultural capital and restraint, the latter to economic capital and real estate prestige. Beyond geography, these are socially constructed territories where groups seek recognition and legitimacy. Based on 80 interviews and participant observation, and drawing on Bourdieu, Sherman, Savage, Friedman, and Laurison, the study concludes that full membership in the elites requires not only income or location, but embodied dispositions and symbolic recognition.