As most here are aware, what we call the Sabian Symbols came into existence in 1925 through the combined efforts of March Edmund Jones and Ms. Elsie Wheeler. Among the Sabian Symbols that they bequeathed to us are three obvious and intended references to the contemporary literature of the day. They are as follows:
The first is a reference to the slave girl Topsy, a character in Harriet Beecher Stowe's classic novel, Uncle Tom's Cabin, published in 1852.
The second item is a reference to Marie Corelli's novel Ardath: The Story of a Dead Self, published in 1889.
The third item is a reference to the short story entitled The Great Stone Face by Nathaniel Hawthorne, published in 1850.
I have read all of the major works and many of the minor works on the Sabian Symbols but have yet to see any discussion of the reasons why references to specific works of literature and their characters are included among these symbols. I have a few ideas--and will share them at some point--but presently am anxious to know what others may think about this.
thoughtfully
sdh3
- Gemini 12: A Topsy saucily asserting herself
- Aquarius 30: The field of Ardath in bloom
- Pisces 30: The Great Stone Face
The first is a reference to the slave girl Topsy, a character in Harriet Beecher Stowe's classic novel, Uncle Tom's Cabin, published in 1852.
The second item is a reference to Marie Corelli's novel Ardath: The Story of a Dead Self, published in 1889.
The third item is a reference to the short story entitled The Great Stone Face by Nathaniel Hawthorne, published in 1850.
I have read all of the major works and many of the minor works on the Sabian Symbols but have yet to see any discussion of the reasons why references to specific works of literature and their characters are included among these symbols. I have a few ideas--and will share them at some point--but presently am anxious to know what others may think about this.
thoughtfully
sdh3