Scorpio is an astrological sign of the zodiac calendar. The sun transits this constellation from approximately October 24 to November 23. Its name is derived from the constellation Scorpius, which in Latin means Scorpio. The Greek myth associated with the sign actually involves Orion, a giant who was killed by a scorpion. According to Greek mythology, Orion was one of the most beautiful of all mortals. He was seductive, and a skillful hunter. Once he consumed alcohol, Orion was temporarily incapable of containing his violent and erotic impulses. This behavior was repeated when Orion met Artemis, the goddess and protector of the caste game. The two competed in a hunt and Orion, confident in his abilities, fell in love with the goddess and tried to possess her physically. These characteristics, in a more attenuated form, also connote the characteristics of those born under the sign of Scorpio. Scorpios are perceived as stubborn, and intractable but at the same time seductive and magnetic. Artemis, outraged by an assault against her vow of chastity, caused a huge scorpion to emerge from the earth to sting Orion to death. This part of the myth illustrates the sign’s vindictiveness, tenacity and steadfast commitment to the choices a Scorpio makes.

This correlation between Scorpio and Orion can also to be found in astronomy. In the heavens, the constellation Scorpius rises, while Orion sets. In mythology Zeus has placed them both in the stars in an eternal struggle, with the hunter taking on the appearance of a deadly arachnid. This zodiac sign is also connected to the middle of autumn, when the soil receives fallen leaves and uses them as fertilizer. This process signifys the rebirth of nature. In many countries, anniversaries and celebrations relating to the dead take place in November. This annual sequence of death and rebirth also serves as an analogy to a Scorpio’s ability to bounce back after every defeat. Famous people born under the sign of Scorpio include the intuitive French painter Claude Monet, the charming French actor Alain Delon, and the temperamental Queen Marie Antoinette of France.