Epimetheus receives Pandora in Hesiod’s story despite his brother Prometheus’s warning.
Epimetheus is a Titan whose name is traditionally interpreted as “afterthought,” contrasting with Prometheus, whose name suggests “forethought.” Hesiod uses that contrast to characterize their decisions. Prometheus warns Epimetheus not to accept gifts from Zeus, but Epimetheus accepts Pandora when she arrives.
Pandora’s arrival is part of Zeus’s response to Prometheus’s theft of fire. Once she enters the human household, the story reaches its famous turning point when the container is opened and troubles spread among mortals. Epimetheus’s decision is therefore the immediate link between Zeus’s plan and Pandora’s presence among humans.
Modern retellings sometimes make Epimetheus Pandora’s husband in a straightforward romantic plot. In Hesiod, however, the emphasis is on his poor judgment and the consequences of accepting a divine gift. His name and role are also easy to confuse with Prometheus because both are Titans and brothers.