Personality Characteristics Essay Paper

Zodiac Signs and Personality Characteristics Essay Paper

The sky is the most mysterious part of our everyday experience. Familiarity may make the amazing events going on at ground level seem almost ordinary. Plants and animals grow and die, rain falls, rivers flow. We feel we understand that.Horoscopes are not just randomly thought up each day by the writer. Astrology is the study of how events in people’s daily lives correspond. Horoscopes are carefully researched, interpreted, and written by analyzing the placement of the stars and planets on a given day. The growth of astrology, and the resulting knowledge, is closely tied to the study of constellations. Astrology has grown from the past and by researching the history of astrology and constellations one can infer that they have a similar history and future to the world. The concepts of astrology became more widely used and understood, many ancient civilizations.Zodiac Signs and Personality Characteristics Essay Paper

 

Permalink: https://eaziessay.com/zodiac-signs-and…cs-essay-paper/

 

Astrology is the study of positions and aspects of celestial bodies in the belief that they have an influence on the course of natural earthly occurrences and human affairs.

Have you ever wondered what the signs of the Zodiac mean? When we turn on the TV^ it seems we always see an advertisement on horoscope predictions.

People call in and get the predictions they have been looking for. When the newspaper first arrives, some people go to the horoscope section first.

Zodiac signs are based off the astrological constellations that are divided into twelve sections. Each sign has its own special meaning according to what constellation a birthday falls on, and all have names. The names of the Zodiacs are Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Capricorn, Leo, Libra, Virgo, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Pisces, and Aquarius. Each of these signs has an element, in example: Earth, Water, Fire, and Air. The Earth signs are Capricorn, Taurus, and Virgo. The Water signs are Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces. The Fire signs are Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius. The Air signs are Libra, Aquarius, and Gemini (Zodiac Signs, Characteristics, and Meanings).
Earth signs are considered to be “grounded”, conservative and realistic, also very loyal and reliable. Water signs are the most emotional bunch of the signs, are considered to be overly emotional and ultra-sensitive, but always support friends and family, while having a keen interest in philosophy and intimacy. The Fire signs are passionate and very temperamental, but are said to be creative, realistic, and very intelligent. Finally, The Air signs are the most rational of the signs, very social and love to communicate; are said to be the best in relationships due to a range of communication skills and relaxed nature. The Zodiacs all have one ‘s own place, and tend to sometimes not get along with interfering elements (Zodiac Signs, Characteristics, and Meanings).
There are no incompatible signs of the Zodiac.Astrology is the study of planetary influences and their affect on the world and
everything in it. Astrology is usually limited to human beings–their nature,
and their affairs, although a chart can be drawn up for just about any event.
The horoscope is a blue print or pattern of the solar systemcast for a
particular moment of time. It is from this that the astrologer bases the
interpretation or delineation as indicated by the nature of the sun, moon, and
planets.

The natal horoscope is a chart drawn at the moment of birth to see and
understand the nature and makeup of the soul of the newborn as it takes
residence in the physical vehicle or body. The human soul is a focal point of
cosmic energy, and the pattern of the heavens, as charted in the horoscope, is
the means the soul comes to know itself and its destiny.

Astrology points the way to soul development and growth. The soul’s strengths
and weaknesses are noted in the horoscope. Life is an opportunity given to soul
for further enhancement. Zodiac Signs and Personality Characteristics Essay Paper

The zodiac calendar is an astrological theory that divides the path that the sun seems to follow around the earth into twelve equal sections, each of which are associated with a sign, a symbol and a personality type. John Gardner embraces this astrological theme in his parallel novel, Grendel, by connecting each of the twelve chapters to its coinciding zodiac.
Grendel’s astrological journey starts out with Aires. The beginning of this new Zodiac cycle disturbs Grendel because of how cyclical. Aires’s symbol, the ram, disgusts Grendel because it repeats the same motions that it had repetition without even realizing that fate is repeating itself. Although Grendel possesses the physical attributes of a beast, he doesn’t succumb to the same anomalistic urge to mount anything. The ram’s stupidity and lack of dignity separate Grendel from the community of beasts.
In chapter two, while innocently adventuring, Grendel traps his foot in a crack between two old trees and, suddenly, a bull defending a calf begins to attack Grendel. After one successful stab at his knee, Grendel finds an easy way to avoid nearly all of the bull’s lunges. Before long, the repetitive, mechanical bull hardly even phases Grendel. The bull, unlike Hrothgar and his men, incompetently flings itself at Grendel’s tree the same way it would fight anything Like the ram, the bull’s stupidity contrasts Grendel from the common beast that doesn’t “even know that the calves they defend are theirs.” (20) The bull’s “brute enmity” (22) is compared to mankind’s competence when Hrothgar and his men attack Grendel.Zodiac Signs and Personality Characteristics Essay Paper

Astrology has been around 2300 BC (). Philosophers and Astrologers wheeled their lives around man and star relations. Astrology started of how the sun, moon, planets, and stars, are supposedly related to life events (). The key word supposedly. Astrology is nothing more than a psychological addiction of beliefs in the zodiac, horoscope and signs. The possibility that the stars can tell the future of a person is a hoax, the belief that the influences of the heavenly bodies and the practice of diving events from the astronomical observations (). Back in the Roman Empire time astrology made its way into observation of future predictions of roman emperors, through out time astrologers took scientific principles and placed them into the understanding that every person has one future. Now in modern day time astrology found its way away from the stars and to the newspapers. Planets, stars, and weather, there is no answer or related suspicions that the heavenly body and celestrial phenomenon can determine the way people act, and speak. Astrology came as a religion you can believe or disbelieve.
Astrology made its way around the world in its own way. It originated in ancient Babylonia, although records only were dated back to 2500 BC. In china was the earliest record of any astrology dating back to 2300 BC. Greek astrology arose about the same time and then India astrology came to be. It was claimed that astrology came to be because of Greek contact (). Astrology spread much like a religion consuming astrologers in every country making of it what they could.
During the 2500 BC astrology became a form of prediction, staring in china (). This was the start of the early days of the impact on the modern day entertainment. Rulers of countries took their fate and placed it in the hands of astrology. It would predict their fate and the fate of their country, weather it be war, peace, famine, or plenty (). Zodiac Signs and Personality Characteristics Essay Paper

They base the entire day or entire week on the report they get. It seems that this phenomenon is something all new, or is it? Astrology has been around since ancient times, even dating back to biblical days.

