In Greek mythology, Epimetheus was Pandora’s husband or companion when Zeus sent her among humans.
Epimetheus was a Titan and the brother of Prometheus. His name is commonly interpreted as “hindsight” or “afterthought,” contrasting with Prometheus, whose name is associated with forethought. This contrast is central to the story: Prometheus warned Epimetheus not to accept gifts from Zeus, but Epimetheus accepted Pandora despite the warning.
In many summaries, Pandora became Epimetheus’s wife. Hesiod’s Works and Days emphasizes his acceptance of her rather than describing a detailed wedding narrative. After Pandora opened the container, the troubles released into the world, while hope remained inside in the usual interpretation of the story.
Epimetheus is sometimes confused with Prometheus because both belong to the Titan family and appear in the same myth cycle. They are not the same figure: Prometheus is the fire-bringer and adviser, while Epimetheus is the recipient of Zeus’s gift and Pandora’s companion.