Napoléon III
approach to life and appearances

The following is a description of Napoléon's basic stance toward life, the way others see him, the way Napoléon III comes across, the face he shows to the world. In the page about motivation you will read about the inner Napoléon III - his real motivation, which describes the kind of person he is at heart and where his true priorities lie. Study this page and the next one and compare them - there may be significant differences between the two, in which case "the inner Napoléon III" may not shine through and others may be in for so a few surprises once they get to know Napoléon a little better. This page describes the disguise Bonaparte wears, his role in life, while the page about motivation talks about the real person beneath the disguise.

Cautious, prudent, and rather self-contained, he is a person who approaches life realistically and who is not inclined to take foolish chances or get carried away by the overly optimistic or idealistic schemes of starry-eyed dreamers. In fact, Napoléon III frequently has a jaundiced view of such things. He is rather worldly-wise at a fairly young age, even somewhat of a cynic. Often the world does not seem like a safe, friendly place to Bonaparte, and he tends to approach life in a guarded, conservative manner. He is generally calculated and careful, and is rarely spontaneous, fluid, open, and childlike.

He is pragmatic, shrewd, and an excellent strategist, carefully planning his moves for maximum effectiveness and advantage. He is willing to work long and persistently for what he wants and he often does things the hard way. Napoléon does not expect others to take care of him and sometimes refuses or simply does not seek any outside help. He is often very ambitious, but quietly so. There is nothing flamboyant or flashy about his approach. He is very responsible, conscientious, and concerned with his duties to others and how he comes across socially - his "rank" so to speak.

To others Napoléon III seems mature, serious, quiet, reflective, and emotionally detached. Napoléon dislikes sloppy sentimentality and will not openly display his feelings, especially the more tender ones. Bonaparte likes to always appear poised and in control; and he hates to show any weakness, vulnerability, or chinks in his armor.

Napoléon III respects tradition and the time-honored way of doing things, and he feels that there is much to be gained from studying history and also by learning from older, more experienced people. A wise mentor or father is often Bonaparte's guide in life, and he in turn develops a great deal of hard-earned wisdom, which he likes to impart to younger people.

Napoléon III has a stern, authoritarian, no-nonsense aspect to his personality. He expects much from himself and may not give himself enough leeway to experiment and make mistakes.

He also tends to be rather close-fisted, to save and conserve his money and resources rather than spending or enjoying them. Napoléon III spends money on things of quality and of lasting value, things which are good investments, but not frivolous, temporary pleasures. There is a bit of the ascetic in him. Napoléon exercises great self-discipline and self-control and he can "do without" very well. His tastes are generally understated and simple.

Though he may have other, more colorful and imaginative sides, the face Bonaparte shows the world is modest and rather conservative.

Bonaparte projects a feeling of broad-mindedness, generosity, and beneficence, a sense that he is someone others should listen to and treat with respect. Because Napoléon III generally makes such a favorable impression on people, many doors are open to him, and he may appear to be somewhat luckier than other people. This is primarily due to the confidence that Napoléon III emanates.

Napoléon has penetrating insight into people and a keen eye and ear for the hidden, unspoken, behind-the-scenes facets of life. He may seem intense and make other people a bit uncomfortable at times. There is also a sexual quality in Napoléon's manner which can be quite alluring, in a subtle way.

He is very sociable, has a harmonious disposition, and is able to have happy relationships with people in his environment. His eternal optimism brings Napoléon III the affinity of many people with whom he will have many joyful experiences.

Astrological factors in this Astro Profile section:

Capricorn Rising

Jupiter Sextile Asc.

Pluto Sextile Asc.

Asc. Conjunct Jupiter/MC