The Theft of Fire is originally inspired by the myth of Prometheus and his consequent punishment.
In greek mythology, Prometheus is the responsible for the Theft of Fire from the Gods.
According to the classical texts, the titan Prometheus created the humans from the clay. In order to enlighten them with wisdom, he committed one of the biggest crimes ever by stealing the sacred fire. That way he brought great teachings/revelations and technological progress to the vulnerable race of humans.