Arachne and Pallas: Characters and Context

This section provides biographical information on the two main characters of the myth: Arachne and Pallas Athena.

Arachne's Biography:

• Lydian maiden, daughter of Idmon of Colophon
• Born in Hypaepae
• Mother of Closter
• Inventor of linen cloth and nets
• Associated with spiders (Latin: araneus)

Pallas Athena's Biography:

• Greek goddess of wisdom, strategy, warfare, protection, arts, crafts, and skilled labor
• Daughter of Zeus
• Known for her strength, craftiness, and tireless nature
• Namesake of Athens

Definition: Pallas Athena - One of the most important goddesses in Greek mythology, often referred to simply as Athena or Pallas.

Arachne the Weaver

This page likely depicts Arachne engaged in her craft of weaving, showcasing her exceptional skill that would eventually lead to her downfall.

Example: Arachne's weaving abilities were so renowned that even nymphs would gather to watch her work, as illustrated in this scene.

Pallas Appears as an Old Woman

In this part of the myth, Pallas Athena disguises herself as an elderly woman to approach and warn Arachne about the dangers of hubris.

Highlight: The goddess's disguise is a common motif in Greek mythology, often used to test mortals or approach them without revealing divine identity.

Pallas Reveals Her True Form

This scene depicts the moment when Pallas Athena sheds her disguise and reveals her true divine form to Arachne.

Quote: "ait formamque removit anilem Palladaque exhibuit" (She spoke and removed her elderly form, revealing Pallas)

This dramatic revelation sets the stage for the impending contest between the mortal and the goddess.

The Weaving Contest Begins

This page likely illustrates the commencement of the weaving competition between Arachne and Pallas Athena, a pivotal moment in the myth.

Highlight: The contest between a mortal and a god is a recurring theme in Greek mythology, often ending in tragedy for the mortal who dares to challenge divine supremacy.

Pallas' Tapestry

This section describes the tapestry woven by Pallas Athena during the contest:

• Depicts 13 gods seated with Jupiter (Zeus) at the center
• Includes four scenes of contests in the corners
• Bordered with peaceful olive branches

Quote: "bis sex caelestes medio Iove sedibus altis augusta gravitate sedent" (Twelve heavenly beings sit with Jupiter in the middle on high seats with august gravity)

Vocabulary: Pacalibus - Relating to peace, referring to the olive branches symbolizing peace in Athena's tapestry.

Arachne's Tapestry

Arachne's tapestry is described in contrast to Pallas Athena's:

• Depicts 21 scenes showing gods in various love affairs and transformations
• Includes the story of Europa and the bull
• Bordered with ivy and flowers

Quote: "Maeonis elusam designat imagine tauri Europam: verum taurum, freta vera putares" (The Maeonian girl depicts Europa deceived by the image of a bull: you would think the bull real, the sea real)

Highlight: Arachne's choice to depict the gods' misdeeds and transformations is a bold and ultimately fatal decision.

Pallas Strikes Arachne

This page likely illustrates Pallas Athena's violent reaction to Arachne's tapestry, striking her four times on the forehead.

Highlight: This act of violence by the goddess demonstrates the severe consequences of Arachne's hubris in challenging a deity and depicting their misdeeds.

Arachne's Transformation

This section depicts the climax of the myth:

• Arachne attempts to hang herself in despair
• Pallas Athena transforms her into a spider instead

Vocabulary: Metamorphose - To change form or nature completely, as Arachne does from human to spider.

Interpretation of the Myth

The myth of Arachne can be interpreted as a cautionary tale about pride and the consequences of challenging the gods. Key points include:

• Arachne's boastfulness and disrespect led to her punishment
• The story warns against arrogance and contempt for others
• Actions have consequences, especially when dealing with divine beings

Highlight: The Arachne mythos serves as a reminder of the importance of humility and respect in Greek mythology and culture.