Astrology has a long line of history and a bright future. The signs of the Zodiac include: Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius and Pisces.

Astrologers also claim the planets play a role in many key factors. We will also look at astrology as a science; a way to predict and control our life and our destiny.

Although many people refer to astrology as just being superstitious others say the predictions are not worth the paper they are written on. Astrology is a phenomenon that dates back to biblical days.

There is an ancient legend, that Adam received the doctrines and mysteries of astrology direct from his Maker and thus by foreknowing that the earth was to be destroyed first by fire and afterwards by water. Astrology has played an important role in our civilisation.

Starting with Adam and even being present in today’s society. Different civilisations seemed to be practicing astrology independently. People noticed the Sun in particular had a change on how crops grew. Many people viewed astronomy and astrology as a similar science until the 1500s.Zodiac Signs and Personality Characteristics Essay Paper

People knew by looking at the sun or what the size of the moon was when to plant crops or even when a baby was going to be born. These early astrologers were searching for their place in life.

A place where they fit into the universe. They believed that every component of the universe was linked together and everyone had their own place.

Every aspect of one’s life was based on the planets and the stars. Even behaviour was blamed on the position of the sun!

Astrology is widely practiced today. Even today most farmers have a Farmer’s Almanac. This book tells you when to plant your crops, and many people have success.

Some won’t even think about planting crops without this information. This is a form of astrology, although many people do not realise it.

A popular form of astrology is the Physic Friends Network. This is a 900 number you can call in to see what your sign is and how this affects you.

The astrologers on the Physic Friends Network always seem to know what has happened in the past and what will occur in the future.

Everyone who says they are astrologers obviously are not and it’s up to us to use our own judgement to decide.

When you hear people talk about signs of the Zodiac you often wonder what does that mean? Ancient astronomers noted that the sun makes a yearly journey across the celestial sphere, part of which is represented in the picture by the blue band.

The ancient astronomers associated dates with the constellations in this narrow belt (which is known as the Zodiac), assigning to each constellation of stars the dates when the sun was in the same region of the celestial sphere as the constellation.

Each Zodiac sign belongs to four different elements: Fire, Air, Earth and Water. Fire is a positive element; this element focuses on changing energy from one form to another. Air is also a positive element that is associated with the spiritual part of life.

Earth on the other hand is a negative element that is solid and approves of people on earth. The last element is water this is to a negative element that tends to be mysterious.Zodiac Signs and Personality Characteristics Essay Paper

Astrologers say they can predict your life through this sign but often you can be very similar to other zodiac signs. Astrologers say that the best way to explain zodiac signs is to ‘imagine that your divine spirit is imprisoned in an earthly form, much like animals in a cage.’

They can predict what moods you will be in, what type of person you will marry or even the sports you like to play! These kinds of predictions may or may not come true. Not all astrologers can understand or interpret your true readings. Even if you do not believe in astrology, you can still have a good time.

When you pay a minimal charge to find out what the future holds for you, you always want to hear good news. Although sometimes there will be bad news as well.

It is believed that planets tend to affect our lines in many ways. They play an important role in our universe. Research has been done to prove that the weather and earthquakes can be determined through a close look at the planets. The developments are still in the first stages.

The future of astrology could be significant in the predictions of dangerous hurricanes and earthquakes. These facts may aid in saving lives. Astrologers served in the king’s court in early times to predict many things.

When a battle was going to take pace or even the fate of their kingdoms. Many astrologers held influential and well paid positions.

