In Greek mythology, Epimetheus accepted Pandora as his wife despite Prometheus’s warning. Epimetheus and Prometheus were brothers, and their contrasting names are often used to express opposite kinds of thought: Prometheus is associated with forethought, while Epimetheus is associated with afterthought.
According to Hesiod’s account, Prometheus warned Epimetheus not to accept gifts from Zeus. Epimetheus nevertheless received Pandora, who brought the sealed vessel with her. When Pandora opened it, troubles spread among humankind, establishing the myth’s explanation for why suffering exists in the world.
Epimetheus is sometimes confused with Prometheus because both appear in the same story and are Titans. They have different roles, however. Prometheus helps humanity and suffers punishment from Zeus, while Epimetheus receives Pandora and represents the consequences of acting without sufficient forethought.