Neanderthal Language : Demystifying the Linguistic Powers of our Extinct Cousins

The book is for scientists and laypersons intrigued by the question whether Neanderthals had language and, if they did, what it was like. It illuminates the linguistic powers of Neanderthals and provides an answer to the question whether modern humans are unique in being the only species that has language.

Did Neanderthals have language, and if so, what was it like? Scientists agree overall that the behaviour and cognition of Neanderthals resemble that of early modern humans in important ways. However, the existence and nature of Neanderthal language remains a controversial topic. The first in-depth treatment of this intriguing subject, this book comes to the unique conclusion that, collective hunting is a better window on Neanderthal language than other behaviours. It argues that Neanderthal hunters employed linguistic signs akin to those of modern language, but lacked complex grammar. Rudolf Botha unpacks and appraises important inferences drawn by researchers working in relevant branches of archaeology and other prehistorical fields, and uses a large range of multidisciplinary literature to bolster his arguments. An important contribution to this lively field, this book will become a landmark book for students and scholars alike, in essence, illuminating Neanderthals'' linguistic powers.