In this intriguing exploration of human relationship patterns, Clare Martin compares two hitherto unrelated approaches, to see what, if anything, they can offer each other. Astrology has a rich historical, philosophical, and cultural background. Its categories are archetypal and its language is mythic, symbolic and imaginative. Personality theory is an extension of the medical model pioneered by Freud. Based on extensive empirical research and clinical practice, its approach is secular, rational and causal, and its language is analytical. Astrology and personality theory share the recognition that all human experience takes place in the context of relationship, between subject and object, self and other, internal and external, at both conscious and unconscious levels. We find ourselves in a world of duality and polarity, caught between opposites. Stories and story-telling weave these two approaches together and expand our understanding of human nature, with all its paradoxes and complexities. Clare uses a variety of well-known stories with relationship themes at their core - from enduring myths, books and films - to breathe life into the paradoxical themes of each axis in the birth chart, and each character style in personality theory. The stories we are drawn to - or repelled by - tell us more about ourselves. Recognising the stories in our own birth charts generates increased insight, psychic integration, flexibility, and greater acceptance of ourselves and others. Suitable for anyone interested in the way we develop, and for astrologers of all levels or none at all.

About the Author
Clare Martin has an MA in Integrative Psychotherapy and has been a practising astrologer and teacher since 1990, working in London for the Faculty of Astrological Studies, of which she was President for nine years, and at the Centre for Psychological Astrology. Her personal approach to astrological interpretation is fundamentally Jungian, and evolved during a long period of studying with a variety of teachers in the western mystery traditions. Clare now lives in Dorset, where she continues her writing and consultancy work and is a tutor on the Mercury Internet School of Psychological Astrology. Mapping the Psyche is a three volume introduction to psychological astrology, based on the transcriptions of a course Clare taught for many years at the Centre for Psychological Astrology. Their titles are as follows: Volume 1: The Planets and the Signs of the Zodiac Volume 2: Planetary Aspects and the Houses of the Horoscope Volume 3: Kairos, the Astrology of Time These books are an ideal entry point into astrology's symbolic language, and are recommended for anyone with a serious interest in discovering how astrology can enhance self-understanding and promote psychic integration. Audience participation in these seminar style books ensures that psychological terms are fully explained and illustrated with personal examples. Clare draws from a variety of sources, including the perennial philosophy, alchemy and the kabbalah, demonstrating the inherently spiritual and magical dimensions of this approach to psychological astrology. Clare's latest book 'Alchemy: The Soul of Astrology', is proving a runaway hit. 25 years in the writing, this deceptively slim volume is innovative and ground-breaking. To give you more of an idea of the content, watch Clare's beautiful video on the subject over on our Youtube channel.


Book Information
ISBN 9781910531679
Author Clare Martin
Format Paperback
Page Count 168
Imprint Wessex Astrologer Ltd
Publisher Wessex Astrologer Ltd