In Greek mythology, Epimetheus received Pandora as a bride. He was Prometheus’s brother and, unlike his more cautious sibling, accepted Zeus’s gift despite the warning not to accept gifts from the Olympian ruler.
The name Epimetheus is often interpreted as “afterthought” or “hindsight,” contrasting with Prometheus, whose name is associated with forethought. This contrast supports the myth’s characterization of the brothers: Prometheus anticipates danger, while Epimetheus recognizes consequences afterward.
Hesiod’s Works and Days says that Prometheus warned Epimetheus not to accept anything from Zeus. Epimetheus nevertheless took Pandora, who later opened the container and allowed evils to spread among humans.
Epimetheus also appears in other Greek myths as a Titan figure and the father of Pyrrha with Pandora. The Pandora story is therefore connected to a wider family of myths involving Titans, divine punishment, and the survival of humanity.