The Serpent

Snake, is a sign of misfortunes, which is gauged by the distance of the card to that of person, but always brings hypocrisy, betrayal and loss.
Original Instructions

Some hold this divisive card, the Serpent, as the game’s greater malefic, whereas others see her as a guardian figure. Neither is a view to which I subscribe.

Most older patterns seem to show either the European asp (Vipera aspis) or a Meadow Viper. These are venomous snakes but cannot strike or hurt a person unless close enough. Likewise, the Serpent card cannot deliver her poison unless you meddle with her. Remember all the traditional “negative associations” levelled at the card, such as betrayal, infer a closeness and personal relationship in the first instance.

For this reason, the Serpent is best seen as a warning card.

The card the Serpent faces is where she will strike. If it is a person-card, the danger will come from an individual; otherwise, it is the topic or area signified by that card. Often there is no active danger, but a warning that matters related to that card can go awry, and you are advised to proceed with caution.

Otherwise, the Serpent often causes matters to be delayed or occur in a roundabout way.

Of note, however, is the following combination:

Here, the Serpent’s venom is directed at the Mice. The pairing neutralises the Mice’s before they have purloined the seeker.

Otherwise, the Serpent keeps her belly to the ground and knows the terrain well. Her forked tongue is a classic metaphor of wisdom and being able to perceive information lost to others (see Die weiße Schlange). However, her proximity to the ground also symbolises that she will not fear to stoop so low.

The Serpent is also the Queen of Clubs (dame de trèfle), titled ‘Argine.’ That is thought to refer to either ‘Regina’ or Argos, the centre of the cult of Hera. Hera herself is a goddess associated with snakes (see Hercule and Tiresias). Regardless, the card can be read as a woman.

When read as a woman, the two well-known associations are the ex-partner and the mistress. Both are valid. I also use the card as the same-sex partner card for women.

However, the Queen can stand for any woman with whom there is a complex if not tricky connection. In discussion with students, I say that she is a woman with whom one exercises some caution but offers respect. You do not trifle with this Queen. Again, you will need to examine the cards around the Serpent for information.

Of note, if you suspect the Queen is up to no good, the card Queen of Clubs faces away from can be used to ascertain what she withholds from you.

The Serpent at a Glance

Essence: Venom..

Playing Card: Queen of Clubs.
Polarity: Negative.
Category: Warning Card. Person Card.
Keywords: Repercussion, Entanglements, Deviations, Toxic, Intelligence, Dame.

Pace: Steady.
Timing: Within two months, sometimes August.
Health: The intestines, especially the large bowel and down into the rectum. The Serpent can warn of toxins and other contagions.