The signs of the zodiac

In Western astrology the zodiac has 12 parts. Each is named after a constellation and corresponds to a different time of year. Astrologists believe that the movements of the planets influence what happens on Earth, and that people born under the different signs have certain characteristics.

Aries, the ram 21 March-19 April Creative, impatient, masculine, competitive, warrior-like. independent, outspoken Aries, the ram

Taurus, the bull20 April-20 May Determined, resourceful, materialistic, touchy, ruthless,entrepreneurial

Gemini, the twins 21 May-21 June Intellectual, shallow, inquisitive, selfish, talkative, witty, indecisive,irritable

Cancer, the crab 22 June-22 July Emotional, sympathetic, moody, sensitive, horme-loving, romantic, 23

Leo, the lionJuly-22 August loyal, tactless Generous, creative, broad-minded, patronising, bossy, extroverted, idealistic, arrogant

Virgo, the virgin 23 August-23 September Diligent, intelligent, modest, conservative, overcritical, pedantic,affectionate, methodical

Libra, the scales 24 September-23 October Charming, sociable, gullible, flirtatious, attractive, objective, artistic 24 October-22 November

Scorpio, the scorpion 23 November-21 December Optimistic, Forceful, passionate, jealous, obsessive, secretive, intense, outspoken, extreme, rebellious

Sagittarius, the archer Optimistic,honest, philosophical, careless, irresponsible, energetic, adventurous

Capricorn, the goat 22 December-20 January Disciplined, economical, patient, reserved, pessimistic, serious,organized, rational

Aquarius, the water bearer 21 January-19 February Inventive, friendly, independent, unpredictable, serious intelligent,eccentric

Pisces, the fishes 20 February-20 March

Imaginative, compassionate, vague, gentle, sensitive, creative,spiritual, easygoing