Character traits of Achilles

Although the most powerful warrior of the Trojan war, Achilles was his own worst enemy. He suffered from an overweaning pride, called Hubris, which seemed to be a common characteristic of many Greek heroes (e.g. Oedipus).

He is seen as impetuous, but loving to his closest comrades (Patroclos, Phoinix, Antilochus) and an honourable man (through the compassionate mercy he showed to Priam in returning Hector's body) - quite a contrast from how his son, Neoptolemus, is portrayed in Virgil's Aeneid. Achilles was also very selfish.