But the sky is beyond comprehension. Two great objects travel through it, one hot and constant, the other cold and changeable. In the daytime it is moody; there may be blazing sun, or racing clouds, or darkness followed by thunder and lightning. And yet on a clear night the sky is the very opposite – predictable, if you look hard enough, with recognizable groups of stars moving in a slow but reliable manner.For many years everyday people have looked up to the night sky: studying it, looking for constellations, or just enjoying its beauty.  Astrologists look up to the night sky to find their various predictions on life.  Numberless years ago, Native Americans looked up to the night sky to figure out when to hunt and fish.  Today, people open up their newspaper to read their daily horoscope.  The conclusions made in astrology are based on the movements of the planets and stars in the sky.  Astrology can predict the future and explain the personality traits of a person based on when they were born.  The results made about astrology are accurate and astrologists work hard to figure out these predictions.
I find astrology very interesting and think the predictions made are true.  For one, my zodiac sign is the air element, Libra, balanced and creative, while my best friend is a Gemini, which is also an air element.  The Libra sign and Gemini sign are known to get along very well.  I am also supposed to get along with the Aquarius sign, and I do have a few good friends who are an Aquarius.  Some of the traits of a Libra are extroverted, analytical, unbiased, secretive, and will collapse in the face of conflict.  I think most of those traits describe me well.Zodiac Signs and Personality Characteristics Essay Paper
The Aztec, Mayan, and Incan cultures first discovered astrology.  But the Babylonians developed western astrology, the astrology based on when an individual was born (Grabianowski 7).  Years ago, Native Americans used astrology to figure out the weather, when to plant and harvest crops, when to hunt, fish, make war, make peace, and make love.  Astrology was also used to tell when to travel by sea, and used to tell myth and legend stories (Grabianowski 7).  Many years later people still used astrology to figure out how to find food and survive, but “in Roman times practicing astrology was punishable by death” (“Astrology” 1).
Ultimately, Astrology is based on the movements of planets, stars, sun, moon, etc. in the sky.  “The position of the sun, stars, moon, and planets at the time of one’s birth is said to shape their personality, affect romantic relationships, and predict economic fortunes, among other divinations.” (Grabianowski 2).  The locations of the planets can change the way people with certain zodiac signs act, which is how astrologists predict horoscopes (Grabianowski 2).  Astrology is said to predict or explain the changing of seasons, wars, economic hardship.
There are twelve zodiac signs.  Each sign has a constellation in the night sky.  The zodiac constellations that are visible in the night sky change throughout the four seasons (Gurshtein 1).  One’s sign is determined by which constellation the sun was in when they were born.  The twelve zodiac signs are Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces.  Each zodiac sign has different personality traits, a planet, and a symbol.  Some of the traits of the planets come from the Greek Gods (Bakich 1).  The zodiac can also be called the “circle of animals” because most of the zodiac symbols are animals.
Astrology can be used to predict the future of an individual and the compatibility between two people.  The zodiac signs’ compatibility is based on what their element is.  The four elements are fire, earth, air, and water.  Signs of the same element are known to get along.The fire elements are Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius.  The earth elements are Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn.  The air elements are Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius.  The water elements are Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces.  Fire and air elements are known to not get along, while earth and water elements are known to not get along (Grabianowski 4).  I do have friends who are Aries, who I do get along with very well.  But, I’m not as close to them as I am with my Gemini friends, which proves the compatibility of astrology.
Each zodiac sign acquires different personality traits.  Some signs are known to be more loyal in relationships than others.  Libra, Capricorn, and Gemini are the most loyal.  Aquarius and Pisces are least loyal.  Some signs possess more traits that would lead to marriage than others.  Cancer, Libra, and Taurus possess more traits that would lead to a happy marriage.  Gemini and Sagittarius possess more traits that would lead to a divorce or avoiding marriage (Reichardt 1).  In a survey I conducted, 68% of the people said the personality traits for their sign did or somewhat did describe them (James 1).  Certain signs are more likely to develop a disease or illness.  Aquarius and Pisces are most likely to develop schizophrenia.  Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces are known to have the worst bipolar disorder.  Virgo is likely to not develop schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.  Gemini, Cancer, Leo, and Virgo are likely to have dyslexia (Hayden 1).
Consequently, some people think astrology is a science, others think it is a religion, and some think it is all made up.  Astrology can also be thought of a superstition or even magic.  In a survey I conducted, 73% of the people thought astrology was a superstition  (James 1).  Astrology has faced loads of criticism over the years.  A lot of the criticism comes from churches and the “scientific community” (“Astrology” 1).  “The Bible specifically warns against astrology” (Astrology 1), so many religious people do not believe in it.  Some scientists think “ the idea that planetary bodies billions of miles away can somehow affect human behavior is absurd” (“Astrology” 1).  Even though all the criticism encountering, Astrology is still very popular today.  “Never have the principles of science and rational thinking been more clearly understood than today, and yet 84 million Americans believe in astrology” (Bakich 1).  Many people still read their daily horoscopes in the newspaper and astrology “helps in-force the idea that our lives are not random, but meaningful and purposeful” (“Astrology” 1).
Astrologists use the planets and stars in the sky to predict the future and make assumptions.  Astrology has been used for countless years and still remains to be widely used today.  There is a reason that astrology has not died out over the years, and that is because it actually works: the predictions, personality traits, and compatibility.  Even astrologists still don’t understand exactly how astrology works — but that it definitely does.

Man’s interest in the sky is at the heart of three separate stories – astronomy, astrology and the calendar. .

Astronomy is the scientific study of sun, moon and stars. Astrology is a pseudo-science interpreting the supposed effect of the heavenly bodies on human existence. In early history the two are closely linked. The sky is the home of many of the gods, who influence life on earth. And the patterns in the sky must surely reflect that influence.Zodiac Signs and Personality Characteristics Essay Paper

 

If you have been asked to write a research paper about the topic of zodiac signs then you may be wondering what kind of titles you can use. If you’re interested in horoscopes and astrology then you may well have a few ideas already that you might like to use; however, if this isn’t the kind of thing that you would normally be interested in, then you may be struggling to think of something to write about for your essay.

In order to help you think of good ideas for your research paper, the following provides a range of suggestions that can help you to learn and understand more about zodiac signs, and how you can base an academic paper on this topic.

 

• Reading horoscopes in newspapers

 

To give you a better understanding of how zodiac signs and horoscopes work, including details relating to the different dates used for different zodiac signs, then it can be a good idea to read the relevant sections found in newspapers and magazines. As well as getting a better understanding of different dates, you’ll be able to understand more about how the different signs work, such as which ones are the water and fire signs, amongst others.

 

• Researching on the Internet

 

As well as looking for horoscopes that have been printed in various publications, you may wish to look online for further details about zodiac signs. As well as being able to get a better understanding of what sort of content is used in various horoscopes in connection with zodiac signs, you will also be able to research more accurately about details relating to how the various zodiac signs relate to one another as well.Zodiac Signs and Personality Characteristics Essay Paper

Once you have a better understanding, having read newspapers and researched online, you will be able to put this information to good use when thinking of a good topic. Alternatively, before you start looking at these various sources, you may wish to take a look at the ideas below.

• Is there any truth to horoscopes?
• An in-depth analysis of horoscopes and how accurate they are
• Why do people believe in horoscopes?
• Can zodiac signs be responsible for self-fulfilling prophecies?
• A comparison of the number of people who identify different zodiac signs throughout the population?
• A history of zodiac signs
• An analysis of world leaders and their zodiac signs
• What role does the astronomy play in relation to zodiac signs?
• How were zodiac signs discovered or invented?
• An analysis of the different categories of zodiac signs

Astrology is an elaborate system of knowledge and there are voluminous treatises containing very intricate calculation based on the position of stars and planets and the inter-relation existing between them and the various phenomena on earth including human life.When I was little, I really didn’t know what astrology was or what your zodiac sign was. When I was growing up, I finally figured out what it all meant and how it worked. From that point on I was instantly clicked. I loved reading my horoscope and when ever I did read it, nine out of ten times it would be right, and that’s why I loved reading my horoscope. It was just something I did every morning, and then I would go throughout my day. Then at night when I would be back on the computer, i would reread them, and realize that most of the time those things did happen, or I did feel that type of emotion. When I was little, I really didn’t know what astrology was or what your zodiac sign was. When I was growing up, I finally figured out what it all meant and how it worked. From that point on I was instantly clicked. I loved reading my horoscope and when ever I did read it, nine out of ten times it would be right, and that’s why I loved reading my horoscope. It was just something I did every morning, and then I would go throughout my day. Then at night when I would be back on the computer, i would reread them, and realize that most of the time those things did happen, or I did feel that type of emotion.

