The Story of Elpis
Elpis was the spirit of hope and expectation. She is best known from the story of Pandora, the first woman, as told by Hesiod. Zeus sent Pandora to mankind with a jar that she was never to open.
When curiosity got the better of her, Pandora lifted the lid, and sickness, toil and countless troubles flew out into the world. She closed the jar just in time to keep one thing inside, and that was Elpis. Ever since, people have argued whether hope was kept back as a comfort for mankind or held in the jar as one more evil.
The poet Theognis wrote that Hope is the only good goddess still living among people, because all the others have left for Olympus. Artists showed Elpis as a young woman carrying flowers and lifting the hem of her dress as she walked. The Romans worshipped her as Spes and built several temples to her in their city.
Famous Myths About Elpis
Hope in Pandora's Jar
Zeus gave Pandora a jar and told her never to open it. When curiosity got the better of her, sickness, toil, and countless troubles flew out into the world, and she closed the lid just in time to keep only Hope inside.
Elpis's Family Tree
Parents of Elpis
Partners of Elpis
Children of Elpis
Frequently Asked Questions About Elpis
Who is Elpis in Greek mythology?
Elpis is the spirit of hope and expectation.
What is Elpis's role in the story of Pandora?
When Pandora opened her jar, all the evils of the world flew out. Only Elpis, or hope, remained inside when the lid was closed.
What is Elpis's Roman name?
The Romans called Elpis Spes.
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