The elements, or “triplicities,” represent certain fundamental characteristics or temperaments.
Fire (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius): Passionate, dynamic, and temperamental. Fire signs are energetic, assertive, and have a courageous, competitive nature. They can also be impulsive and quick to anger.
Earth (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn): Grounded, practical, and stable. Earth signs are reliable, sensible, and often cautious. They appreciate material comforts and seek security.
Air (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius): Intellectual, communicative, and analytical. Air signs are social, love engaging in discussions, and can be independent and abstract thinkers. They might come off as detached or indecisive at times.
Water (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces): Emotional, intuitive, and deeply empathetic. Water signs are sensitive, and often have a strong understanding of others’ feelings. They are known for their emotional depth, but can sometimes be overwhelmed by their own emotions.
Cheatsheet: Elements
The Modalities
The modalities, or “quadruplicities,” represent the three basic modes of existence and reflect how each sign operates in the world.
Cardinal (Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn): Initiators. Cardinal signs are active, dynamic, and like to get things started. They’re often leaders and are not afraid to try something new. They can sometimes come off as bossy or domineering.
Fixed (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius): Maintainers. Fixed signs are reliable, determined, and have a great deal of perseverance. They tend to be resistant to change, preferring to keep things as they are. They can sometimes be seen as stubborn or inflexible.
Mutable (Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces): Adaptors. Mutable signs are flexible, versatile, and adaptable. They’re often the ones to bring about change or transition, and they can adjust to different situations with ease. They can sometimes come off as inconsistent or indecisive.
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