A ladder in a dream commonly reflects ambition and the steps required to reach it -- each rung a small, deliberate risk toward something higher. Climbing steadily can point to confidence in your progress, while a shaky or breaking ladder often names a fear that the risk isn't fully supported yet.
When Saturn shall be elevated above Venus, and in square of her, it makes the native shameless, and a perfect woman-hater. But if Venus be elevated above Saturn, he shall be a great friend unto women. - William Lilly (1602.-1681.)