After Prometheus stole fire for humanity, Zeus grew hostile towards men. He ordered his son Hephaestus to mold a beautiful maiden from clay. The gods and goddesses each bestowed upon her a gift: Athena gave her elegant robes, Hermes granted her the power of deception, and others added their own traits. This first woman, named Pandora by Zeus, was sent to Earth as a deceptive gift.
Hermes delivered Pandora to Epimetheus, brother of Prometheus. Enchanted by her beauty, Epimetheus welcomed her into his home, forgetting his brother's warning never to accept anything from Zeus. For a time, they lived happily.
Prometheus had left a large jar (often called a "box") in Epimetheus's care, with strict instructions never to open it. Pandora, consumed by curiosity, lifted the lid one day while Epimetheus was away. Out flew all the evils that plague humanity: strife, war, disease, theft, sorrow, and more. Only Hope remained trapped inside the jar's mouth. Thus, humanity was left to endure these sufferings, yet always retains hope within.