Letter challenges gendered assumption in prehistoric cave art interpretation
In a letter to the editor, Elke Bachler critiques a review of Thomas Laqueur's book The Dog's Gaze, which described a prehistoric cave art scene as depicting "most likely a boy and a dog." Bachler argues there is no evidence the child was a boy, noting that archaeology emerged in the 19th century dominated by men who interpreted evidence based on contemporary gender roles. She asserts that "girl and dog" is equally likely, and that much of what was assumed about early human lives has been challenged in recent decades. The letter was published in response to a review from 17 April.
Key facts
- Elke Bachler wrote a letter questioning a review of The Dog's Gaze by Thomas Laqueur.
- The review described a prehistoric cave art scene as 'most likely a boy and a dog'.
- Bachler states there is no evidence the child was a boy.
- Archaeology as a science emerged in the 19th century dominated by men.
- Interpretations were based on contemporary gender roles.
- Much of what was told about early human lives has been challenged in recent decades.
- Bachler argues 'girl and dog' is just as likely as 'boy and dog'.
- The review was published on 17 April.
Entities
Artists
- Thomas Laqueur
Locations
- London
- United Kingdom