Epimetheus is a second-generation Titan in Greek mythology and the brother of Prometheus. His name means “afterthought,” which reflects his impulsive and short-sighted nature. Best known for accepting Pandora and thus unleashing suffering upon humanity, Epimetheus plays a pivotal role in mythological explanations of human frailty and error.
Meaning and Etymology
The name “Epimetheus” (Greek: Ἐπιμηθεύς) translates directly to “afterthought.” It contrasts with his brother Prometheus, meaning “forethought,” and together the two represent opposite cognitive forces: impulsiveness versus planning.
Symbolism
Epimetheus symbolizes the human tendency to act without thinking and the consequences that can follow. His story is often viewed as a cautionary tale about ignoring warnings and underestimating the impact of choice. He is the mythic embodiment of hindsight and regret.
Powers and Responsibilities
Unlike his more famous brother, Epimetheus has no direct divine powers. However, he was originally tasked with giving gifts to all animals, endowing them with abilities like speed, strength, or fur. By the time he reached humans, he had nothing left to give, forcing Prometheus to steal fire to aid mankind.
Family and Relations
- Parents: Iapetus and Clymene (or Asia)
- Siblings: Prometheus, Atlas, Menoetius
- Wife: Pandora, the first woman created by the gods
- Children:
- Pyrrha – survived the Great Flood and helped repopulate the earth with Deucalion
Appearances in Myth
- Creation of Animals: Epimetheus distributed traits to animals but forgot to save any gifts for humans.
- Pandora’s Jar: Despite Prometheus’s warnings, Epimetheus accepted Pandora as a gift from the gods. When she opened her jar, all evils escaped into the world—leaving only hope inside.
- Great Flood Legacy: Through his daughter Pyrrha and her husband Deucalion, Epimetheus became an ancestor to the renewed human race following Zeus’s flood.
Worship and Cult Centers
Epimetheus was not worshipped in ancient Greece and had no temples or cult centers. His legacy is philosophical and literary, offering lessons about human behavior and divine consequence.
Representation in Art
Epimetheus is rarely depicted in classical art. When included, he appears in scenes with Prometheus or Pandora—usually as a passive or naive figure beside the moment Pandora opens her jar.
Modern Appearances
Books and Literature
- Mythos by Stephen Fry – Retells Epimetheus’s tragic role in accepting Pandora and its implications for humanity.
- Pandora’s Jar by Natalie Haynes – Explores the narrative of Pandora and includes analysis of Epimetheus’s part in the myth.
TV and Streaming
- Clash of the Gods (History Channel) – Epimetheus appears in episodes about Prometheus and Pandora.
- Gods and Heroes – Documentary-style content on Amazon and YouTube touches on his mythic symbolism.
Video Games
- Hades by Supergiant Games – While Epimetheus does not appear, the narrative of divine oversight and punishment closely reflects his themes.
- Smite – Frequently referenced in fan content and myth breakdowns, particularly in relation to Pandora-themed items and skins.