In Greek mythology, which Titan’s brother was Epimetheus?

The story behind the answer

In Greek mythology, Epimetheus was the brother of Prometheus. Both are Titans, and their names express contrasting ideas: Prometheus is commonly associated with forethought, while Epimetheus is associated with afterthought.

The brothers play different roles in the human origin story. Prometheus defies Zeus by stealing fire for humanity, while Epimetheus accepts Pandora despite Prometheus’s warning not to accept gifts from Zeus.

Hesiod’s Works and Days presents Epimetheus as a figure who realizes the consequences of an action only afterward. His acceptance of Pandora leads into the story of the container whose opening spreads suffering among humans.

Prometheus is also prominent in other Greek myths, especially those involving fire, sacrifice, and human creation. Epimetheus appears less often, but their brotherhood is essential to the Pandora narrative and helps explain the contrast between caution and hindsight.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Oct. 2026

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