The Spinners: role reversal

I don't know of many representations of gods/goddesses, where they appear so much more humble than their human counterpart.  But in "The Spinners", that is exactly the case.  If looking at the painting with just a simple glance, there appears to be nothing strange or confusing about it.  But, in both sections of the painting, Arachne seems to be more sure of herself (in other words, more cocky) while Minerva is appearing to be a hardworking woman that does not want to sit in the spotlight.

In the forefront of the painting, the scene is divided, with Minerva on the left and Arachne on the right.  Arachne is sitting under some form of light, facing away while the people.  The two women on her side are averting their gaze, as if intimidated by her or scared of her response.  On the other side of the painting, Minerva is sitting at a loom, with her face visible.  Unlike Arachne, she is having a conversation with one of the other spinners.  One of the most telling things about this, to me, is that the Minerva is looking up at the other woman.  Usually the person that is of higher stature is never lower than someone of a lower class... that speaks volumes about the position that Minerva is placing herself in.

This is also shown in the background of the picture.  Arachne is standing in the middle of the room, with her hands spread wide, as if she is expecting the praise of everyone around her.  Once again, she is drenched by the light of the room, making her the focal point.  Minerva stands back, almost in the shadows, while just looking on at the scene unfold.  In order to find her in the back room, you have to be looking for something, which further shows that she is not forcing herself into the center, taking her position as a goddess as the devine right to be praised (even though that is how she felt).

I really like that this painting is a paradox of the role of gods/goddesses and humans.  The focus, and praise, that usually belongs to a god is given to a human.  And Minerva willingly allows herself to seen as a lesser character.