Elpis is the Greek name of the figure or concept representing hope in the Pandora myth.
In Hesiod’s Works and Days, Elpis remains inside the container after the other destructive forces escape. Ancient Greek elpis can refer to expectation or anticipation, and its meaning is broader than the modern English word “hope.” This linguistic range is one reason scholars discuss whether the myth presents Elpis as a blessing, a restraint, or an ambiguous part of human existence.
Elpis is also treated in Greek mythology as a personification. In artistic and literary traditions, she can appear as a young woman carrying flowers or other symbols of optimism, although representations are much less common than images of Pandora herself.
Elpis should not be confused with Nike, the personification of victory, or Eris, the goddess associated with strife. The word “elpis” is specifically connected with the remaining presence in Pandora’s container.