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. We officially begin the season of autumn on September 22nd – the Autumn Equinox, when the Sun moves into Libra.
Libra is a cardinal air sign, ruled by Venus. As the other equinox sign, it also signifies a turning point in the year, the midpoint of the cycle. It's the mind set on principles and logic, and the will-power to stick to sound conclusions. This is the archetype of the Judge, who knows the law and the importance to respect it or chaos will emerge. This archetype symbolizes the creation of social harmony and the expression of justice and the image associated with Libra is the scales. It's the conviction that what has been concluded in theory also must rule practice, even if the latter has to bend and change to adapt. Libra is artistic and refined by nature, grace and charm in action. Planets in Libra gain diplomacy skills and can be very persuasive. They are gifted at interacting with other forces within the chart.
The house with Libra on the cusp is where you need to initiate relationships, create harmony, and express love and grace. The same goes for the house that contains Venus. It is in those realms of life experience that you can tactfully initiate others into the fine arts of peaceful coexistence and cooperative intimacy.
When your Libra energy is misdirected it becomes incapable of making decisions and tends to act conceited or vain. Dark Libra seeks relationships merely for personal gain and can be deceitful, wavering and quite superficial. Lost in false sophistication, the shadow of Libra emerges making you distracted, passive-aggressive and approval-seeking. This unbalanced side of Libra is self-indulgent, attached to luxury, and overly flirtatious. Learn to overcome the shadow through expressing the opposite sign Aries, gaining courage, decisiveness, and strong willpower.