The Story of Arachne is an example of the fine line that exists between pride and arrogance. The author uses Athena, the goddess of war and wisdom, and Arachne, a simple mortal, to prove the importance of being humble. This is evident through the fact that a mere mortal challenged a goddess who believed herself to be superior. Secondly, Arachne was convinced that she was the best weaver, never showing modesty of her talent. Lastly, Arachne was taught not to defy a god and yet did not care to go against that.
Arachne had become so arrogant that she had the audacity to belittle Athena's talent. She even dared to compare it to her own, saying that hers was superior. This was discovered when the nymph said that her weaving was so excellent that it looked like Athena herself had taught Arachne. This was when Arachne challenged Athena.
Athena was too proud to be challenged by a human. She thought that no mortal could measure up to her status. The truth was that she truly felt threatened by Arachne. She did not want to step up to the challenge and therefore gave her the opportunity to back out of it.
Although it was admirable that Arachne challenged the authority and knowledge of the goddess, it was her overconfidence that led her to her undesired fate. By putting the talent of Athena under doubt, Arachne humiliated the goddess, who unto the other mortals signified wisdom and therefore reverence. She learned a lesson that she wasn't soon to forget. Therefore, learning never to cross the line that lies between a mortal and a God.
In conclusion the theme of this story was not to build your self up with confidence. Athena's pride caused her to humiliate herself in front of the mortals. At the same time, Arachne learned her lesson, and was condemned to a miserable life. This was a life in which she was able to weave endlessly and as fate would have it her descendants too.