“Astrology does not offer an explanation of the laws of the universe, nor why the universe exists. What it does, to put it in simplest terms, is to show that there is a correspondence between macrocosm and microcosm. In short that there is a rhythm to the universe, and that man’s own life partakes of this rhythm.” (Miller, 2006) My belief is that the nature of our behavior is based on astronomy; hence the reason that people who share the same zodiac sign have very similar characteristics, and sometimes a combination of people with certain zodiac signs cannot get along or are very compatible. Sometimes I can tell from a person’s sign because of their behavior, and likes and dislikes. Learning more about astrology and the zodiac signs helps us to understand people and their actions. Many argue that it is coincidence, but the odds are too high to be that.Zodiac Signs and Personality Characteristics Essay Paper

Astrology’s major focus is the zodiac which help in determine the characteristics of a person and the events that may take place. Therefore, at this point it becomes impertinent to cast a glance at zodiac signs,

The Zodiac

The zodiac is the term used to describe the circle of twelve 30° divisions of celestial longitude that are centered upon the ecliptic – the path of the sun. The term zodiac derives from Latin zōdiacus, which in its turn comes from a Greek word, meaning “circle of animals”.

From the earliest of times, the zodiac has been universally used to predict or reflect characteristics of personality, whether from the Chinese, Mesopotamian, Indus Valley, Egyptian or any other culture, echoing the ancient philosophy ‘As above – so below’… what we today call astrology.

The zodiac further categorizes into the planets and the elements which consist or represent the 12 zodiac signs, also known as the Sun signs: Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius and Pisces.

Zodiac Signs

The Zodiac signs, also known as the Sun Signs, represent the 12 equal divisions of the topical zodiac which begins with the positions of the Sun. The twelve signs have the same names as the 12 segments of the constellations. The dates for each sign is determined by the Sun passing one sign to another. The dates are as follows:

Glyph Sign Birthdates Symbol

♈ Aries (the Ram) March 21 – April 20

♉ Taurus (the Bull) April 21 – May 21

♊

Gemini (the Twins) May 22 – June 21

♋ Cancer (the Crab) June 22 – July 22

♌ Leo (the Lion) July 23 – August 23

♍ Virgo (the Virgin) August 24 – September 23

♎ Libra (the Balance) September 24 – October 23

♏ Scorpio (the Scorpion) October 24 – November 22

♐ Sagittarius (the Archer) November 23 – December 21

â™’ Capricorn (the Goat) December 22 – January 20

â™’ Aquarius (the Water-Bearer) January 21 – February 19

â™” Pisces (the Fish) February 20 – March 20

Aries

Element: Fire

Ruling Planet: Mars

Symbol: The Ram

Psychological Need: To be self-confident and free; to lead

Best Quality: Leadership

Key Traits: self-esteem, initiative, activity, pioneering, ambition, enterprise, courageous, energetic, impulsive, optimistic, egotistical, innovative, original, strong drive, leader, enthusiastic, extroverted, competitive, self-reliant, self-assured

Downside: egotistical, quick tempered, aggressiveness, hatred of restraint, officiousness (minding other people’s business, meddling)

Aries is a Fire sign whose ruling planet is Mars. This planet represents action, anger, energy and sex. This is considered a masculine sign, positive, extrovert.Zodiac Signs and Personality Characteristics Essay Paper

Aries is the first sign of the zodiac, and also represents spring. The personality characteristics of this signs are as follows:

• This sign has a “me first” attitude

• Are courageous and have an energetic drive to get the work done and to achieve goals

• Pure honesty is expected by an Aries personality

• Independence is a keyword of Aries personalities of astrology signs.

• The Aries person has a tendency to be quick-tempered, opinionated, and critical.

• Labelled as intolerant, selfish, cruel, and arrogant.

• Aries personalities of astrology signs may have strong drive, high leadership qualities and be quite ambitious

• Have strong self-reliance and self-assuredness.

• They have a determined personality of astrology sign along with a powerful ego.

Taurus

Element: Earth

Ruling Planet: Venus

Symbol: The Bull

Psychological Need: To be resourceful and productive

Best Quality: Stability

Key Traits: affectionate, dependable, patient, stable, determination, endurance, thoroughness, conservative, harmony, possessions, practicality

Downside: obstinacy, stubbornness, argumentative, possessiveness, love of rich food, dull

Taurus is an earth sign ruled by the planet Venus in the common man and Vulcan in the man on the path to discipleship. Venus is the planet of harmony, love, beauty and music. The personality characteristics of this signs are as follows:

• They can be patient, reliable, warmhearted and loving. But, the flip-side is also just as common where they become possessive, overly emotional, self-indulgent and jealous.

• Are known for their stability, reliability and dependability.

• They are prone to being inflexible, short tempered, argumentative and the most stubborn

• Taurus can be quite materialistic and greedy

• They are conservative, conventional and introverted.

Gemini

Element: Air

Ruling Planet: Mercury

Symbol: The Twins

Psychological Need: To communicate

Best Quality: Versatility

Key Traits: versatile, adaptable, nonconformist, inquisitive, curious, quick-witted, communication, networking, congenial, tactful, mentality, thinking, writing, speaking, literacy, speech, intellectual

Downside: changeable, fickle, indecision, superficiality, restless, nervousness

Gemini is an air sign ruled by Mercury in the common man and Venus in the man on the path to discipleship. Venus is the planet of harmony, love, beauty and music. The personality characteristics of this signs are as follows:

• Gemini are known to be “sociable.”

