In Greek mythology, Hermes gave Pandora a deceptive mind according to Hesiod’s account.
Hesiod describes Pandora as being assembled by several gods, each contributing a feature. Hephaestus shapes her from earth, while Athena gives her clothing and instruction in skilled work. Aphrodite grants beauty and desire, and Hermes gives her a shameless mind and a deceitful nature. Hermes also gives her speech, allowing her to communicate with others.
Modern summaries sometimes say that Hermes gave Pandora curiosity, but that is an interpretive shorthand rather than Hesiod’s exact wording. The ancient account emphasizes deception, persuasion, and a mind capable of misleading speech. The later idea that curiosity directly caused the jar to open became especially influential in European art and literature.
Pandora’s characterization consequently changed over time. Hesiod’s version reflects a strongly hostile view of her creation, while later writers have portrayed her as curious, innocent, blameworthy, or courageous. Hermes’s role is a useful reminder that the myth’s original list of divine gifts is more specific than many modern retellings suggest.