Virgo Origins

In every culture, Virgo has always been represented by a woman, usually referred to as a "virgin." The meaning of that word has changed over the years, however; the ancients described it as the age span between puberty and marriage, as in "maiden" (this age span used to be quite short-women usually married around age 15). In any case, the virgin was the personification of justice and proper behavior, since she was "pure." Today, these qualities can still be seen in many Virgos-they seem to know the correct way to dress for a social function and can judge a person's character rather easily. And, Virgos carry their childhood innocence with them into adulthood, longer than any other sign.

Virgo is ruled by Mercury, along with Gemini- for this reason, many Virgos get along harmoniously with Geminis. And the Mercury influence can also be felt on Wednesday (the French mercredi again), the sign's favorite day.

Virgo is an earth sign, as you might expect, since it falls during the month in which most crops are harvested. In fact, the woman that symbolizes Virgo is usually depicted with a sheath, or ears of corn.