• They appear to be restless or often scheming Zodiac Signs and Personality Characteristics Essay Paper

• The Gemini person is usually very versatile, flexible and a jack-of-all-trades making them appear quite intelligent

• Gemini are scatter brained, silly and at best flexible

• These lively, youthful people are not only quick-witted but great conversationalist.

• Are vain, cold and insensitive

• Are superficial because of their changeable nature.

• Some can be very rigid idealists

Cancer

Element: Water

Ruling Planet: Moon

Symbol: The Crab

Psychological Need: To give and receive emotional warmth and security

Best Quality: Tenacity

Key Traits: domesticity, sympathy, sensitiveness, artistry, tenacity, protectiveness, caring, nurturing, maternal

Downside: touchiness, timidity, clannishness, restlessness, indolence, overemotional, over-sentimental

Cancer is a water sign ruled by the Moon in the common man and Neptune in the man on the path to discipleship. Neptune is the planet of mystical consciousness, or the innate sensitivity which leads to higher vision. The personality characteristics of this signs are as follows:

• Intimate relationships and close friendships are important to a Cancer than another personality of astrology sign.

• Cancers are homebodies who love their families and their homes.

• They have a strong intuition

• Safety and security are important

• The Cancer person can be deeply emotional in fact overly emotional or sensitive at times to the point of being clingy, moody and irritable.

• Cancers make loving and caring intimate partners.

• Cancers are generous and kind to others spent.

• Cancers thrive on emotional stability.

• They can be too cautious, lazy, selfish and self-centered at times.

Leo

Element: Fire

Ruling Planet: Sun

Symbol: The Lion

Psychological Need: To create and express oneself

Best Quality: Kindness (generosity)

Key Traits: affection, nobility, generosity, loyalty, dignity, leadership, radiant, vitality, authority, will, power

Downside: domination, arrogance, autocracy, cruelty, overbearing, vanity, ostentatious, false pride

Leo is a fire sign ruled by the Sun in the common man and also the in the man on the path to discipleship. The Sun represents your ego structure. The personality characteristics of this signs are as follows:

• Are confident individuals who are the most extroverted and flamboyant

• These people can be very magnetic, sunny, and charismatic,

• Leos have been known to over dramatization and act vainly when they express themselves.

• They have a strong sense of character.

• Leo rules the sense of self-worth.

Virgo

Element: Earth

Ruling Planet: Mercury

Symbol: The Virgin

Psychological Need: To analyze and find order

Best Quality: Analytical

Key Traits: discrimination, analytical, methodical-ness, service, helpful, studiousness, hygiene, purity, mentality

Downside: criticism, cynicism, fear of disease, perfectionism

Virgo is an earth sign ruled by the planet Mercury in the common man and the Moon in the man on the path to discipleship. The personality characteristics of this signs are as follows:

• Virgo people are the most health conscious

• A Virgo would be a careful planner, calm, helpful, and dependable

• They have a perfectionist attitude with fragile egos.

• Virgos are very practical and responsible, but at times they can be picky, disorganized and even dependent.

• If a Virgo becomes melancholy, they can project the worst of their negative side of fault finding, picky, superficial, critical and petty.

• They are delightful people who will do anything for you in an unselfish, dependable and meticulous way.

• Virgos can go overboard and become nervous hypochondriacs with their health consciousness.Zodiac Signs and Personality Characteristics Essay Paper

• They make romantic partners, with a good sense of humor, and can be impressive conversationalist.

• They have excellent organizational skills

Libra

Element: Air

Ruling Planet: Venus

Symbol: The Scales

Psychological Need: To create harmony and balance

Best Quality: Affability

Key Traits: balance, harmony, companionship, charm, social grace, justice, courtesy, hopefulness, artistic ability, attractiveness, fairness

Downside: always needing approbation, indecision, lack of poise, emotional fluctuation, can’t say no

Libra is an air sign ruled by Venus in the common man and Uranus in the man on the path to discipleship. Venus influences your love nature. Venus is the Goddess of love and beauty, as well as the light of inspiration and devotion to truth. Uranus rules your search for freedom. It represents that which transcends the limits of the finite life. The personality characteristics of this sign are as follows:

• A Libra person has a strong sense of what they consider right and wrong.

• They have a need for peace, as well as to please everyone and have everyone like them.

• Balance is their goal

• When the worst comes out in a Libra can be insincere, fickled, self-indulgent who can be quite apathetic.

• They are extroverts and sociable

• They are charming fair-minded person will be poised gracious and kind.

• Libra’s have been known to be somewhat flirtatious, tending towards gossip since others feel very comfortable around these sociable types.

• But they are known for their the white lies, self-indulgence, and their need for peace at any price

• They are easily influenced and quite gullible at times.

• They will be loyal and fair

Scorpio

Element: Water

Ruling Planet: Pluto/Mars

Symbol: The Scorpion

Psychological Need: To experience intense emotional transformation

Best Quality: Resourcefulness

Key Traits: regeneration, courage, desire, resourcefulness, cunning, secretive, austere, determined

Downside: discord, misuse of sex, passion, temper, willfulness, vindictive, resentful, jealousy, envy, possessiveness, troublesome, uncompromising

Scorpio is a water sign ruled by the planets Mars and Pluto in the common man and Mars also in the man on the path to discipleship. The personality characteristics of this signs are as follows:Zodiac Signs and Personality Characteristics Essay Paper

• Desire of all kinds rule this sign.

• Scorpio are strong-willed, bold, courageous, competitive, resourceful, mysterious and direct.

• Scorpios have one of the most intense, intuitive and complex souls of the personalities of astrology signs

• They are one of the most secretive of all

• Some would call them controlling, jealous, destructive and sarcastic.

• Scorpios are very suspicious and intolerant and cruel or violent.

• As a friend, Scorpios are very loyal and helpful.

