In Greek mythology, Arachne was transformed into a spider after challenging Athena at weaving.
Arachne was a talented mortal weaver from Lydia. She became so proud of her skill that she claimed Athena, the goddess associated with weaving and crafts, could not surpass her. Athena disguised herself as an old woman and warned Arachne to respect the gods, but Arachne refused to withdraw her challenge.
In the contest, Athena wove a scene showing the power of the Olympians. Arachne’s tapestry depicted the gods’ deceptions and abuses in several myths. Although the workmanship was excellent, Athena was angered by the subject and destroyed the tapestry or struck Arachne, depending on the version.
Arachne then hanged herself. Athena changed her into a spider so that she and her descendants would continue weaving. The story explains the mythic origin of spiders and warns against hubris, the dangerous arrogance of mortals who challenge divine authority.