In Greek mythology, Hermes gave Pandora her deceptive character.
In Hesiod’s account, Zeus instructs Hermes to give Pandora a deceptive or shameless nature and a persuasive voice. This contribution is part of the gods’ coordinated preparation of Pandora before she is sent to Epimetheus. Her qualities are therefore presented as deliberate elements of Zeus’s punishment, not as accidental flaws.
Hermes is an especially fitting figure for this role because Greek mythology associates him with communication, messages, boundaries, trade, and trickery. His gifts help explain Pandora’s power to persuade and her ability to appear attractive while carrying danger for humanity.
Different translations render the relevant Greek terms in slightly different ways, including “a shameless mind,” “a deceitful nature,” or “a lying tongue.” These variations describe the same general function in the story: Hermes contributes persuasive deception.