The tragic tale of Arachne from Ovid's Metamorphosen chronicles the hubris of a mortal weaver who challenged the goddess Pallas Athena. This classic transformation narrative explores themes of pride, divine punishment, and the consequences of mortal defiance.
• The story centers on Arachne, a Lydian maiden renowned for her weaving skills
• Pallas Athena, disguised as an old woman, warns Arachne about challenging the gods
• A weaving contest ensues between the mortal and goddess
• Arachne's perfect but provocative tapestry leads to her transformation into a spider
• The tale serves as a cautionary message about hubris and divine authority