In Greek mythology, which man accepted Pandora as his wife despite Zeus’s warning?

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In Greek mythology, Epimetheus accepted Pandora as his wife despite Zeus’s warning.

Epimetheus was a Titan and the brother of Prometheus. His name is commonly interpreted as “afterthought,” contrasting with Prometheus, whose name means “forethought.” In Hesiod’s account, Zeus sends Pandora to Epimetheus as part of his punishment of humanity after Prometheus steals fire.

Prometheus had warned Epimetheus never to accept a gift from Zeus, but Epimetheus accepted Pandora anyway. Pandora later opened the container she had brought with her, releasing troubles into the human world. The myth therefore links Epimetheus with poor judgment and delayed realization.

A common mix-up is to identify Prometheus as Pandora’s husband. Prometheus is her creator’s brother and humanity’s advocate, but Epimetheus is the figure who marries her. Hesiod’s Works and Days and Theogony provide the main surviving ancient accounts connected with Pandora.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Oct. 2026

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