Astrology as Science
In the sixteenth century, which is where my heart seems to be drawn over and over again, astrology was a serious science. Perfectly orthodox Christians had horoscopes cast, as earnestly as you and I might have an MRI. Astrologers (and alchemists, but we’ll be getting to that in my next book) were taken very seriously, and often had considerably influence over the affairs of nations and princes.
I used astrological signs liberally in The Second Duchess, and they’re all quite real, in the sense that they’re based on the historical birth dates of the characters. Yes, Alfonso II d’Este really was a Scorpio (born November 22, 1533). Barbara of Austria really was a Taurus (born April 30, 1539). Lucrezia de’ Medici is a tiny bit more problematic, in that there is some confusion as to her actual birth date—some sources say June 7, 1545, and other sources say February 14, 1545. I chose the June date and made her a Gemini in the course of writing the book, although now, after the fact and after more research, I am leaning toward the February date—Lucrezia would fit just as well as an Aquarius.
That’s the thing. The signs just fit the personalities so well. Alfonso is a Scorpio down to the bone. Barbara is so perfectly a Taurus. It’s enough to make one believe.
A week or two ago I received an email from a reader, Victoria Jadick, who is herself a Taurus and who kindly gave me permission to quote from her reflections on how similar her own personality was to Barbara’s personality:
I recently finished your book about Barbara of Austria, The Second Duchess. I normally don’t like historical fiction placed in Italy. But this book was so beautiful. The detail of the decadence and luxury of the court of Ferrara was so entrancing. I also could not help but notice how similar Barbara and I are, not only because I am a Taurus, because of how proud, defiant, and so composed in stressful situations.
I love the fact that Victoria identified with Barbara so closely, and that it was partly because she and Barbara were actually Taurus sisters!
Seeing Things
You may find yourself seeing strange things from time to time here on my website and blog. We’re working on a lovely new theme but it will be a few days before it’s ready to go public. Stay tuned…
Returning with concupiscence
I had to share this link:
What are the most neglected words in the English langauge?
Scroll down about halfway to the post from Cathy, who came across the word “concupiscence” in The Second Duchess and wanted to learn more about it.
I love that word and I especially love readers who love words, too.
Twenty Questions
Rachel Walsh of All the World’s Our Page sent me twenty very interesting questions, and I tried to respond with twenty reasonably interesting answers. The results are here:
All the World’s Our Page: Twenty Questions with Elizabeth Loupas
Comment for a chance to win a copy of The Second Duchess!
Book Club Delight
Had my first by-telephone meeting with a book club last night. May I just say that the Booklovers’ Gourmet group in Massachusetts is smart, charming, and a lot of fun? I was nervous because I had never been a book club’s guest before, but it was perfectly delightful. Thanks to Debra for arranging our call!
The Second Duchess
Read the First Chapter
The Second Duchess is available on iBookstore!
