The Four Temperaments: A Rediscovery of the Ancient Way of Understanding Health and Character
These two books are based on the ancient Greek concept of the  four temperaments (sanguine, melancholic, phlegmatic, and  choleric). First-time author Maddron refers to them as  colors-orange, gold, green, and blue, respectively. Each has a  "ruling sign" (air, earth, water, and fire) and is typified by  physicality, high standards, intellectualism, and sensitivity  respectively. Chapters cover the characteristics of each  personality type as well as various combinations, and the author  includes an instrument for self-analysis. Particularly  intriguing is Maddron's discussion of how colors complement one  another in functional society and the importance of  understanding and appreciating the strengths and limitations of  each. Despite the risks inherent in oversimplifying people and  society, Maddron's treatment is nonetheless very thoughtful.  Rolfe's passionate examination of the role and function of the  four temperaments in life translates into half handbook, half  treatise. Like Maddron, Rolfe (The 7 Secrets of Successful  Parents) describes the traits and characteristics typical of  each humor and accounts for the blending of multiple humors.  Reasonable and encouraging in tone, the book emphasizes that  "the humors can only add to and not detract from your deepest  understanding as your life unfolds." Rolfe uses a holistic and  ambitious approach that sometimes meets with uneven results.  Discussing all the humors at once is often confusing, and the  nutritional suggestions feel incomplete. While neither author  tries to pigeonhole people, both present "a set of lenses for  looking at the world" and its inhabitants. Both are recommended;  Maddron's narrower scope results in a clear, entertaining read,  while Rolfe is for readers seeking a serious treatment.Copyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.