Taurus Zodiac Sign - Character traits

Taurus, the Bull, is the second sign in the Zodiac and represents those born between April 20 and May 20. In Greek myth the bull of the constellation is most often identified with the bull Zeus became in order to carry the Phoenician princess Europa across the sea to Crete.

Taurus in Mythology

Taurus comes from the story of Europa. She was the daughter of King Agenor of Phoenicia and Telephassa, though some said her father was Phoenix (Apollodorus, Library 3.1.1). Europa became the object of Zeus’ affections, and he appeared to her as a beautiful white bull as she played with the girls of Tyre. In Ovid’s telling, the bull was white as snow with small, gleaming horns and a peaceful face; Europa at first feared to touch him, then offered him flowers, and finally dared to sit on his back. He walked slowly into the shallows and then carried her out over the open sea (Ovid, Metamorphoses 2.836–875). Apollodorus says he took her through the sea to Crete, where Zeus lay with her, and she bore Minos, Sarpedon and Rhadamanthys; he adds that, according to Homer, Sarpedon was instead a son of Zeus and Laodamia (Apollodorus, Library 3.1.1). Neither source has Zeus turning into an eagle in Crete.

Two other bulls were connected to the constellation in antiquity. Hyginus says some thought it was Io, whom Zeus had turned into a heifer, placed among the stars to make amends (Astronomica 2.21). Apollodorus reports that Acusilaus identified the Cretan bull of Heracles’ seventh labour with the bull that carried Europa, though others said it was a bull sent up by Poseidon for Minos (Apollodorus, Library 2.5.7).

The Constellation of Taurus

Hyginus says the Bull was placed among the stars because he carried Europa safely to Crete, as Euripides says (Astronomica 2.21). A group of stars called the Hyades makes up Taurus’ face; Aratus describes them as scattered over the forehead of the Bull, and says the constellation’s head is unmistakable (Aratus, Phaenomena 167–178). Hyginus, quoting Pherecydes, calls the Hyades nurses of Dionysus (Astronomica 2.21). Another group of stars, the Pleiades, lies nearby; Aratus places them by the knee of Perseus, and says that in song they are seven sisters though only six can be seen (Aratus, Phaenomena 254–267). Hyginus gives the same count, seven Pleiades of whom no more than six can be seen, and notes that the early astronomers drew them separately from the Bull, though some called them the Bull’s tail (Astronomica 2.21). Today the Pleiades are counted as a bright open star cluster within Taurus.

Taurus in Astrology

Taurus Sign and Ruling Planet

According to Astrology Taurus is an Earth sign and is associated with the planet Venus. This planet represents love, beauty, and money. So it's no surprise that Taureans are often attracted to luxury items and enjoy the finer things in life.

Taurus Personality and Character traits

People who are born under the sign of Taurus are known for being loyal, reliable, and practical. They are also known for their stubbornness!

Taurus people are usually down to earth and level-headed. They like to stick to routine and don't like change very much. Taurus individuals do have a lot to offer. They are great friends, partners, and coworkers, with a strong sense of commitment and dedication.