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. The Sun now leaves behind the intense probing world of Scorpio and enters adventurous and bold Sagittarius.
Sagittarius is the mutable sign in the fire element trilogy and is ruled by expansive Jupiter. It is the archetype of exploration, inspiration, and the scholarly pursuit of laws and principles. Through a broad-minded quest for truth, Sagittarius brings vision into the world. Planets in Sagittarius are capable of vast and enthusiastic thought concerning the nature of life and the universe. Sagittarius sees the grand scale and attempts to impart universal principles and perspectives to others. The Sagittarius archetype’s straightforward approach to life and adventurous idealism provides the impetus in people to travel, mentally and physically. Open-minded Sagittarius inspires you to seek your essence, penetrate consciousness, and reflect vitality. It is the sign of the High Priest/Priestess and the teacher, imparting wisdom to mankind.
The house with Sagittarius on the cusp is where you need to explore, seek truth, travel, and philosophize. The same goes for the house that contains Jupiter. It is in those realms of life experience that you can point the way to authentic spirituality through your example.
When your Sagittarian energy is misdirected you don the proverbial rose-colored glasses and create addictive delusions to make yourself believe that you can take on more than you can handle. Overconfidence and extravagance is often a problem that can cause some angst. Lost in propaganda and false teachings, the shadow of Sagittarius emerges to judge, exaggerate, and dive headfirst into zealousness. Sagittarian folks are known for sticking their foot in their mouth and acting dogmatic about cherished belief systems. The key word “idealistic” appears on both the light and dark sides of Sagittarius. There is a dramatic difference between being faithful and confident and acting like God is guiding your vessel of self-righteous indignation.