In Greek mythology, what kind of being was Epimetheus, Pandora’s husband?

The story behind the answer

In Greek mythology, Epimetheus, Pandora’s husband, was a Titan.

The Titans are an older generation of divine beings who preceded the Olympian gods in Greek mythology. Epimetheus belongs to this group and is usually identified as the son of Iapetus and Clymene or Asia, depending on the source. His brother Prometheus is the more famous Titan because of the fire-theft story.

Epimetheus’s name is commonly interpreted as “afterthought,” contrasting with Prometheus, whose name suggests forethought. This contrast shapes their mythic roles: Prometheus anticipates danger, while Epimetheus accepts Pandora despite the warning against receiving gifts from Zeus.

The word Titan is sometimes used loosely for any giant or powerful mythological figure. In this question it means a member of the divine generation that ruled before Zeus and the Olympians. Epimetheus is not an Olympian, giant, or centaur.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Oct. 2026

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