Works and Days Summary

"Works and Days" addresses Perses, Hesiod's brother. Hesiod begins the poem with an appeal to the Muses of Pieria to give him the words he desires. He goes on to explain that there are two kinds of Strife instead of one; the first is cruel and fosters war while the second is the elder daughter of Night and is wholesome for men. He chides Perses not to let mischief-loving Strife prevent him from work. Hesiod accuses Perses of seizing the greater share of their inheritance.

Zeus hides fire from men, but Prometheus steals it for mankind, angering Zeus. In retribution and punishment, Zeus plans an evil thing for men. Hephaestrus fashions a maiden, Athene teaches her about finery, Aphrodite gives her grace and beauty, and Hermes gives her a shameless mind and deceitful nature. Zeus calls the woman Pandora...