Prometheus stole fire for humans before Pandora appeared in Hesiod’s mythology.
Prometheus is a Titan known for helping humanity. In the story surrounding Pandora, he deceives Zeus during a sacrifice and later takes fire from the gods, giving it to humans. Zeus responds by withholding benefits and arranging Pandora’s creation as punishment.
The myth links fire with human civilization, craft, and independence. Because fire allows people to cook, work metal, and survive in difficult conditions, Prometheus’s theft is often treated as a symbolic explanation for technological progress. His action also establishes the conflict that leads directly to Pandora’s arrival.
Prometheus is frequently confused with Epimetheus because the two are brothers and their names form a deliberate contrast. Prometheus represents forethought, while Epimetheus represents afterthought. Prometheus warns his brother not to accept Zeus’s gift, but Epimetheus ignores the warning. Pandora is therefore part of the consequences of Prometheus’s defiance, even though she is received by Epimetheus.