The Pleistocene English Female Superhero: A Myth or a Reality?

Imagine a superheroic Pleistocene or Paleolithic English female human with non-surgical big breasts, a flat stomach, and thin arms with only muscular deltoids. While the concept may seem appealing, the reality is quite different when considering the historical and archaeological evidence.

History and Evolution of England

England as we know it today didn't exist until the 6th century AD. In fact, the concept of a unified England is relatively recent in human history. Before that time, the land we now call England was inhabited by various groups and underwent many changes over the millennia. To explore the idea of a Paleolithic female English superhero, we need to delve into the past and understand the prehistoric inhabitants of the region.

Prehistoric Inhabitants of Britain

During the Pleistocene and earlier eras, Britain was not exclusively occupied by modern human species, Homo sapiens. Instead, earlier evolutionary types such as Homo heidelbergensis, a close ancestor of Homo sapiens, called the land their home. One of the most famous examples is Boxgrove Man, a Neanderthal discovered in the Boxgrove Quarry in West Sussex.

Boxgrove Man, also known as Homo heidelbergensis, would not fit the modern conception of a superhero. He had a much different appearance, resembling the types of Homo erectus found in other parts of the world. Homo erectus had a distinctively different physical form, with a more robust build and less developed cranial features compared to modern humans.

Paleolithic Diet of the Gatherer-Hunters

After the advent of modern Homo sapiens, around 60,000 years ago, Britain began to be inhabited by these early humans. However, the climate of the later Paleolithic era was too cold for widespread occupation. But what did the gatherer-hunters of this period eat? These people, who left us precious art like the famous Lascaux cave art, had a varied diet.

Lascaux cave art, discovered in present-day France, represents a diverse range of animals and reflects the lifestyle of the people who created it. These Homo sapiens were gatherer-hunters who lived in small bands and relied on foraging and hunting for their sustenance. Their diet included:

In addition to these plant-based foods, they hunted a variety of animals, including:

These people also trapped birds and small animals. They used herbs not only for healing but also in ceremonies, suggesting a more holistic approach to natural resources.

Conclusion

While the idea of a Paleolithic superwoman with big breasts, a flat stomach, and muscular arms is intriguing, it doesn't match the reality of the prehistoric inhabitants of Britain. The individuals like Boxgrove Man, and the gatherer-hunters who left us the Lascaux cave art, had a much more humble and varied existence, focused on survival rather than the mythic ideals of modern superheroics.

Understanding the historical and archaeological evidence reveals a more accurate picture of the people who inhabited Britain during the Pleistocene and Paleolithic eras. Whether you are a fan of superheroes or a curious historian, it is fascinating to explore the true nature of our early ancestors and their way of life.