In Greek mythology, Hermes leads Pandora to Epimetheus after Zeus has her created. As Zeus’s messenger, Hermes transports Pandora and presents her to Epimetheus, the brother of Prometheus.
The episode follows Prometheus’s theft of fire for humanity. Prometheus warns Epimetheus not to accept gifts from Zeus, but Epimetheus accepts Pandora. The story then connects her arrival with the opening of the container that releases suffering into the world, while Hope remains inside in the familiar later interpretation.
Hermes has several roles in Greek mythology, including messenger, guide, and god associated with trade and cunning. Because many summaries mention only “a messenger,” his name can be overlooked. The messenger in Hesiod’s account is Hermes, not Hephaestus, who is the craftsman involved in making Pandora.