What is one of the main purposes of Upper Palaeolithic cave art according to various theories?

The main purpose of Upper Paleolithic cave art, particularly in the context of various anthropological theories, is often thought to be related to promoting fertility and initiation rites. This interpretation arises from the pervasive depiction of animals that were vital for survival, alongside human figures and symbols that suggest ritualistic significance. Scholars propose that these artworks may have been involved in shamanistic practices or fertility-related rituals aimed at ensuring bountiful hunts or successful reproduction of both animals and humans.

In many instances, the caves where these artworks are found, such as those in Lascaux and Chauvet, contain images that seem to reflect concerns about the natural world and human existence, indicating a shared cultural belief in the interconnectedness of life forces. The focus on fertility is supported by the reoccurring motifs of pregnant animals or abstract symbols that could represent fertility.

The other options, while they may represent valid functions for certain cultures or periods, don't align as closely with the prevalent interpretations of Upper Paleolithic art. Recording historical events or documenting everyday life does not encapsulate the spiritual and ritualistic dimensions that many theories suggest. Marking territory could relate to other forms of art or symbolism but is less commonly associated with the cave paintings, which primarily express cultural and ritualistic meanings