Sagittarius

Element: Fire

Ruling Planet: Jupiter

Symbol: The Archer/Centaur

Psychological Need: To explore and expand horizons

Best Quality: Loyalty

Key Traits: aspiration, love of freedom, expansion, exploration, idealism, luck, orthodox religion, philosophy, law, generosity, optimism, honesty

Downside: over-confidence, dogmatism, bluntness, exaggeration, fanaticism, sportiveness, gambling

Sagittarius is a Fire Sign. In the orthodox man the ruling planet is Jupiter with tendencies like ambitious desire and direction. The personality characteristics of this signs are as follows:

• This is the most free-spirited, easy-going, inquisitive and straightforward

• Sagittarians think deeply about the big picture

• Maintaining a fun, child-like quality throughout life

• They are the most optimistic of all the personalities of astrology signs, possessing idealistic philosophical feelings.

• This sign is a seeker of knowledge

• Sports are of great interest to a Sagittarian with abundant energy.

• A true Sagittarian has grace, beneficence, and is full of harmony and completion.

• This sign loves to travel and makes friends easily.

• They are hot-headed.

• They are eternal procrastinators

Capricorn

Element: Earth

Ruling Planet: Saturn

Symbol: The Goat/Sea Goat

Psychological Need: To find structure and social acknowledgment

Best Quality: Diplomacy

Key Traits: ambition, conservatism, conscientiousness, organization, position, honors, justice, caution, economy, authority,

Downside: pride, suspicion, selfishness, resentfulness, pessimism, unforgiving, deceitfulness, justice without mercy

Capricorns are an Earth Sign in which both the orthodox man and the disciple are ruled by the planet Saturn. The personality characteristics of this signs are as follows:

• They love power, respect and authority.

• Capricorns are cool, calm, self-disciplined and possess a powerful inner strength

• They are prudent, conservative, very practical and responsible.

• Capricorns approach finances with prudence, planning and discipline.

• Capricorns are the eternal opportunists

• Their general outlook is fairly rigid and unmoving.

• Many will consider this sign to be an egotistical, demanding and intolerant status seeker.

• They will provide stability, loyalty and security for life.

• They display a degree of pessimism.

Aquarius

Element: Air

Ruling Planet: Uranus/Saturn

Symbol: The Water-bearer

Psychological Need: To innovate, be original, and break forms

Best Quality: Altruism Zodiac Signs and Personality Characteristics Essay Paper

Key Traits: humanitarianism, independence, originality, progressiveness, cooperation, brotherhood, diplomacy, altruism

Downside: argumentative, impractical, emotionally-detached, dictatorship, stubborn or closed-minded, rebellious

This is an Air Sign ruled by Uranus and Saturn in the ordinary man, and Jupiter in the disciple. The personality characteristics of this signs are as follows:

• They are idealistic unconventional thinkers

• In fact some will think an Aquarian to be impersonal, too radical, rebellious, unrealistic and impractical

• They are progressive, unique, logical and ingenious.

• Aquarian is smart, quick, fun and a memorable person.

• Some may appear unsympathetic and cold fanatic.

• These personalities of astrology signs tends to stay free and self-reliant.

Pisces

Element: Water

Ruling Planet: Neptune/Jupiter

Symbol: The Fish

Psychological Need: To gain faith and belief in transcendence

Best Quality: Sympathy

Key Traits: compassion, universality, intuitiveness, inspiration, renunciation, sacrifice

Downside: worry, psychic negativity, introspection, lack of confidence, secretiveness, seclusion, procrastination, sorrow

Pisces is a Water Sign ruled by Neptune and Jupiter in the conventional man, and Pluto in the disciple. The personality characteristics of this signs are as follows:

• Pisces are patient, perceptive, spiritual, peace-loving and imaginative person

• Pisces like to influence others through their compassionate, charitable and imaginative natures, but they are often influenced and vulnerable.

• Are considerate and sensitive

• This is an artistic, creative and psychic sign with a keen imagination.

• They are easily influenced or impressionable.

• They have qualities of decisiveness, timidity, melancholies

• Pisces will be a deep caring individual

• The Piscean worker is personable, easygoing and charming

(Weaver, n.d.)

Every zodiac sign is allied with a planet which defines it in terms of personality traits and characteristics.

Planets

Through thousands of years of observation, two things have been noted:Zodiac Signs and Personality Characteristics Essay Paper

• Each planet represents an energetic part of our being, or a component of life (i.e. emotions, communication style, and love style).

• The position of each planet in the heavens indicates the style in which the planet’s component is manifested.

Natal astrology observes that the positions of the planets at the moment of your birth indicate the style in which each planet’s component is manifested in your life.

Greeks believed that the planets were gods or the living instruments of gods. This means that they were considered agents, in the same sense that human beings are considered agents: they could act and be acted upon in ways comprehensible to us, at least in principle. One aspect of the planets’ life and behavior we can observe and even predict: their motions and their positions relative to one another, to the zodiac, and the horizon.

The planets acquired their personas from the Greek gods whose manifestations they were. This is true in a primary way of the five, and in a secondary way of the two luminaries, for the Sun acquired some of the traits of Apollo and the Moon some of the traits of Artemis/ Diana. Primarily, though, the Sun carries the persona imputed to the Sun god — which is of course a tautology, indicating only that in the ancient world the Sun was divine. Likewise the Moon.

Each Greek God has his/her own personality which is reflected through the planets. The descriptions below describe how each planet is represented as well as the sign equivalent to it.

☉ The Sun

“I am”

Best quality: Rulership

Worst quality: Dictativeness

The Sun tells us of the actual core of a person, the inner self, of that which is of central concern. It also shows us the general vitality and the ability to assert oneself, it describes a general tone of being which colors everything else.

Sign equivalent: Leo

☽ The Moon

“I feel”

Best quality: Adaptability

Worst quality: Inconstancy

The Moon represents our feelings and emotions, the receptivity, imagination and basic feeling tone of a person. It also has an effect on the sense of rhythm, time and timing, it influences our adaptability to change, our mobility and versatility.

