Unlocking The Archetype - Part 1

What is The Archetype? First, I want to clarify it’s not AN archetype, or the behavioral patterns of specific signs, although that definitely comes into play. The Archetype I refer to here is the 360 degree chart denoting the procession of the signs and houses beginning at 0 degrees Aries. It is the IDEAL that we should compare individual charts against.

Why should we use it? For those new to astrology, it’s a good tool to orient yourself and remember important concepts and connections. For the advanced student, it points the way to deeper esoteric meaning.

The Archetype with House Numbers

Let’s start with the makeup of the Archetype and how it can help you visualize the integration of basic chart elements.

If we start with the concepts of Polarity, Triplicity and Quadruplicity, we see the signs alternate between Masculine signs (odd numbers) and Feminine signs (even numbers), the trines among signs of the same element, and squares among signs of the same quadruplicity (Cardinal, Fixed, and Mutable).

• Signs of the same polarity are not of the same element but in a sextile aspect, meaning they are “friendly” with each other. They work well together but may require a little more effort to align their goals, like Sagittarius and Aquarius. The sextile aspect is related to the nature of Venus, so think of the need for cooperation and relationship-building.

• Signs of the same element are in trine to each other and there’s an innate understanding of each other’s motivation. That is why trines in astrology denote harmony and an easy flow of energy, like Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn. The trine is the nature of Jupiter, so think of big, expansive energy and a jovial demeanor.

• Signs of the same quadruplicity are either in opposition or square to each other. This creates tension but also energy and motivation. It requires more work to use these energies effectively. The square occurs between two signs that are the same Quadruplicity but different polarities and elements, like Leo and Scorpio. Squares are the nature of Mars, so think of them as providing a push of energy and motivation to achieve a shared goal. The opposition brings together two signs of the same polarity but different triplicity and quadruplicity, like Aries and Libra. Oppositions are the nature of Saturn, so their goals are at odds with each other. This can either create tension or indifference. Look at which signs or planets create trines and sextiles to both signs when looking for a solution. For example, the Aries-Libra opposition could be helped by a planet in Gemini/communication or Leo/organization and cheerfulness.

You may have noticed above that the “easier” aspects are related to the Benefics, Venus and Jupiter; while the “hard” aspects are related to Mars and Saturn, the Malefics. That’s not a coincidence.

Part 2 will cover how to use The Archetype as an example of ideal of human behavior.