Mythful Meanings

In the English language, many meanings come from myths. This blog considers many of those words.

Myths are stories people tell to explain the great mysteries of life, such as birth and death, why the sun rises and sets, and why the moon changes in a predictable pattern.

I decided to start over from the end of the alphabet and work toward the beginning. I have a stack of index cards with information typed on them, all in alphabetical order. When I started this blog, I started at A, because I didn't realize that all the entries would be pushed down.

Tuesday, October 2, 2007

Pandora

According to an ancient Greek myth, Pandora was the first woman. Zeus, the chief god, ordered ordered Hephaestus (Roman, Vulcan) to create her, in order to retaliate against humans, after Prometheus stole fire and gave it to men.

The myth goes on to say that Pandora received gifts from all the gods, and brought with her a jar or box she was told must never be opened. Versions of the myth vary, but the most common one says that she couldn't resist, and when she opened it, out flew all the evils that assail humanity. The only thing left inside was hope.

English word: The phrase "Pandora's box" means mixed blessings.

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