In the Greek creation story, who gives all the best gifts to animals, leaving none for men?

• A. Zeus
• B. Hercules
• C. Epimetheus
• D. Pandora

Answer: (C)

Epimetheus is the figure who, in Hesiod’s account, distributes the gifts to creatures and ends up giving all the best qualities to animals, leaving nothing for humans. This choice highlights a contrast with his brother Prometheus, who later acts to empower humans by stealing fire and giving them knowledge. The name Epimetheus itself suggests “afterthought,” underscoring his role in a misallocation that leaves humanity bereft of the good traits animals receive. The other figures don’t fit: Pandora is the first woman linked to human punishment rather than gift distribution, Zeus is the king who enforces consequences rather than distributing gifts, and Hercules is a heroic figure from later myths not involved in this particular episode.