Providing not only conceptual analysis of the major sun signs, but also timelines and charts to aid the student's understanding of the Zodiac, this volume provides much needed historical background which relates the Zodiac to art, philosophy, science, and religion; to major personalities, and to historical material such as the Bible. Joe Hester

Director of Gifted Programs Catawba County School District

Newton, North Carolina

I am tremendously impressed with the prodigious amount of research [Snodgrass] undertook in this much-needed objective examination of the zodiac all the way from ancient times up to Nancy Reagan....[The author] presented these facts in a highly readable format... her easy style made it a most agreeable experience....[This] examination of each of the 12 signs in historical, artistic, literary, sociological, and religious perspective was nothing short of astonishing....[A]nyone working in the areas of the history of ancient (and modern) divination would find this extraordinary work immensely helpful. Robert E. Bell

author of Women as Classical Mythology

Mary Ellen Snodgrass has an extraordinary range and grasp in this work, moving easily among classical references in astronomy, astrology, mythology, art, literature, science, and history. Her discussion of zodiacal lore around the world is extensive and learned, but remains accessible enough for the serious student; and her profiles of the 12 signs go immeasurably beyond the cliches. Throughout the book, Snodgrass maintains a scholarly distance with both insight and wit. Michael Spooner

Director, Utah State University Press)

A unique reference guide to the influence of the 12 zodiacal signs onhistory, mythology, religion, psychology, literature and language, art, advertising, and commercial products.

Provides historical background relating the Zodiac to art, philosophy, science, and religion, drawing on sources from the Bible to Nancy Reagan. Each sign is explicated in a separate chapter discussing its origin and importance in diverse cultures, covering literary, religious, and psychological interpretations. Includes chapters on the historical foundation of astrology, a history from the first through the 20th centuries, and the zodiac in the arts and sciences. For general readers and students of astrology.
Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Traditionally considered superstition, astrology has nevertheless has an impact on the human experience since ancient times.... This objective, thorough presentation of the cultural implications of astrology is an excellent addition to available histories and is recommended for the practitioner, researcher, and informed reader. For libraries in search of a good ready reference on the history of astrology.Library Journal

The zodiacal signs impact art, advertising, literature, history, mythology, psychology, health, and language with their evocative imagery, symbols and scientific and religious lore. This fact-filled reference guide pulls together applications of the zodiacal signs in those fields and others. Each sign is explicated in a separate chapter which discusses its origin and importance in diverse cultures, including its history, artistic applications, traditions, literary and religious interpretations, psychological significance, and application to notable historical and contemporary figures. An organized overview with cross-references and indexing allows the zodiac to be studied from numerous points of view. Artistic representations of each of the 12 houses accompany the text.

Includes bibliographical references (p. [225]-232) and index.

MARY ELLEN SNODGRASS is an award-winning author of reference works and English and Latin textbooks.

Preface

Introduction

The Zodiac

The Historical Foundation of Astrology

The Zodiac from the First to the Twentieth Century

The Zodiac in the Arts and Sciences

Aries

Taurus

Gemini

Cancer

Leo

Virgo

Libra

Scorpio

Sagittarius

Capricorn

Aquarius

Pisces

Appendix I: A Time Line of Developments in Zodiacal Study

Appendix II: A Comparative Chart of Elements of the Constellations

Appendix III: Geographical Areas Linked with Sun Signs

Appendix IV: Planetary Correspondences

Appendix V: Zodiacal Pathology

Bibliography

Index