Pope Benedict XV
approach to life and appearances

The following is a description of Pope Benedict XV's basic stance toward life, the way others see him, the way Pope Benedict XV comes across, the face he shows to the world. In the page about motivation you will read about the inner Pope Benedict XV - 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 Pope Benedict XV" may not shine through and others may be in for so a few surprises once they get to know Pope Benedict XV a little better. This page describes the disguise Giacomo della Chiesa 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, Pope Benedict XV 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 Giacomo della Chiesa, 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. Pope Benedict XV 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 Pope Benedict XV seems mature, serious, quiet, reflective, and emotionally detached. Pope Benedict XV dislikes sloppy sentimentality and will not openly display his feelings, especially the more tender ones. Giacomo della Chiesa likes to always appear poised and in control; and he hates to show any weakness, vulnerability, or chinks in his armor.

Pope Benedict XV 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 Giacomo della Chiesa's guide in life, and he in turn develops a great deal of hard-earned wisdom, which he likes to impart to younger people.

Pope Benedict XV 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. Pope Benedict XV 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. Pope Benedict XV 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 Giacomo della Chiesa shows the world is modest and rather conservative.

He is forceful and energetic and goes for what he wants quite aggressively. He is a doer and an achiever and has a positive "I can" attitude. He may run over people and stir up opposition and conflict because Pope Benedict XV tends to be very self-centered, or simply oblivious to the needs and intentions of others.

There is a certain intensity, charisma, or compelling attractiveness about Pope Benedict XV that may have little to do with his physical features. It is energy, a subtle sexuality that he emanates. Also, Giacomo della Chiesa tends to do everything wholeheartedly and with passion, which is quite fascinating to other people. His instincts and psychological perceptions about others are quite incisive.

Astrological factors in this Astro Profile section:

Capricorn Rising

Mars Conjunct Asc.

Pluto Trine Asc.