The influence of the stars

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

42889

Title

The influence of the stars

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Rosa Baughan's *The Influence of the Stars* is a Victorian-era compendium of old-world lore, blending astrology, chiromancy, and physiognomy. With an earnest, mystical tone, it appeals to readers fascinated by ancient wisdom, planetary influences on fate, and the interpretation of physical signs like hand lines and facial moles.

Summary up to 500 words

In *The Influence of the Stars*, Rosa Baughan presents a comprehensive defense of ancient mystical arts against modern skepticism, arguing that these disciplines are rooted in divine providence and natural law rather than mere superstition. The work is structured into three primary sections: Astrology, Chiromancy, and Physiognomy, supplemented by chapters on moles, the Zodiacal marks, and the Mystical Wheel of Pythagoras. Part I, Astrology, explores the profound influence of the seven classical planets—Jupiter, Saturn, the Sun, Mercury, Venus, Mars, and the Moon—along with the signs of the Zodiac on human character and destiny. Baughan cites ancient authorities like Ptolemy and Tycho Brahe to assert that the stars govern human belief and fate. She explains that while the science demands rigorous study and deductive judgment, its principles have ruled human affairs for millennia. The text details how planetary positions at birth, combined with the influences of parents, shape physical appearance, mental inclination, and future events. Baughan addresses accusations of fatalism by clarifying that stars act as second causes, necessitating human action unless one appeals to the First Cause. Part II, Chiromancy, details the interpretation of the palm. Baughan describes the significance of the principal lines: the Line of Life, which indicates longevity and health; the Line of Head, representing intellectual power; and the Line of Heart, reflecting emotional strength. She further explains the planetary mounts at the base of the fingers, which correspond to specific traits. For instance, the Mount of Jupiter signifies noble ambition and generosity, while the Mount of Saturn denotes prudence or, in excess, sadness and asceticism. The text also covers the Saturnian Line of Fate and various chance lines that predict accidents or specific life events. Part III, Physiognomy, teaches readers how to discern character from facial features, including the forehead, eyes, nose, and mouth. Baughan links these features to planetary signatures, noting that certain traits, such as an upturned nose, are associated with Venus. The book also introduces the 'Wheel of Pythagoras,' a numerical divination tool used to resolve questions about the past, present, or future. By combining numbers chosen by chance with the querent's name, the day of the week, and ruling planets, the wheel predicts outcomes based on fortunate or unfortunate sections. Baughan concludes by urging the modern age to reclaim the wisdom of the past, asserting that these arts offer a deeper understanding of nature's mysteries than contemporary realism allows.

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4.2/5

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Categories

• Astrology
• Palmistry
• Physiognomy