Final answer:
Athena changed Arachne into a spider as a punishment for her hubris and disrespect toward the gods.
Step-by-step explanation:
Athena changed Arachne into a spider after the mortal woman, noted for her weaving skills, arrogantly challenged the goddess to a weaving contest. Although Arachne's tapestry was flawless, her hubris and the disrespect shown in her work angered Athena. In response, Athena transformed Arachne into a spider, condemning her to weave for eternity. This myth underscores themes of humility before the gods and the consequences of hubris in ancient Greek culture.