Context: The sky had great significance for the Elizabethans. Unusual events in the heavens would be more noticeable without the modern-day light pollution which prevents us seeing so many stars clearly. Queen Elizabeth I took advice from astrologers as stars and planets were believed to influence not only the weather and tides of the Earth but also human behaviour. We still recognise this influence in our language: 'lunacy', for instance, refers to madness brought on by the moon. Medieval belief that all four elements of earth, air, fire and water were affected by the planets was linked to the categorisation of 'humours' governing human behaviour. 'Melancholy', connected to Earth, was cold and dry, black and depressive. The others were 'Sanguine', Air, hot, moist, red and cheerful; 'Choleric', Fire, hot, dry, yellow and quick-tempered; 'Phlegmatic', Water, cold, moist, white and passive or indifferent. | 
