Similarities:
-Arachne and Anansi are both characters that represent spider-like abilities or appearance. They have been shown in various ways but are always identified with the eight-legged animal.
-They are part of the traditional folklore of a culture, and therefore have inspired and influenced many other stories or tales throughout history.
-There is more than one version of their origins and stories, but they are always depicted as skillful, clever and defiant. Arachne defied the goddess Atena and Anansi was a prominent figure for slaves in Africa and the Caribbean.
Differences:
-Their origin is quite different: Arachne appears in the Greek mythology, while Anansi belongs to African and Caribbean folklore.
- Arachne was forced to be a spider. She was a Greek mortal who challenged the goddess Athena to a weaving contest. In the end, she was turned into a spider as a punishment. Anansi, on the other hand is a god-like creature with the ability to transform himself into a human or a spider whenever he wants to.
-Anansi is often seen as a hero who brings rain when there is fire, has unlimited stories and wisdom, and also inspires slaves. Arachne is seen as an example of what happens when mortals dare or disrespect gods.