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The story of Arachne and Minerva (Athena) is the focus of the well-known painting Las Hilanderas ( The Fable of Arachne or The Spinners) by Spanish artist Diego Velázquez (1599-1660). Dante Alighieri (1265-1321), the Italian poet and author, briefly mentions Arachne to describe the appearance of the fearsome monster Geryon in Inferno, the first part of his renowned The Divine Comedy.

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Arachne can be found in the Heroes of Olympus book series by author Rick Riordan, in a season 6 episode of the popular CW show Supernatural, in a season 4 episode of Hercules: The Legendary Journeys and even in the first issue of the much-loved Marvel Comic Book series.

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She is featured as a character in numerous fantasy books, TV series and movies.

In modern times, the story of Arachne has influenced many aspects of popular culture. Finally, Minerva finished off her tapestry by adding a border of olive tree branches – a symbol of peace and a tree that was sacred to her. Then, she went one step further and, in each corner of the tapestry, showed humans who had tested the will of the gods and been punished as a result. Minerva weaved the epic story of the Olympian gods and goddesses, portraying each one in a splendid light: majestic Jove ( Zeus), striking Neptune ( Poseidon) and victorious Minerva (Athena). Webs were woven in threads of Tyrian purple dye and of lighter, more delicate, imperceptibly merging shades. They moved their experienced arms, the labour lightened by pleasure. Arachne and Minerva get to work at the looms with a crowd excitedly watching them. As the Nymphs and women pay homage to Minerva, Arachne keeps a straight face, refusing to panic and withdraw from the challenge. Minerva takes the opportunity to drop her old hag disguise. Arachne asks why Minerva has not appeared to face her yet. Angered by this advice and not recognising it was Minerva she was talking to, Arachne told the old woman to leave her alone and stated that she was determined to face Minerva. Minerva disguised herself as an elderly woman and appeared at Arachne’s cottage, suggesting that she “yield the palm to Minerva, and humbly crave her forgiveness for boasting so rashly.” ( Metamorphoses, 6.32-33).

Egisto Sani (used with permission) (Copyright)

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