In Greek mythology, whom did Pandora marry before opening the famous jar?

The story behind the answer

In Greek mythology, Pandora married Epimetheus before opening the famous jar.

Epimetheus was the Titan brother of Prometheus. His name is commonly translated as “afterthought” or “hindsight,” contrasting with Prometheus, whose name means “forethought.” Prometheus had warned Epimetheus not to accept gifts from Zeus, but Epimetheus accepted Pandora when she arrived.

Hesiod’s Works and Days presents Pandora as part of Zeus’s punishment after Prometheus stole fire for humanity. Pandora was sent to Epimetheus, and her opening of the container released evils into the world. Later traditions connect Pandora and Epimetheus with Pyrrha, who survives the great flood with Deucalion in Greek mythology.

A common mix-up is assigning Pandora to Prometheus, because Prometheus is central to the fire episode. In the traditional story, however, Pandora is paired with Epimetheus, while Prometheus is his warning-giving brother.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Sept. 2026

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