A Brief History of Ancient Astrology

Roger Beck9781405110747, 1-4051-1074-0, 1-4051-1087-2, 9781405110877

A Brief History of Ancient Astrology explores the theory and practice of astrology from Babylon to Ancient Greece and Rome and its cultural and political impact on ancient societies. Discusses the union between early astrology and astronomy, in contrast to the modern dichotomy between science and superstition. Explains the ancient understanding of the zodiac and its twelve signs, the seven planets, and the fixed circle of ‘places’ against which the signs and planets revolve. Demonstrates how to construct and interpret a horoscope in the ancient manner, using original ancient horoscopes and handbooks. Considers the relevance of ancient astrology today.

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Table of contents :
Figures……Page 10
Preface……Page 12
1.Introduction. What WasAstrology in AncientGreece and Rome?……Page 15
2.Origins and Typesof Astrology. The Transferof Astrology from Babylon.The Pseudo-Historyof Astrology:‘‘Alien Wisdom’’……Page 23
3.The Product: How toConstruct a SimpleHoroscope, Ancient Style……Page 34
4.Structure and Meaning inthe Horoscope, 1: TheAspects and the ‘‘Places’’……Page 52
5.Structure and Meaningin the Horoscope, 2: TheZodiac and its Signs……Page 64
6.Structure and Meaningin the Horoscope,3: The Planets……Page 84
7.Horoscopes and TheirInterpretation……Page 105
8.A Matter of Life and Death:‘‘Starters,’’ ‘‘Destroyers,’’and ‘‘Length of Life.’’Some SociopoliticalImplications of Astrology……Page 133
9.Conclusion: Why Botherwith Ancient Astrology inthe Twenty-First Century?……Page 146
Notes……Page 151
References……Page 164
Index……Page 169