Sign equivalent: Cancer

☿ Mercury

“I think”

Best quality: Expression

Worst quality: Restlessness

Mercury represents reason, reasonableness (common sense), that which is rational. It stands for the spoken and written word, putting in order, weighing and evaluating, the process of learning and skills.Zodiac Signs and Personality Characteristics Essay Paper

Sign equivalents: Gemini and Virgo

♀ Venus

“I love”

Best quality: Affection

Worst quality: Pliancy (bending too easily, taking the easy way out)

Venus gives us a sense of beauty, the enjoyment of pleasure, aesthetic awareness, love of harmony, sociability, taking pleasure in relationships and eroticism.

Sign equivalents: Libra and Taurus

â™, Mars

“I act”

Best quality: Initiative

Worst quality: Harshness

Mars represents the energy and drive of a person, their courage, determination, and the freedom of spontaneous impulse. It also describes the readiness for action, the way one goes about doing things as well as simple aggression.

Sign equivalent: Aries

♃ Jupiter

“I grow”

Best quality: Benevolence (kindness)

Worst quality: Conceit

The search for individual meaning and purpose, optimism, hope and a sense of justice are represented by Jupiter. So also faith, a basic philosophy of life, the striving for spiritual growth and expansion.

Sign equivalent: Sagittarius

â™” Saturn

“I achieve”

Best quality: System and Organization

Worst quality: Selfishness

Saturn shows how we experience “reality”, where we meet with resistance and discover our limitations. It represents the conscience and moral conviction, the laws and rules which we choose to obey. It also tells us about our powers of endurance and the ability to concentrate, it lends qualities like earnestness, caution and reserve.

Sign equivalent: Capricorn

â™… Uranus

“I evolve”

Best quality: Originality

Worst quality: Rebellion

Uranus stands for intuition, it transmits sudden inspiration and lightning insights. An openness for all that is new, unknown and unusual. A sort of wrong-headed contrariness is also associated with this planet. It is said to be characteristic of astrology as such.

Sign equivalent: Aquarius

♆ Neptune

“I dream”

Best quality: Idealism

Worst quality: Vagueness

This planet gives us the supersensory, opens doors to mystical experience and the transcendental. On this level it is hard to discern where perception moves into deception, illusion and false appearances, and so Neptune is associated with all of these, with drugs and all kinds of pseudo-realities.

Sign equivalent: Pisces

♇ Pluto

“I empower”

Best quality: Transformation

Worst quality: Inversion (turning things upside down)

Pluto describes how we deal with power, personal and non-personal, be it through suffering the power of others or exercising it ourselves. It describes how we meet the demonic and magical, our regenerative powers and our capacity for radical change and rebirth: the cycles of dying and becoming.

Sign equivalent: Scorpio

(Greene, 1977 & Corrine, 2009)

The other categorization of the zodiac signs are the 4 elements: Fire, Earth, Air and Water. These are also regarded as the 4 basic principles of life. Each element is assigned to 3 Sun signs which is known as the triplicity.Zodiac Signs and Personality Characteristics Essay Paper

Elements

The “four elements” of astrological tradition refer to the vital forces (or energies) that make up the entire creation that is commonly perceived by human beings. The four elements in a birth chart reveal the ability to participate in certain realms of being and to tune in to specific fields of life experience.

The four elements—Fire, Earth, Air, and Water—each represent a basic kind of energy and consciousness that operates within everyone. Each person is consciously more attuned to some types of energy than others.

Fire

The fire signs are Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius. Fire signs respond to energy very quickly. They favor action. They are ready to go, take a risk, start a business, go on a trip, etc. They are confident, idealistic, intense, and approach life with zest and enthusiasm. Here is energy to conquer, lead, and travel physically and mentally. Aries must act, Leo must lead grandly, and Sagittarius explores unknown places and ideas.

Positive Traits: extroverted, energetic, enthusiastic, inspirational, visionary, high-spirited, simple and direct, physically active, dramatic, courageous, warm

Negative Traits: overly active to the point of burnout, restless, impatient, selfish, insensitive, willful, hasty, lacking in perspective, thoughtless, impulsive, reckless, extravagant, and wild.

Earth

The Earth signs are Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn. Earth signs are more cautious in their approach. They are more practical, realistic, and they need solid footing before going forward. Taurus will dig the heels in and really ponder things. Virgo will analyze. Capricorn will climb, but will do it with care, first needing a vision, a plan, an organized structure before starting the ascent. Earth signs are dependable, thorough and solid.

Earth signs seek to engage the physical world and master it through efficient organization. Earth signs seek economic security, respect, and prestige, and they work hard for it.

Positive Traits: practical, efficient, organized, realistic, patient, self-disciplined, hard-working, productive, enduring, persistent, dependable, stable, good common sense

Negative Traits: slow, stodgy, lacking in vision, unimaginative, petty, excessively conventional, narrow-minded, stubborn, resistant to change, hoarding, ultra conservative.

Air

The Air signs are Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius. Air signs approach energy mentally; they are thinkers. They are social, always ready for a new relationship or friendship. They love learning, but bore easily. Gemini has great intellectual curiosity, but too many personalities. Libra is partnership driven, but not in an emotional way. Aquarius is popular with friends and is unstoppable when it has a cause to champion. Air signs are into ideas and people. They are communicative; they must share information, interact with others, and influence society.

Positive Traits: articulate, objective, mentally clear, detached, capable of forethought, understanding, socially adept and adaptable, cooperative, relational

Negative Traits: unemotional, lacking in sympathy, impractical, disassociated from the body and the physical world, over-adaptive, abstracted, glib and facile, hyperactive  Zodiac Signs and Personality Characteristics Essay Paper

Water

The Water signs are Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces. Water signs respond to energy almost unconsciously. They are deeply emotional. Cancer is motivated to nurture and be nurtured. Scorpio has intense vision, never swaying, looking straight ahead with laser-like focus. Pisces is the trickiest to describe. Pisces energy is chameleon-like, absorbing its surroundings.

