The Stories Behind Astrology

The New York Times bestseller that helps you explore whether romance is in the stars. Linda Goodman’s Love Signs addresses the question asked by everyone familiar with astrology: How do I relate to someone of another sign? Each sign is “related” to the twelve signs of the zodiac in a different and unique way. Each section addresses the differences for a male and a female with the same sign matches. This is an updated edition of Linda Goodman’s lively bestseller, which has introduced millions to the concept of astrological compatibility. “What seems to set Goodman’s books apart from other stargazing guides is their knowledgeable approach and comprehensive reach.” —Newsweek

Discover the intriguing mythology behind the planets and Zodiac signs that rule Western astrology, and learn how to channel the energy of each star sign to live your best life. Have you ever wondered why the Zodiac signs are associated with certain animals? Or how a crab (Cancer) came to rule a part of the sky? Or, for that matter, what it means to have Taurus, the stubborn bull, as your star sign? Whether you’re a fiery Aries, a mysterious Scorpio, or a sassy Sagittarius, you can discover the fascinating, sometimes forgotten, and often wild Greek and Roman mythology that gave rise to the star signs and planet names, while learning the stories behind: Aries, the ram; Taurus, the bull; Gemini, the twins; Cancer, the crab; Leo, the lion; Virgo, the maiden; Libra, the scales; Scorpio, the scorpion; Sagittarius, the archer; Capricorn, the goat; Aquarius, the cup bearer; Pisces, the fish; Venus, the planet of love; Mars, the planet of war … and more! With stunning, specially commissioned illustrations from Jennifer Parks (@spectralgardens) and rituals and affirmations included at the end of each story to help you harness the power of every sign and planet, whether you’re a super grounded Taurus looking to bring more activist Aquarius energy into your life, or a dreamy Pisces looking to get focused like no-nonsense Virgo, this book is for you.

This volume examines the specific role of horoscopic astrology in Western culture from antiquity to the nineteenth century. Focusing on the public appearance of astrological rhetoric, the essays break new ground for a better understanding of the function of horoscopes in public discourse. The volume's three parts address the use of imperial horoscopes in late antiquity, the transformation of doctrines and rhetorics in Islamic medieval contexts, and the important status of astrology in early modern Europe. The combination of in-depth historical studies and methodological considerations results in an important contribution to religious and cultural studies.

A Brief History of Ancient Astrology explores the theory and practice of astrology from Babylon to Ancient Greece and Rome and its cultural and political impact on ancient societies. Discusses the union between early astrology and astronomy, in contrast to the modern dichotomy between science and superstition. Explains the ancient understanding of the zodiac and its twelve signs, the seven planets, and the fixed circle of 'places' against which the signs and planets revolve. Demonstrates how to construct and interpret a horoscope in the ancient manner, using original ancient horoscopes and handbooks. Considers the relevance of ancient astrology today.

Discover the hidden meaning of stars in this first introduction to astrology for children. Secrets of Astrology tells you all you want to know about astrology, from the meaning of zodiac signs, to how to read a birth chart. Simple, readable text clearly explains the origins of astrology, the role of the planets, and the significance of the 12 Houses. Young astrologers are guided through all of the different zodiac signs, and can learn more about themselves in the process. Bold, colorful illustrations bring key concepts to life, and make this the perfect addition to your bookshelf. This book is the perfect gift for budding astrologers, or those who love the night sky.

Look to the stars for directions you can safely follow for the rest of your life. This easy-to-use guide describes how to locate your important life patterns as the basis for a meaningful life and fruitful relationships.

An illuminating look at the surprising history and science of astrology, civilization’s first system of algorithms, from Babylon to the present day. Humans are pattern-matching creatures, and astrology is the universe’s grandest pattern-matching game. In this refreshing work of history and analysis, data scientist Alexander Boxer examines classical texts on astrology to expose its underlying scientific and mathematical framework. Astrology, he argues, was the ancient world’s most ambitious applied mathematics problem, a monumental data-analysis enterprise sustained by some of history’s most brilliant minds, from Ptolemy to al-Kindi to Kepler. Thousands of years ago, astrologers became the first to stumble upon the powerful storytelling possibilities inherent in numerical data. To correlate the configurations of the cosmos with our day-to-day lives, astrologers relied upon a “scheme of heaven,” or horoscope, showing the precise configuration of the planets at a particular instant in time as viewed from a particular place on Earth. Although recognized as pseudoscience today, horoscopes were once considered a cutting-edge scientific tool. Boxer teaches us how to read these esoteric charts—and appreciate the complex astronomical calculations needed to generate them—by diagramming how the heavens appeared at important moments in astrology’s history, from the assassination of Julius Caesar as viewed from Rome to the Apollo 11 lunar landing as seen from the surface of the Moon. He then puts these horoscopes to the test using modern data sets and statistical science, arguing that today’s data scientists do work similar to astrologers of yore. By looking back at the algorithms of ancient astrology, he suggests, we can better recognize the patterns that are timeless characteristics of our own pattern-matching tendencies. At once critical, rigorous, and far ranging, A Scheme of Heaven recontextualizes astrology as a vast, technological project—spanning continents and centuries—that foreshadowed our data-driven world today.

What can the starry skies tell you about yourself and others? More than you might imagine. For over four thousand years, people have watched the skies, correlating the movements of the Sun, the Moon, and the planets with human affairs. Astrology for Dummies shows the reader how to use that accumulated wisdom to identify strengths and weaknesses, discover creative abilities, understand relationships, and make the most of the times in which we live. Using an abundance of real-life examples, author Rae Orion offers an incisive account of each sign and planet, taking the reader far beyond the daily horoscope and illuminating the birth chart in all its individuality and complexity. Astrology for Dummies examines the time-honored ways astrology helps us understand ourselves and others. From how to map and interpret individual horoscopes to building and reading birth charts, Astrology For Dummies provides you with the tools to apply the art of astrology to your everyday life. Explore the long, multi-cultural, occasionally bloody history of astrology Discover useful advice about romance, career, and wellness Find the creative potential to be found in every sign and every birth chart Unravel the mysteries behind Mercury retrograde and other celestial phenomena Delve into the horoscopes of dozens of famous (and infamous) people, both past and present Investigate different ways to align yourself with the cosmos. Astrology hasn’t been around for millennia for nothing. It’s a practical tool, a symbolic language, a way to expand awareness, a means to increase empathy, and an exploration that touches the soul. Whether you want to learn about yourself, understand others, or glimpse the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead, the answers are here — and in the stars!

What truly is behind the astrology of romantic relationships? With these tools, you’ll finally be able to measure more accurately the complex forces that shape character and personality, and draw people together...or pull them apart. Beginning with the Sun sign and going beyond, this astrological love guide explores more unfamiliar celestial territory. The Moon speaks eloquently about emotions, Venus reveals a person’s requirements for romance, and Mars points to propensities for physical passion. Lists for each sign feature spiritual goals, positive and negative characteristics, likes and dislikes, and much more. Find out in detail just what your horoscope says about you--and what your partner’s reveals. It’s a great way to chart--and make--a love connection.

This fascinating collection presents twelve stories of the zodiac, featuring a variety of Greek gods and goddesses, as well as heroes and heroines who battle ferocious monsters. Children will enjoy the exciting stories of Jason and the Argonauts, Demeter and Persephone, and Theseus and the hideous Minotaur. Other stories feature Zeus, Hermes, and Aphrodite, making this a wonderful Introduction to Greek mythology. The book also provides an easy-to-understand explanation of how stars move throughout the sky, along with descriptions of the personality traits modern horoscopes attribute to each sign.