In Hesiod’s myth, Zeus ordered the creation of Pandora.
Zeus devised Pandora as part of his punishment of humanity after Prometheus stole fire and gave it to mortals. He instructed the gods to create a woman whose arrival would bring a deceptive gift and suffering to humankind.
Hesiod presents Pandora’s creation in two works, the Theogony and Works and Days. Different gods contribute qualities or skills, while Hephaestus shapes her from earth. Zeus then sends her to Epimetheus, who accepts her despite Prometheus’s warning.
Modern retellings sometimes describe Pandora as simply curious or blame her alone for the world’s troubles. Hesiod’s version places the story within a larger conflict between Zeus and Prometheus, making Pandora part of a divine plan rather than an isolated event.