- According to Hesiod, Prometheus created humanity out of clay and water, after which the gods fashioned it into the proper form of living beings. Zeus, in particular, breathed life into them.
- Prometheus also brought fire to humanity after stealing it from Mount Olympus. It is said that he hid it in a piece of fennel and gave it to mortal man. Zeus was furious at this act of defiance and punished both Prometheus and mankind for it.
- Prometheus was chained to a rock, where an eagle would eat his liver every day. His liver would then regenerate overnight so that the eagle could eat it again the next day. This torment would last for eternity, unless someone was willing to take Prometheus' place. Eventually, the centaur Chiron volunteered to take Prometheus' place, and was subsequently released.
- Prometheus is also credited with giving humans the gift of foresight, as well as teaching them the arts of civilization, such as agriculture, medicine, and metalworking.
- Prometheus' name means "forethought" in Greek, which reflects his role as the protector and benefactor of mankind.