In Greek mythology, Hermes gave Pandora the power of speech.
Hesiod’s account of Pandora’s creation lists contributions from multiple Olympian gods. Hermes, the messenger of the gods, supplied speech and also gave Pandora a character associated with deceit and persuasion. His role fits the myth’s emphasis on communication as both a social power and a potential danger.
Pandora’s story is often reduced to the moment when the container is opened, but the creation scene explains why she was a particularly effective instrument of Zeus’s punishment. She was beautiful, skilled, and able to communicate convincingly. These qualities made her arrival appear beneficial rather than threatening.
Hermes should not be confused with Hephaestus in this episode. Hephaestus is the divine craftsman who fashions Pandora, while Hermes contributes speech and related qualities after the physical figure has been made.