What was Achilles' fatal flaw?

Achilles' fatal flaw, in Greek mythology, was his vulnerability at his heel. According to myth, his mother, Thetis, dipped him into the River Styx, which was supposed to offer powers of invulnerability. However, as she held him by the heel, it was not washed over by the water and thus remained vulnerable. Achilles grew up to be one of the greatest Greek warriors during the Trojan War. Yet as foretold by prophecy, he died from a wound to his unprotected heel, which came to be known as "Achilles' heel."

The story of Achilles' heel has transcended its mythological origins to become a metaphor used to describe an individual's principal weakness, despite overall strength. In terms of character traits, "Achilles' fatal flaw" may also refer to a hero's tragic flaw (hamartia) that leads to their downfall in classical literature and tragedy. This concept doesn't just apply to physical vulnerabilities but can also symbolize character weaknesses, such as pride (hubris), excessive ambition, or overconfidence, which eventually leads to the character's demise or failure. In education, this myth is often used to illustrate themes in literature, psychology, and even to discuss human nature's complexities. It serves as a powerful reminder that everyone has a vulnerability, no matter how powerful they appear.