In Greek mythology, Epimetheus receives Pandora after Zeus sends her to humanity. Epimetheus is a Titan and the brother of Prometheus, and Hesiod places him at the center of the myth’s decisive mistake.
Prometheus warns Epimetheus not to accept gifts from Zeus. Epimetheus ignores the warning when Pandora arrives, and the story then moves toward the opening of the vessel containing the world’s evils. His name is traditionally interpreted as “afterthought,” contrasting with Prometheus, whose name is associated with forethought.
Some modern retellings simplify the story by making Pandora and Prometheus a couple, but that is not Hesiod’s family relationship. The canonical ancient account identifies Epimetheus as Pandora’s companion or husband. Pandora’s later association with curiosity and the opened vessel has made her more famous than Epimetheus.