Final answer:
Callisto was turned into a bear and then became the constellation Ursa Major after her liaison with Zeus. This myth symbolizes the wrath of the gods, particularly Hera, and the ancient Greek practice of explaining celestial phenomena through mythology.
Step-by-step explanation:
After having an affair with Zeus, Callisto was turned into a bear, and later set amongst the stars as the constellation Ursa Major, also known as the Great Bear. This transformation was a result of Hera's jealousy, as she was known to punish Zeus's lovers. Greek myths often explained natural phenomena through tales of the gods, and many characters from these legends, like Callisto, can be found as constellations in the night sky.
The story of Callisto reflects the ancient Greek belief that the gods played an integral role in shaping the cosmos and were often part of moral tales warning against hubris or impiety. The constellations served not only as celestial guides but also as reminders of the gods' powers and the narratives that bound them to humanity.