In Greek mythology, Zeus ordered Pandora to be made as punishment for humanity.
Hesiod connects Pandora’s creation with Prometheus’s theft of fire. After Prometheus gives fire to humans, Zeus plans a countermeasure that will bring suffering to the human race. He instructs the gods to make Pandora, who is then sent to Epimetheus with the container of troubles.
The myth presents Pandora as part of a divine punishment rather than as an independent villain acting from the beginning. Different retellings emphasize her curiosity, the gods’ deception, or the release of suffering. Zeus’s role also distinguishes this story from other myths involving divine containers or punishments. Pandora is not made by Zeus alone: the other gods contribute her appearance and qualities, but Zeus initiates the plan.