The twelve signs of the Zodiac represent twelve different characters, sort of like roles in a play. They can be described as archetypes, models into which human personality traits tend to group. Plato had theories about mental ideas - or forms - that were imprinted in the human mind before birth.
The psychoanalyst C. G. Jung picked up the idea and developed his own meaning to the word. He stated that there are fixed numbers of models or types that we all share without necessarily having been taught them. They're part of what he called our collective unconscious and influence how we look at reality and what we expect from it. He also meant that we should see these archetypes as inner clues as to how we can grow into self-realization.
The twelve signs of the Zodiac can be seen as a system of archetypes, making a complete world of sorts. We will be looking at the twelve signs and using each archetype to help manifest that particular energy in our own lives. Notice also that the shifting of the seasons as the sun travels through the Zodiac tells us a lot about the characteristics and energy of each signs. Now today on the 21st, the Winter Solstice, the sun moves into Capricorn, the sign corresponding to the archetype of the teacher.
Capricorn is the pragmatic earth sign ruled by Saturn. It is a cardinal sign which heralds in the season of winter. Capricorn is the archetype of worldly attainment and accomplishment through disciplined effort and organization. Through solitude, caution, reserve, and an authoritative approach to life, Capricorn offers wisdom and integrity to life.
Planets in Capricorn naturally radiate an aura of professional drive and respect. Capricorn is primarily interested in dealing with and making strides in reality. Its ambitious goal is to make a lasting mark on the world. Capricorn creates stability and structure as well as patriarchal wisdom and patience. This is the archetype of time, the medium of life. Capricorn and Saturn symbolize the experience of accomplishment through overcoming karmic residue through maturity, organization, and taking responsibility. Steady Capricorn inspires you to work hard at achieving your ambitions so that whatever you create will stand the test of time.
The house with Capricorn on the cusp is where you need to practice organization, express self-control, and act mature and responsible. The same goes for the house that contains Saturn, the ancient lord of time.
When your Capricorn energy is misdirected you become cynical, materialistic, and restrictive. Transfixed by the bottom line, Capricorn’s shadow emerges making you rigid, lonely, and pessimistic. Learn to overcome the shadow through expressing the opposite sign Cancer, gaining compassion, sensitivity, and imagination.