Astrology: Signs and their stereotypes

Photo courtesy of Goop

Martha Marki and Shivani Mudhol

Zodiac signs are categorized into four elements: water, fire, earth and air. As time passes and we continue to discover our own identity, we often find ourselves immersed in the world of Zodiac signs and astrology. It can range from finding out more about our star signs, fortunes through tarot cards, or delving into the mythological creations of the world. Our birthdates determine our Zodiac signs and the traits that come with it. Read more to explore the different characteristics assigned to each zodiac and find out if you fit those that come with your sign.  

Water signs are often associated with intense emotions and dreamy turmoil, much like the ocean and the moon. Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces are the trio that fall under this element, represented by a crab, a scorpion and two fish respectively. Born from June 22 to July 22, Cancers have long been branded as crybabies, though they can have painfully sharp claws too. Scorpios are also known for having darker moods, often characterized as intimidating by the popular media, and are born from October 23 to November 21. Finally, Pisces, born February 19 to March 20, is the epitome of a daydreamer, known for zoning out of the real world and into their imaginations.

On the other hand, the fire signs, Aries, Leo and Sagittarius, tend to be much more hot-headed and in the present. Those born from March 21 to April 19 are Aries, and are categorized as exceedingly impulsive and loud, often doing things just for the sake of doing them. However, Leo is a different kind of fire, like a lion, set in its splendor. Leos, born from July 23 to August 22, are known for being dramatic, passionate and stubbornly resistant to change. Finally Sagittariuses, born from November 22 to December 21, are very social and easy to talk to and are full of energy and laughter.

Air signs, including Gemini, Libra and Aquarius, are known as intellectual and communicative. Often associated with being personable, these signs are also notably cooperative, intuitive and bright. Geminis, born from May 21 to June 20, are “quick-witted” and represented through the symbol of twins. They are associated with qualities such as eagerness to explore and learn whilst also easygoing and friendly. Meanwhile, Libras, born from September 23 to October 22, are represented by the symbols of weighing scales, which are known to represent Libra’s sense of balance. Libras are sociable, imaginative, bubbly and thrive in social situations. Meanwhile, Aquariases are determined, eccentric and intelligent. Born from January 10 to February 18, Aquariuses are interestingly represented by a water bearer, an immortal mythological woman born in the sun of Aquarius who symbolizes healing. 

Finally, we have the Earth signs, — Taurus, Virgo and Capricorn. Unlike the Air signs, Earth signs are known for being more logical and ironically, ‘down-to-earth.’ Known for their reliability and compassion, Tauruses, born April 20 to May 20, are represented by the bull, yet Tauruses have a calm and stable nature. The driven and self-reliant Virgos, born August 23 to September 22, are ambitious and tend to be workaholics. They are represented by a maiden, as its constellation is the virgin or a young woman. Capricorns, born December 22 to January 19, are more subdued, wise and mature. Their symbol is the sea-goat, made up of a creature that is half goat with a fish tail. 

Of course, each individual is unique, but zodiac signs can help us understand each other better. Keep in mind that these are merely assigned characteristics, not definitive determinations of who you are, so take it all with a grain of salt. However, there still may be aspects that fit your personality, so have fun with it.