Mythic Monday: Scorpio by Flossie Benton Rogers

Scorpio Hevelius
By Johannes Hevelius [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
When we think of Scorpio, the venomous scorpion most readily comes to mind. In astrology older than Greek, however, the portion of the zodiac attributed to Scorpio was symbolized by the snake or serpent. To the Egyptians and to the Chaldeans of the region of Mesopotamia, Scorpio as serpent represented renewal and immortality. What does a snake do when he outgrows his skin? He sheds it, growing new skin and projecting the concept that life is mysterious and everlasting. The idea of the serpent as eternal life is found in many ancient cultures.

In Greek mythology, the image of Scorpio as scorpion centers on the renowned hunter Orion. With his great skill, Orion had few competitors. Only the huntress Artemis was as great as or greater than he, and that goddess was quite fond of him. She overlooked his boastfulness and the trait Greek heroes tend to have all too often—hubris. Her twin brother Apollo, however, took offense at Orion’s boasting and sent a gigantic scorpion to kill him. It worked, of course, but that was not the end. Zeus, in one of his magnanimous moods, set both Orion and the scorpion in the night sky to be forever immortalized among the stars.

The glyph for Scorpio depicts the scorpion and resembles the capital letter M.

Those born with sun in Scorpio or Scorpio somehow prominent in the horoscope are deep feeling people with a more than a touch of mystery about them. Descriptions such as inscrutable and impenetrable are often used regarding their nature. They tend to be serious and look askance at people with more happy go lucky or frivolous tendencies. They are independent and detest anyone trying to control their thoughts or behavior. They exhibit suspicious attitudes more often than not, thus protecting themselves against manipulation and vulnerability. Scorpios are stubborn, curious, ambitious, and unlikely to give up on something they want. When they lose or fail, they just regroup and go about the matter in a different way. They always have something up their sleeve, but you are unlikely to know exactly what it is. Negative qualities attributed to them include moodiness and a penchant to seek revenge for real or perceived wrongs. Scorpios are charismatic, and their eyes draw you in. One of the best descriptors for Scorpio is inexorably fascinating.

Cheers & Happy Reading!
Flossie Benton Rogers, Conjuring the Magic with Paranormal Fantasy Romance

By Flossie Benton Rogers

Paranormal romance author who loves to shake the edges of reality.

7 comments

  1. Hmm, I think I must have a little bit of Scorpio tendencies in me. I think I’d also get along with someone who exhibits the characteristics mentioned above, but I can see where a Scorpio could easily rub someone the wrong way.

    I also have to mention that Orion, so visible in the night sky, is probably my favorite constellation. I do love stargazing!

  2. I love the myths! This one so perfect as my next title is Scorpio. I’ve read what you wrote here in my research. My hubby has none of the qualities of the sign to the point I’m doubting his birthday!

  3. Very interesting info about this zodiac sign. I love the approach with all ancient meanings and origins. As usual a great post. Thanks for sharing!

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