Many people have probably heard the phrase “Open Pandora’s Box”, but the meaning of the phraseology and who Pandora is may not be known to everyone.
Where did the phrase “Open Pandora’s Box” come from?
In the original it was a pitcher (pythos), but thanks to an incorrect translation by Erasmus of Rotterdam, the world became aware of the box. It was in this box that all human vices, misfortunes, and diseases were stored, which were put there by the supreme god of Olympus, Zeus. He decided to take revenge on Prometheus, who had given people fire, so he ordered the gods to create the incredible beauty Pandora. Zeus gave her a box with an order not to open it under any circumstances and gave her as a wife to Epimetheus, Prometheus’ younger brother. The curious Pandora disobeyed and opened the box. All the misfortunes and troubles came out of the box and flew to the people. When Pandora looked at the bottom of the box, she saw that there was only hope…
What does the expression “Pandora’s Box” mean?
The phrase “opening Pandora’s box” is used when something very bad has been done and cannot be undone. With the development of nuclear power, humanity has received a new Pandora’s Box, but there is still hope with us.
