In the Greek myth of Pandora’s box, Pandora’s husband Epimetheus was known for being foolish.
Epimetheus’s name is commonly understood as “afterthought” or “hindsight,” contrasting with his brother Prometheus, whose name is associated with forethought. That contrast reflects their roles in the myth. Prometheus warns Epimetheus not to accept gifts from Zeus, but Epimetheus accepts Pandora when she arrives. His failure to follow the warning helps bring about the release of suffering into the human world.
Calling Epimetheus foolish does not mean that every version describes him with exactly the same English adjective. Translations may use “thoughtless,” “foolish,” or wording that emphasizes his lack of foresight. The central idea is consistent: he acts after the opportunity for wise planning has passed.
Epimetheus is therefore more than a minor character attached to Pandora. His name and action create the myth’s paired contrast between forethought and hindsight. That contrast also explains why Prometheus, rather than Epimetheus, is usually remembered as the clever Titan who helps humanity.