By Story Star correspondent Jane Haynes

Virgo is the 6th sign of the Zodiac, its cycle running from 23rd August to 22nd September, preceded by Leo and followed by Libra. The sign falls under the category of the mutable star signs, along with Gemini, Sagittarius and Pisces, which traditionally indicates that anyone born under these signs is typically understanding, analysing and an extrovert.

The Virgo symbol is known as the ‘Virgin maiden’, consisting of the letter ‘M’ interlocked with a crossed-over loop, popularly said to represent the crossed legs of a young maiden. Greek mythology relating to the origin of Virgo identifies back to Astraea, the goddess of innocence, who, sickened by the wars of men, was the final celestial being to depart from Earth, placed among the stars by Zeus. Virgo’s ruling planet is Mercury.

As they are born under the mutable sign of Virgo, this traditionally dictates Virgos or Virgoans to have an affinity with changeability, with the positive attributes of the ability to let go of the past and adapt and prepare for future needs inherent under this sign.

As an earth sign, Virgos have an innate, natural balance which sees them focus on the practicality of the situation rather than approaching it in the dream-like manner of a sign like Pisces. While Virgos are traditionally and widely known for their ingenuity and sharp intellect, they also carry the requisite strength of will to follow through on their creative plans and ideas to see them to their fruition and completion.

Mercury, as a ruler, traditionally tends to identify with such strengths and positive traits as dexterity, communication and the healthy interchange of ideas and study. Indeed, Virgos are known for their talent and flair for the practical disciplines such as languages, statistics and figures, while they share some of the Piscean love and appreciation of literature, the arts, culture and history. An astute eye for detail in the Virgo is further aided by their memory for detail, which is of the highest calibre among all twelve signs of the Zodiac.

A Virgo’s shortcomings include fickleness and what is often viewed as an unhealthy restlessness. With such a keen sense of determination to see their ideas and schemes come to fruition, and perhaps most importantly, to a point of completion, they can often become restless with a particular project although it is their own dedication which remains their driving force.

The creative talent and focus of the Virgo is clear for all to see in some of the more popular public figures born under this earth sign. Famous Virgo Guy Ritchie is renowned for his innovative contributions to the film industry, while tennis player Andy Roddick always provides a fine display of that Virgo work ethic and dedication, as did famed inventor Henry Ford during his lifetime and career. In the literary world, Charles Dudley Warner represents the typical Virgoan author, while the creative streak is further displayed through playwright Eric Bentley and popular women’s writer Fay Weldon.