The Astrologer’s Universe

What can I say about ‘The Astrologer’s Universe’?  I suspect the same as any astrologer reading this work… welcome to my world!  What a lovely surprise! I wish I had access to such a resource when I first began my studies. Geoffrey Cornelius and Maggie Hyde have given us so much detail, perspective, and value within a relatively small volume. They have drawn together all the key foundational elements essential in developing sound astrological understanding, in a straight-forward, easy to understand, practical guide. Beautifully written and illustrated (Truly, I loved the illustrations!), the book is presented concisely and with clarity.

One of the things I love about exploring new books, regardless of the level, is that I invariably learn something new or consider a fresh perspective on an old topic. Initially, I thought the title of this one might be a bit grandiose, but it quickly became clear that within these pages is everything that the astrology student needs to know, and consider, as they embark upon their astrological journey. For example, what kind of astrologer you want to be might be an essential consideration in the initial stages of one’s education in this vast and complex field. Similarly, other topics included in ‘The Modern Debate’ (PART V), provide insight into standard objections from those who may be ill-informed or suspicious of the subject. This type of background offers ‘food for thought’ and, equipped with the facts, might give the novice an indication of what to expect along the way.

Well-structured and practically divided into five parts, we are provided with background on the history of astrology, the symbolism, how to interpret a horoscope, an introduction on types of astrology and various avenues of application. The history, while condensed, is packed with useful background from the Egyptians to Alan Leo. “The Astrology Primer” (PART II) offers the keys to the basic vocabulary of astrological language in a complete, concise, and uncluttered format that can be used as a resource to support one’s learning. In PART III, a practical step-by-step structure for horoscope analysis which draws together all the key pieces for interpretation and, with the examples provided, it could not be any clearer.

When it comes to learning I am a huge fan of practical tools. In this case, Cornelius and Hyde have really knocked it out of the park! ‘The Astrologer’s Universe’ was a joy to read. It is a resource I will recommend to anyone starting out in this field. And, it is well worth a read for any practicing astrologer, if only to freshen our perspective.

Jayne Logan  www.astrobookclub.com

 

“It is a plain fact that astrology is a pack of lies in a literal sense … each and every horoscope … is an attack on the probity of science.”

On the frontispiece of an invaluable primer about astrology by Geoffrey Cornelius and Maggie Hyde are listed the lame and sometimes mendacious brickbats thrown at the ancient art which are systemically picked apart in the pages following.

A revised and updated version of the 1995 Astrology for Beginners with inspired and illuminating new illustrations, The Astrologers Universe is a must-have for beginners. The history is laid out from Stonehenge 3000 BC onwards  – how did they calculate the 18.6 year eclipse cycles? – and on through the Egyptians and astronomically aligned pyramids, through Mesopotamia, Greece, Rome, into mediaeval times and on. Informative and handy as ammunition in arguments with nay-sayers.

Thereafter working with astrology is laid out lucidly in simple terms with planets, elements (Cardinal, Fixed, Mutable), modes (Fire, Earth, Air, Water) and aspects; with each planet and sign explained with key words. The major configurations are graphically illustrated and made understandable.

Thence onto the tricky synthesis when the separate parts of the jigsaw have to be pulled together into a broad pattern. The authors start with a thumbnail sketch of key words for the Sun (= essence), Moon (= habit and response) and Ascendant (= appearance and identity). The example given of Margaret Thatcher is to the point – a reactive Libra Sun, tenacious and vengeful Scorpio Ascendant, and a showy Leo Moon.

Then checking down a list of elements, planets on an angle, major aspects and configurations etc. For beginners it lays out a step by step process through the maze and morass of the 2500 pieces of information contained in a birth chart. It is daunting at the start of the learning process to manage the complexities of assigning priorities and getting to grips with the overall pattern – so this will provide clarity and clear away a good deal of the fog of panic.

There are other concise outlines covering horary, financial, world affairs and relocation astrology.

For anyone who is floundering in the foothills of astrology this short book will be a blessing.

Marjorie Orr

Although best-known for his thought-provoking book on the philosophy of astrology (especially as it is used in live consultation sessions) ‘The Moment of Astrology’, the late Geoffrey Cornelius also contributed to a few simpler books, one of which was ‘Astrology for Beginners’, which he co-authored with his long-time partner and astrological collaborator Maggie Hyde. As the title suggested, the original Icon Books edition of 1995 was designed as an introduction to astrology and its principles for complete beginners. It was profusely illustrated by an artist called Chris Webster with jocular comic-strip-styled sketches.

31 years later, the book has been relaunched by The Wessex Astrologer under a new title, ‘The Astrologer’s Universe’. The text itself has been selectively revised, updated, and corrected. Perhaps the most striking difference in this new edition, however, is the wholesale replacement of all the original cartoonish artwork with a completely new set of illustrations by a different artist, Andrea Aste, whose style is less comic-strip, more surrealism with excellent fine line work and detail. I get the feeling that he could be at home illustrating fairy tales. The result, in any case, is less in-your-face, less jokey, and subjectively somewhat more refined and graceful, than Webster’s art in the original edition – which is not to say it wasn’t good of its kind, or what the authors wanted at the time!

The text of the book remains very much a taster of astrology from multiple angles, including an introduction to the elements astrologers work with and bits and pieces of potted history touching on how astrology has developed in the light of both ancient and modern thought. A comprehensive history lesson it isn’t, but it is meant to whet the appetite of the idly curious who want to know a bit more of what this astrology lark is all about, without necessarily committing to believing in any of it or otherwise buying into its doctrine. However, some of those readers will find the content resonates with them enough to motivate them to take the next step of either buying a comprehensive learning book on astrology or attending a class or course. As such, ‘The Astrologer’s Universe’ could make for a thoughtful present for your average sceptical friend or relative, with unpredictable results. You just never know who will be motivated to study astrology after reading this book!