Astronomy
Taurus is a large and prominent constellation in the northern hemisphere's winter sky. It is one of the oldest known constellations, dating back to at least the Early Bronze Age when it marked the location of the Sun during the spring equinox and came to symbolize the bull in the mythologies of Ancient Babylon, Egypt, and Greece. At first magnitude, the red giant Aldebaran is the brightest star in the constellation. In the northwest part of Taurus is the supernova remnant Messier 1, which is more commonly known as the Crab Nebula. The variable star T Tauri (a star is classified as variable if its apparent magnitude as seen from Earth changes over time) is the prototype of a class of pre-main-sequence stars.

Astrology
Those personalities born between April 21st and May 20th are in the second sign of the zodiac. This fixed, earth sign is practical, possesses staying power, and has a certain tenacity and energy. Taurus also exhibit a possible reluctance to change course, even if they know this would be to their advantage. They are often known as a good listeners, appearing to have a relaxed attitude to other’s faults but are likely to have a very clear set of standards for themselves. They are likely to be creatures of habit and value the power of routines and systems. Traditionally, they are regarded as shrewd in matters of money and investment. In fact, Taurus may sometimes need to guard against being overly materialistic, as this trait can lead to greed and an unending quest for material security, long after it’s been achieved. Taurus personalities can be somewhat taciturn, choosing words smoothly and carefully for maximum effect. People often magnetize to the Taurus inner stability and soothing manner as they find such company compelling. That being said, many slow-to-anger Taurus can suddenly charge, bull-like, if deliberately provoked. Taurus can be at harmony with nature and also possess an intuitive understanding of how the natural world works. One of the most basic Taurus features is an appreciation of status symbols, especially inside the home or the home itself. Taurus tend to prefer living in rural areas and regard their home as the centerpiece of their existence. They like entertaining and sharing their collected luxuries with the select few they’ve allowed inside their territory.

Mythology
Taurus is identified with the bull, said to represent Zeus in the disguise he adopted for an extramarital affair that carried away Europa, daughter of King Agenor of Phoenicia. Europa liked to play on the beach with the other girls of Tyre. Zeus instructed his son Hermes to drive the king’s cattle from their pastures on the mountain slopes towards the shore where the girls were playing. Adopting the shape of a bull, Zeus mingled with the herd, awaiting his chance to abduct Europa. His hide was white as fresh snow and his horns shone like polished metal. Europa was entranced by this beautiful yet placid creature and adorned his horns with flowers. The bull lay on the golden sands and Europa ventured to sit on his back. At first, she feared nothing when the bull rose and began to paddle in the surf but she became alarmed when he began to swim strongly out to sea. Europa looked around in dismay at the receding shoreline and clung tightly to the bull’s horns as waves washed over the bull’s back, realizing that this was no ordinary bull. Eventually, the bull waded ashore at Crete, where Zeus revealed his true identity and seduced Europa and gave her presents that included a dog that later became the constellation Canis Major. The offspring of Zeus and Europa included Minos, King of Crete, who established the famous palace at Knossos where bull games were held.