Greek mythology was used by ancient Greeks to explain natural phenomena and the environment. Myths were closely connected to Greek religion and explained the origins of the gods and humanity, the afterlife, and how to live a good life. One example is the myth of Arachne, who was transformed into a spider by the goddess Athena after Arachne arrogantly challenged her to a weaving contest, in order to explain the creation of spiders.

1. Greek
Mythology

2. Definition
Greek mythology, as in other ancient
cultures, was used as a means to explain
the environment in which humankind lived,
the natural phenomena they witnessed
and the passing of time through the days,
months, and seasons.

3. Myths
Myths were also intricately connected to
religion in the Greek world and explained
the origin and lives of the gods, where
humanity had come from and where it was
going after death and gave advice on the
best way to lead a happy life.

4. The Telling of Myths
Broadly speaking, the imaginative Greeks created myths to explain
just about every element of the human condition. Arachne was
created to explain the creation of spiders.
Arachne was an arrogant girl from the Greek town of Kolophon in
Lydia who once dared challenge the goddess Athena to a contest
in weaving. Athena was furious at Arachne’s impiety and the
goddess transformed her into a spider.