Positive Traits: deeply emotional, sympathetic, empathetic, nurturing, calm and peaceful, sensitive, compassionate, imaginative, intuitive, psychically aware

Negative Traits: emotionally insecure and unstable, shy, timid, lacking in confidence, oversensitive, easily influenced and manipulated, withdrawn, uncommunicative, vindictive and vengeful, takes everything personally, moody and depressed

Each individual born belong to a particular planet, element or zodiac signs might carry traits which makes them similar and different form each other. This research’s purpose is to explore the area of zodiac signs and how they might be linked with the personality traits of each individual.

Review of Literature

Astrology is a complex system that dates back to the third Millennium B.C. It is based on celestial observations and correlating events. Astrology helped lay the foundation for the development of astronomy. It has influenced belief systems and even entire cultures. The many components of astrology, such as signs, planets and aspects, are what make it a complex system. The many components are considered when forming accurate readings of astrological transitions and how they relate to each individual.

Anyone can gain greater personal understanding with astrology since it affects peoples’ lives just as the moon influences the tides. Astrology provides the tools that can help make the best and most informed decisions. It is like a map for the soul that provides individuals with insights into the future, and reveals the tendencies, quirks, and truth about human nature, relationships, career choices and the world at large. Astrology may be used as a guide for daily living, as well as for forecasting and predictions

The link between the zodiac signs and the personality characteristics has been explored numerous times resulting with either significant but mostly insignificant results, The following studies show the results of various researches made upon this topic

Another study by Hume and Goldstien (1977) on 196 college students investigate the hypothesis and that the personality can be predicted on the basis of an individual’s astrological chart. In the study, two separate, renowned personality tests were administered and the hypothesis could not be supported as the results showed the participants couldn’t accurately identify their astrological personality at a greater than chance level.

The two studies by Illingworth and Syme (1977) and Tyson (1977) found no correlation between sun sign and personality traits measured by the CPI, including the femininity index.

In his research, Dean (1983) conducted a test by the UK Sunday newspaper News of the World, a panel of four astrologers were able to guess the Sun signs of 8 out of 12 subjects (one for each sign) following one or two interviews lasting no more than five minutes each, vs 1 expected by chance. The test was repeated in 1981 and again the panel got 8 out of 12 right.

Gauquelin (1982) compiled personality profiles from biographies of 2000 sports figures, actors, scientists, and writers. Compared these profiles with personality traits associated with the sign of the sun, moon, and ascendant according to eight astrology texts. No correlation was found using either the sidereal or tropical zodiac.Zodiac Signs and Personality Characteristics Essay Paper

Pawlik and Buse’s (1984) study on 799 adult subjects consisted of a test is presented of the hypothesis that the relationship between astrological birth sign and personality differences in extraversion and neuroticism (as reported by Mayo, White and Eysenck) can be explained in terms of self-attribution of personality. An explanation of the Mayo-White-Eysenck results in terms of attribution theory was essentially verified

Dean (1985) tested whether astrology can predict E (extraversion) and N (emotionality) in ordinary people, the test was conducted over 1198 subjects mostly from the southern hemisphere, all of whom had known birth times. The results of 132 such tests, and a multiple discriminant analysis, showed that no factor performed consistently above chance level.

Dwyer (1987), in his research paper, used a sample of 175 mixed adults who completed a 36-item questionnaire addressed to likely Pluto meanings, namely intensification, exaggeration, social power, transformation, and suppression. The results were suggestive of no meaningful trend whatever, which does not deny that Pluto may have meanings other than those tested

According to the study by AinO (1992) the sign positions of the Sun, Mercury, Venus and Mars were compared between 5147 psychology students and 3232 engineering students. No result was significant.

AinO (1993) tested the claim that the Sun’s element at birth is related to the psychological functions in Carl Jung’s typology, specifically whether the Sun in a Fire sign is related to a dominant Intuition function, Earth to Sensing, Air to Thinking, and Water to Feeling. I was tested over 370 subjects (168 males, 202 females). When the 370 cases were divided into Intuition vs Sensing, or into Thinking vs Feeling, the relation with element was again non-significant

This study by Rooij (1994) replicated the study by Mayo, White and Eysenck that confirmed the astrological proposition that people born with the sun in a positive sign (Aries, Gemini, Leo, Libra, Sagittarius, Aquarius) are extraverted and those with the sun in a negative sign (Taurus, Cancer, Virgo, Scorpio, Capricorn, Pisces) are introverted.

A study by Wymen and Vyse (2008) explores the effect of horoscope on people’s personalities and indicates how investigation is made difficult by the Barnum Effect, a concept which refers to peoples’ inclination to allow their personalities to be summed up using indistinct, unclear and broad descriptions. In the case of an investigation into the effects of star songs on a person’s personality the Barnum Effect can have significant consequences as it increases ambiguity and undermines the attainment of empirical data.

Clarke, Gabriels & Barnes (2010) suggests that the astrological theories assume a link between an individual’s personality traits and the positions of the sun, moon, and planets in the zodiac at the moment of birth.) Scores on extroversion and emotionality were obtained from 190 first-year university students. Multiple t tests showed a significantly greater mean extroversion score for the group with both the sun and the moon in positive signs than for the group with both in negative signs. No other differences in means were significant. The findings generally did not support theories claiming that tendencies toward extroversion and emotionality are determined by astrological signs.

In his study, Steyn (2011) examined the relationship between astrological signs and personality traits in 65, 268 South African jobseekers (mean age = 24.8 years, females = 59%, Blacks = 98%). Contrastive analysis of personality traits by astrological signs yielded no significant differences.Zodiac Signs and Personality Characteristics Essay Paper

A research paper by Silverman & Whitmer indicated how the subjects might be aggressive, ambitious, creative, intuitive, and extroverted. As exact birth times were available for subjects, it was possible to determine their sun, moon, and ascending signs. The results showed that the astrological indicators of personality were not related to either self or friends’ descriptions of the subjects’ personalities Zodiac Signs and Personality Characteristics Essay Paper