ARACHNE (mortal weaver)
Figure of myth · Mythological weaver who was transformed into a spider
- Parents
- Idmon
- Siblings
- Phalanx
- Consorts
- Phalanx
- Children
- Closter
- In the sources
- 4 ancient passages
Arachne, daughter of the wool dyer Idmon of Colophon, was a skilled weaver from Lydia.1,2 She resided in the small town of Hypæpæ, living there despite her humble birth.1 Her weaving possessed such grace that nymphs abandoned their duties to watch her work, even while garments were being made.1 She softened fleeces with long drawings out, equalling mists in their fineness, and moved the smooth round spindle with her nimble thumb.1 Her renown for skill in working wool gave her a memorable name throughout the cities of Lydia.1
Arachne did not yield to Minerva in the praises of the art of working in wool.1 Observers believed her weaving technique was taught by Pallas.1 Pallas struck Arachne's forehead multiple times with a boxwood shuttle.2 In a fit of high spirit, Arachne attempted to hang herself in a halter.2 Pallas caught Arachne while she was hanging and declared she would remain suspended.2
Pallas sprinkled Arachne with the juice of a Hecatean herb.2 Her entire body shrank to a very small size.2 Her hair, nose, and ears fell off after being touched by the noxious drug.2 Her slender fingers became legs attached to her sides.2 Her belly expanded to occupy the rest of her body.2 Arachne was transformed into a spider that works at a web.2 She began producing thread from her body.2
Pallas pronounced a decree that Arachne's descendants would also be punished.2 Arachne is the mother of Closter.3 She is credited with inventing the creation of linen cloth and the making of nets.3
The codex facts behind this entry
Arachne was a skilled weaver from Lydia and the daughter of Idmon. Ovid Met. 6.1-145 +1
