Barriers
and Boundaries
The Horoscope and the Defences of the Personality
Liz
Greene
This
first volume of the CPA Press Seminar Series explores the
fundamental issue of how we defend ourselves against conflict
and suffering through characteristic psychological mechanisms
reflected in the natal chart. Unless we understand our own
defence mechanisms, we can create enormous problems both for
ourselves and for those with whom we are involved; and unless
we understand the defence mechanisms of others we may fail
to comprehend their needs and feelings as well as their behaviour.
The pathological dimensions of defences and their creative
contribution to the personality are carefully examined, with
an emphasis on the value of defences and their function as
sustainers of psychological and physical life.
Part
One, The Psychology of Defences and Their Astrological
Significators, begins with an assessment of the classical
psychoanalytic delineation of defence mechanisms - oral, anal
and Oedipal - linking these with particular elements and their
characteristic behaviour patterns. Defences as expressed by
each zodiac sign are discussed, as well as the typical defence
systems of the planets and planetary aspects. The chart of
Richard Burton provides material for an exploration of special
defence patterns such as violence and alcohol addiction, and
example charts from the group generate further discussion
about the many ways in which we both protect and injure ourselves
in the face of what we experience as life's threatening force.
Part
Two, Saturn and Chiron as Defence Mechanisms, uses
these two complex planetary symbols to explore all the experiences
and feelings of denial and deprivation, wounding and damage,
which make us erect barriers against life and each other.
The characteristic defences of Saturn - avoidance, compensation,
projection, scapegoating, envy, contempt - are discussed,
as well as the positive and constructive function of Saturnian
defences if we can bring some consciousness to the operation
of our defence mechanisms. Chiron's meaning and expression
are then explored, including the application of myths about
Chiron to human behavioural and emotional patterns and the
complex issue of collective wounding. Example charts from
the group highlight specific configurations of both planets,
leading to a discussion of the creative ways in which we can
approach what may initially seem like our greatest failings.
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