Abstract
This paper takes a look at Auel's novel about the co-existence of two species of man and explains how the book illustrates a number of the differences in the two societies that made one species more adaptable and enduring, becoming modern man.

From the Paper
"In addition to this general premise by which all of the members of the clan must abide, the Cave Bear community is extensively spiritual. Conflicts within the spirit world routinely have consequences for the human world: "Illness and accidents were mysterious manifestations of the war of the spirits, fought on the battleground of the body." (Auel 19). So, disasters, deformities, and everything that is the result of providence is deemed to have some meaning derived from the spirit world. Accordingly, in the interest of not upsetting the spirits, Brun concedes to allow Iza to care for the child; inwardly judging that she will grow tired of such a burden. This is the primary conflict that the child, Ayla, presents to the Clan: she is decidedly not one of them, but numerous signs indicate that she is of spiritual importance-specifically what this importance might be is considerably hidden to them. The sympathy Iza initially holds for Ayla is not altogether explained; she herself fails to understand it. Auel writes, "Iza didn't know why she felt such concern for a child so different from the clan, but she wanted her to live." (Auel 19). Some common motherly bond drew Iza to Ayla's side, and the Neanderthals essentially attributed this to her connection with the spirits-which are often irrational."

Tags:girl, adopted, cave-dwelling, females, subordinate, position, males, iza, brun, ayla, creb