Epimetheus

Epimetheus

Epimetheus was one of the Titans, son of Iapetus and Clymene. He was the brother of Prometheus, Atlas and Menoetius.

Epimetheus' Name and Role

His name is derived from the Greek word meaning 'afterthought', which is the antonym of his brother's name, Prometheus, meaning 'forethought'. In this context, Epimetheus appeared as a foolish character, while Prometheus was the clever one.

Epimetheus Gives Traits to animals

Prometheus and Epimetheus were told to distribute characteristics to the newly created animals.

What about Man?

Epimetheus started giving a positive trait to every animal, but lacking foresight, he realised that he had distributed all traits without having any left to give to man. So, Prometheus gave mankind the civilizing arts and fire.

Epimetheus Marries Pandora

Epimetheus received Pandora as a gift from the gods; a human created by the gods specifically to punish the humans. The marriage of Epimetheus and Pandora is not explicit in any source, but only implied; from their union, Pyrrha, their daughter, was born.

Pandora's Box

Pandora was given a jar which contained all evils of humanity; curious to see what was inside, she opened it and all evils were released into the world. Shocked, she closed it as soon as she could, but only Hope remained trapped inside.

See Also: Titans, Iapetus, Prometheus, Atlas, Menoetius, Zeus

Epimetheus Q&A

Who was Epimetheus?

Epimetheus was one of the Titans, son of Iapetus and Clymene. He was the brother of Prometheus, Atlas and Menoetius.

Who were the parents of Epimetheus?

The parents of Epimetheus were Iapetus and Clymene.

Who were brothers and sisters of Epimetheus?

Epimetheus had 2 siblings: Prometheus and Atlas and Menoetius.

Who was the consort of Epimetheus?

Epimetheus' consort was Pandora.

How many children did Epimetheus have?

Epimetheus had 1 child Pyrrha.