Meanwhile, Robert Wilkinson has a great article today with more information about the sign of Aries:

Aries, when freed of the traps of impulsive behavior, egocentric judgments, being too quick to anger and too quick to bail when they lose interest in something, show their world a dynamic self-reliance and pioneering vision that leads the way for others without concern over whether others follow or not. Aries is highly self-sufficient, quick to bring their total focus to situations, and loathes dishonesty and betrayal. Aries’ initiative comes forth naturally, and instinctively embraces whatever is new and fresh. In fact, in our charts Aries shows us the way to be first in the areas of life it influences. When Aries’ tremendous energy learns to slow down, consider other options, and not be so quick to take offense, this sign offers others a refreshing honesty and directness. Aries energies show all how to be themselves, taking the lead in the affairs of life without excessive equivocation or extraneous judgments interfering with their ability to act.

Aries is the unadulterated expression of Mars, which represents the will of the individual self, the Hero archetype. Robert’s article gives examples of historical Ariens that have left their mark on the world they left; it is also fascinating to look to legend and myth for the Aries archetype (courtesy of Liz Greene’s excellent work on the subject). On the positive side we have the story of Robin Hood – he operates outside of the law, just as Aries has to find his/her own way. But he’s not a dark outlaw, he has a band of “merry men” – he finds life exciting and noble and he plays well the role of Hero. He gets to rescue maidens in distress, another favorite pastime of Aries men.

On the other side we have the myth of Jason and the golden fleece (from the Ram, the symbol for Aries). Jason, the classic Aries figure, is fascinated by the fact that the fleece cannot be found (Aries loves a challenge). Exhibiting the courage of Aries, he faces repeated dangers until he is finally able to capture the fleece. At that point, however, he begins to exhibit the more negative traits of Aries: he tries to reject Medea, who has helped him capture the fleece, in favor of a younger princess. His success goes to his head and he becomes arrogant and deceitful.

Both of these stories have one thing in common: the need for a goal, a quest, a role in which to play the Hero without arrogance and conceit. Then we truly do see in Aries that Hero of the old legends.