In Greek mythology, Pandora ("all gifted") was the first woman, fashioned by Zeus as part of the punishment of mankind for Prometheus' theft of the secret of fire.

Each of the gods gave Pandora a gift. Zeus' present was curiosity and a box which he ordered her never to open. From then, there was intense longing to open the box. She was convinced that because the gods and goddesses had showered so many glorious gifts upon her that this one would also be wonderful.

So one day, she opened the box.

Out of it flew all of the ills and wickedness which plague the humankind today. When lid wasfinally fastened shut, all of the evils had already escaped.

But there was something left at the bottom of the box...
Hope.