Fire in the round: A holistic approach to the Lower Palaeolithic record

Whilst several explanations have been proposed for the absence of fire-related behaviours at well preserved Lower Palaeolithic sites, much emphasis previous research has concentrated on our ability to find fire in archaeological record. Furthermore, evolutionary models early hominin engagement often developed and discussed context African hominins. Here we explore role behaviours, choices lives hominins during earliest occupations temperate regions, with a focus Europe. We consider use Europe’s specific palaeoenvironmental conditions discuss whether long or short chronology model best fits current evidence controlled these regions Palaeolithic. propose two latitudes, using heuristic ‘macroscale microscale’ approach understanding needs — this period. argue that such holistic approaches must combine experimental work, experiential observations cost-benefit should site function, social behaviour, mobility, evaluate limited highlight that, varying seasonality, function (and associated costs benefits) was particular importance may explain overall paucity prior Middle This implications other potential survival strategies are invisible record, as shelter, clothing, putrefaction meat later consumption.