Greek myth about the dangers of curiosity and the origin of evil in the world

1. Pandora’s Box
by Sam Yarabek
Things To Know/ Things To Think About
The story of Pandora, and her infamous box, is one of the
most foundational myths in Greek Mythology. In this myth, the
Greeks build on their unique system of cosmology by providing a
symbolic explanation for the origins of human nature. From this
magical worldview, human nature is not something innate, but the product of external forces­­a
curse inflicted by Zeus intended as a leveling mechanism. This curse comes in the guise of
Pandora, who Zeus creates, allegedly, as his most “generous gift to man.” In this way,
“Pandora’s Box” doesn’t just serve as a creation myth about the origins of human suffering, but
it also helps account for the origins of man’s other half: woman. Despite creating Pandora in the
image of a goddess, and imbuing her with no shortage of gifts and talents, Zeus bestows on her
one mixed blessing masked as a universal good, in this case, curiosity.
From Zeus’ admissions earlier in the story, we know that his decision to create Pandora
is not based on goodwill, but on fear. Fearing the growing strength of mankind, Zeus uses
Pandora as part of an elaborate ploy to keep man subjugated under his authoritative yoke. To this
end, before sending her to Earth, Zeus presents Pandora with a gold chest as a keepsake, but
commands her never to open it. Unknown to Pandora, the chest contains various ills that, up until
this point, were alien to mankind. Among them are Old­Age, Death, Disease, Hatred, Jealousy,
Worry, and Insanity. Zeus, however, being the omniscient deity that he is, is very much aware
that Pandora’s curiosity will gnaw at her until she opens the chest. In fact, this is precisely his
plan. One day, his plan finally comes to fruition when Pandora cannot resist temptation any
longer. As a result, all the evils contained within the chest make their way among the inhabitants
of earth, effectively destroying their idyllic community. Just when Pandora is most destitute,
however, she realizes that one creature failed to flee the chest. This creature turns out to be Hope.
By preserving Hope, Pandora guarantees that humankind will maintain faith in the face of
adversity and unendurable hardship.
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2. This piece is perfect as part of an introduction to myths, folktales and fables, particularly
those designed for a younger audience. In addition, this piece also works well as part of a lesson
on creation stories, and can be used to help inspire students to write their own creation myths.
Standards Addressed:
CCSS.ELA­LITERACY.RL.4.1
Refer to details and examples in a text when explaining what the text says explicitly and when
drawing inferences from the text.
CCSS.ELA­LITERACY.RL.4.2
Determine a theme of a story, drama, or poem from details in the text; summarize the text.
CCSS.ELA­LITERACY.RL.4.4
Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including those that
allude to significant characters found in mythology (e.g., Herculean)
CCSS.ELA­LITERACY.RL.5.9
Compare and contrast stories in the same genre (e.g., mysteries and adventure stories) on their
approaches to similar themes and topics.
Before Reading
1. In your opinion, how would you define hope? Similarly, what does hope mean to you?
Think about a time when you were hopeful, and share your answer with a partner.
During Reading
1. Why is Zeus scared of mankind? And what does he anticipate man will do? Support your
answer with details from the text. (CCSS.ELA­LITERACY.RL.4.1)
2. According to the text, what does Pandora’s name mean? And what gift does Zeus give
Pandora before bringing her to life? (CCSS.ELA­LITERACY.RL.4.4)
3. In the text, the author describes Pandora as being “drawn to” the chest “like a magnet.”
What kind of figurative language is this an example of? Furthermore, with your teacher’s
help, identify the tenor and vehicle of this literary device. (CCSS.ELA­LITERACY.RL.4.4)
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© Books That Grow, 2014

3. After Reading
1. In light of what happens after Pandora opens the box, what is significant about saving
Hope? (CCSS.ELA­LITERACY.RL.4.2)
Connections In Text
1. Read the story of Arachne contained within the Books That Grow library. Compare the
characterization of the goddess Athena, with the characterization of Zeus in the story of
“Pandora’s Box.” How are these characters portrayed similarly and differently? Which
portrayal is more sympathetic, and why? (CCSS.ELA­LITERACY.RL.5.9)
Further Readings
For Students:
http://www.panoply.org.uk/pandora.html#.VF0yufTF868
This link provides students with a claymation video rendering an adaptation of Pandora’s Box. It
also comes equipped with links for follow up activities and additional readings.
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© Books That Grow, 2014