A review by phascolarctos0128
The Cradle of Humanity: Prehistoric Art and Culture by Georges Bataille

5.0

I had an interest in prehistoric art many years ago and have always wanted to read this book. I finally got it and I’m glad I did. Of course much of the information in here is outdated (evolution of humans and interpretations on prehistoric art), but it’s interesting to hear what Bataille’s theories were about the meaning of prehistoric art and culture.

What has stuck with me is what he says about our relationship with animals. Somehow we’ve come to view animals as “things” in the present day. Not worthy of much thought and respect. While we certainly have a level of appreciation for animals and nature, we ultimately view their lives and deaths as insignificant compared to our own.