In Greek mythology, Elpis was the entity that remained after Pandora’s container was opened. Elpis is commonly translated as “hope,” although the exact interpretation of her role has been debated.
Hesiod’s Works and Days says that destructive troubles escaped from the vessel, while Elpis remained inside beneath its lid. The text does not offer a long explanation of why hope was kept back, creating several later interpretations. Some readers see the story as saying that hope remains available to humans; others emphasize the ambiguity of hope in a world filled with suffering.
Elpis is not simply a modern abstract word in every artistic representation. Greek mythology personified concepts, and Elpis could be depicted as a young woman in ancient art.
The name should not be confused with Nike, the personification of victory, or Eris, the goddess associated with strife.