W102 Fundamentals II-Alternate Tools (Fall 21-22)

The course introduces students to the basics of cosmological symbolism and applications developed in Western cultures and in current use. Beyond planets, houses, signs and aspects, 102 introduces students to natal patterns and points that clarify chart interpretation, such as: configurations, essential dignities, house systems, harmonics and declination. As well, minor bodies and sensitive points including the Moon’s Nodes, add detail to natal interpretation.

Students are encouraged to critically consider the various techniques presented by discussing their strengths and weaknesses and considering any controversies surrounding them. Guided practice each week in “Live Chat” refines the process of spotting major life themes in the natal chart.

Weekly topics include:

  • Exploring our historical roots and the philosophical purposes for natal chart interpretation
  • Comparing house systems to select one for regular use and others that are more situation-specific, such as a client without a birth time, or from an extreme latitude
  • Knowing how the lunation phase suggests a psychological base for chart specifics and how the lunar nodes suggest habit patterns and what needs to be developed
  • Learning harmonics as the foundation of all aspects, including the minor aspects
  • Exploring major life themes through close aspect networks, aspect configurations, and declination
  • Personalizing interpretations with sensitive points such as: the nodes, the vertex, part of fortune, part of spirit, solstice points, decans and dwads
  • Clarifying chart interpretation with major asteroids and dwarf planets 
  • With guided practice, learning how to layer this information together to better identify major life themes in the natal chart

By the end of W102, students will know the important areas of practice and controversy in the course topics and will be able to understand the basis of many specialized interpretive techniques. Most lessons are “must-know” supplements to the basics; however, some lessons introduce less used topics as “good to know” to provide a broad range for students to learn independently beyond Kepler at conferences and through major astrological publications.

Students will be able to critically question and/or evaluate the rationale of authors and workshop or conference presenters on their methods for natal chart interpretation.