Sydney Astrology Course

The Cycle of the Zodiac & the Planetary Archetypes

The zodiac describes a cycle of transformation. Beginning with Aries, the first six signs of the zodiac reflect a process of differentiation from the greater whole, whereas the second half of the zodiac works towards the reunification with the Self.

Astrology is of particular interest to the psychologist... we find the psychological facts as it were in the constellations.... I admit that this is a very curious fact which throws a peculiar light on the structure of the human mind.    - Carl Jung

Drawing on Greco-Roman mythology, Jungian psychology and modern literature, Craig Jarman explores the various stages of the individuation process as symbolised by the zodiac as well the major planetary archetypes.

Course held in Sydney, Australia.

Phone 0414 588 885 or (02) 9817 2717 for more information.

Course Outline

#1: Aries & Libra

Aries is the volatile and independent sign of the zodiac while Libra offers balance and relationship.  To gain a deeper understanding of Aries this class will explore the symbolism of the Ram and the story of Jason and the Golden Fleece. For an understanding of Libra, the class will look at the relation between such concepts as beauty, justice and peace as well as how these relate to the Greek goddess Themis and her Roman equivalent Justia.

#2 Taurus & Scorpio

Taurus rules over the living of life whereas Scorpio is associated with death and regeneration. This class will look at the various faces of the bull through exploring the myth of Theseus and the Minotaur as well as the Zen Ox Herding pictures. Kazantzakis' Zorba the Greek will also be studied in relation to the psychology of Taurus. For Scorpio, the class will explore the themes of death and renewal as found in Alchemy as well as the concepts of the devil as both a destructive and redemptive force.

#3 Gemini & Sagittarius

Gemini delves into the duality of life while Sagittarius chases a unified vision. Both signs are often described as relatively carefree. This class, however, will explore the respective difficulties faced by Gemini and Sagittarius. For Gemini we will look at the myth of Castor and Pollux. For Sagittarius we will study the figure of the wise-centaur Chiron.

#4 Cancer & Capricorn

Cancer and Capricorn are concerned with the inner and the outer. For Cancer we will explore the psychology of the soul and the inner life. For Capricorn we will explore the concept of power, its use and abuse with particular reference to Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings.

#5 Leo & Aquarius

Where Leo is focused on the expression of one’s individuality, Aquarius is concerned with the evolution of the collective. Metaphorically speaking, Aquarius places an emphasis on the circle, while Leo is more interested in the centre. This class will explore the story of the Nemean Lion, the first labor of Heracles, as well the story of Ganymede, the beautiful youth who served the gods.

#6 Virgo & Pisces

Virgo and Pisces describe two modes of understanding. While Virgo is analytical, Pisces is imaginative. Similarly they represent opposite drives. Virgo aims to create order whereas Pisces will allow life to take its course. Where Virgo will set boundaries, Pisces aims to transcend individuality. This class will explore the opposing, yet complementary, fields of science and mysticism as well as the biblical story of Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary.

#7 Sun, Moon, Mercury

The Sun and the Moon represent the two luminaries of astrology. The Sun corresponds to the archetype of the divine child, hero and king. The development of this archetype will be explored through a study of various hero myths including that of King Arthur and The Lion King. The archetypal development of the Moon will also be explored through a study of the daughter, the mother and the witch figures. Finally Mercury, the messenger and trickster, will be studied in relationship to the working of one’s mind and perception.

#8 Venus, Mars, Nodes

Venus is the goddess of love, whereas as Mars is the god of War. Within the personality these two archetypes characterise what we find attractive as well as how we approach our object of desire. In this class Venus will be explored in relation to one’s beauty, charm and self-esteem. Mars will be explored in relation to one’s will and sexual energy. This class will also look at the north and south node, a key astrological axis relating to the individual’s purpose in life.

#9 Jupiter, Saturn, Chiron

Jupiter encourages growth and expansion, whereas Saturn will impose his limitations. One serves as the accelerator, the other as the brake. Both are necessary for one’s development. In traditional astrology Jupiter is thought of as the great benefic, whereas Saturn is the great malefic. This class will cover the positive and negative faces of both archetypes. The class will also explore the creation of consciousness in relation to the planetoid Chiron which equates to the archetype of the wounded-healer.

#10 Uranus, Neptune, Pluto

The three outer planets represent aspects of our character that typically remain undeveloped, namely the genius, the mystic and the healer. As such these planetary archetypes tend to express themselves unconsciously. This class will look at how the three outer planetary archetypes may be discovered and made conscious.