World Astrology: The Astrologer's Quest to Understand the Human Character

What makes lovers and presidents consult astrologers? Why do those from Mars and those from Venus check each other's birth charts? Why do people in the Age of Aquarius consider the prophecies of Nostradamus? Why do millions of people look at their horoscopes every day? To answer all these questions and more, Peter Marshall sets off on a worldwide quest to the countries where astrology has been practised for thousands of years. Journeying up the great river of astrology, he encounters practising astrologers and explores astrology's different tributaries, backwaters and fountainheads. On the way, he reveals its fundamental beliefs and clarifies the main techniques of what often appears to be highly mysterious and complicated science. Delving into different levels of meaning - the allegorical and the symbolic, the mythical and the mystical - Peter opens the gates of heaven and unveils the secrets of the stars. At first somewhat sceptical, Marshall becomes persuaded by his research and travels that astrology not only contains the psychology of antiquity but also offers profoundly modern insights into the working of the mind and imagination. Astrology conveys important truths about the human character and the course of history and, he argues, can help us find our true place and purpose within the universe. In this enthralling and exciting quest, Marshall explores the labyrinthine paths of this ancient mystery, making a new international case for astrology which is at once balanced and controversial, enriching and compelling. This is the definitive study of this most misunderstood of sciences.