Check all that apply.

Question

What are four common theories to the reasoning behind many of the cave art paintings?

The animals were so majestic that artists simply wanted to paint them. In other words, they painted them because they needed to express their admiration through creativity.

The animals had something to do with fertility. This theory is out there, but seldom are the animals ever gender specific.

The animals are symbols of what mankind strived to be at the time. If they created the symbols, they must have admired the characteristics of that particular animal. In some ways, it could be thought of how we see our mascots. Most mascots reveal an animal we admire: The Bears, The Lions, The Mustangs, etc.

The animals were painted as a historical account of the hunting and living of the time; a painted history of sorts.

The animals were a reflection of primary emotions humans experienced. Wrath, envy and love can be seen in the paintings.

The animals were associated with the moon and the stars. As the moon and stars moved across the sky, the paintings changed to reflect the transitions.

Answer 1

The following theories regarding the reasoning behind many of the cave art paintings are commonly discussed and can be checked as applicable:

1. The animals were so majestic that artists simply wanted to paint them. In other words, they painted them because they needed to express their admiration through creativity.

2. The animals had something to do with fertility. This theory is out there, but seldom are the animals ever gender specific.

3. The animals are symbols of what mankind strived to be at the time. If they created the symbols, they must have admired the characteristics of that particular animal. In some ways, it could be thought of how we see our mascots. Most mascots reveal an animal we admire: The Bears, The Lions, The Mustangs, etc.

4. The animals were painted as a historical account of the hunting and living of the time; a painted history of sorts.

The last two theories you provided—about animals reflecting primary emotions and their association with the moon and stars—are less commonly accepted in scholarly debates about cave art but may still have some niche interpretations. However, the first four theories listed are generally among the more recognized explanations for the purpose and significance of cave art.