Mars, the red planet, is a symbol of war in many cultures. In astrology it stands for aggression and personal power. It is a force of destruction, but also construction - the ability to get things done.

Keywords
Here are the twelve Zodiac signs, and keywords for the character they give to Mars, i.e. your aggression and personal force:
    Aries   erupting
    Taurus   concrete
    Gemini   provocative
    Cancer   controlling
    Leo   demanding
    Virgo   tireless
    Libra   decisive
    Scorpio   upsetting
    Sagittarius   independent
    Capricorn   ambitious
    Aquarius   reluctant
    Pisces   frustrated


Mars and its traits. Woodcut by Hans Sebald Beham, from the 1530's.

Ruler
Mars rules over Aries, the fiery challenger, which means that it tends to be the most obvious and enforced in this sign. It exalts in Capricorn. It fits the best in cardinal signs, like the two mentioned, and prefers the elements fire and earth over air and particularly water. Therefore it is the most weakened and alienated in Pisces, and to a lesser extent in Aquarius. When Mars has a weakened position in the horoscope, it is very likely to cause some problems.


The love of Mars and Venus revealed by the other gods. Painting by Joachim Wtewael 1604.

Planet age
Each of the heavenly bodies represents a period in your life of about seven years. In the case of Mars it is the period of adult life where ambition and career are the most urgent, right after the solar period. That's approximately when you're 28 to 35 years old. The position of Mars in your horoscope reveals what that period of your life is like, generally speaking. It also tells you how you will succeed in your career, in reaching any far away goals of yours.


© Stefan Stenudd, 2008