Arachne

[Zipporah Schumaker]

A Greek maiden whose [weaving] ability was the marvel of the ancient world. When Athena heard about it she challenged Arachne to a contest. When the girls [tapestry] was the equal to the goddess, she became angry and tore [Arachnes] weaving to shreds. The girl became terrified of what Athena might do and hanged herself. Athena became regretful of her actions and turned Arachne into a spider, so that she might weave all that she wished.

[Julian]

A woman of Colophon in Lydia, a skillful weaver who challenged Athena to a contest. Athena destroyed Arachnes work and Arachne tried to hang herself, but Athena changed her into a spider.