Medieval Horoscope Workshop

Saturday, October 17th Workshop: 7pm-9/9:30pm Doors open at 6pm for mingling with beverages. Guided collaging officially begins at 7pm. Join Occidental College History Professor Margaret Gaida for a special evening exploring the art and science of the medieval horoscope. In this hands-on workshop, participants will learn the traditional techniques used to cast, draw, and interpret horoscopes centuries ago. Professor Gaida is an expert in the history of medieval Latin and Arabic astrology, astronomy, and optics. The evening will begin with a short, illustrated journey through the history of astrology, from its ancient Mesopotamian and Greco-Roman foundations through the Arabic and Latin Middle Ages and into the so-called “Scientific Revolution.” Then we’ll put these historical techniques into practice, constructing our own natal horoscopes by hand and interpreting the meanings of planetary placements with guidance from medieval astrological texts. Participants will leave with their own hand-drawn medieval horoscope—and a renewed sense of wonder for the science, art, and magic of the past. Learn more about Professor Gaida on the Occidental Collage website where she currently resides in the History Department.  * All materials provided.* * $75 per attendee.