Achilles’ Heel 🦶
Definition: A vulnerable or weak spot that can lead to downfall.
Origin: Derived from the Greek myth of the hero Achilles, articulated in Homer’s “Iliad.” According to myth, Achilles’ mother, Thetis, held him by the heel and dipped him into the River Styx to make him almost invincible. However, because his heel remained dry, it became his only point of vulnerability. He met his tragic fate with an arrow to this very spot. The term entered literary canon around two centuries ago and has remained in vogue as a cliché.
Humor-Filled Quote: “The secret to immortality might just be better than a high-quality pedicure—or then again, maybe not.”
Synonyms:
- Weakness
- Vulnerability
- Soft spot
- Fragility
- Flaw
Antonyms:
- Strength
- Fortitude
- Indomitus
- Resilience
- Stalwartness
Related Phrases and Idioms:
- Flaw in the armor
- Soft underbelly
- Weak link
- Personal Kryptonite
- Waterloo
Proverbs:
- “Every giant has its Achilles’ heel.”
- “Even the strongest have their weaknesses.”
Literature References:
- Homer’s “Iliad”
- Gustave Flaubert’s “Madame Bovary” explores character weaknesses.
Books:
- “Mythology” by Edith Hamilton
- “Hero’s Journey” by Joseph Campbell
Movies:
- Troy (2004) starring Brad Pitt as Achilles
- Hercules (Disney’s animated take)
Songs:
- “Achilles Heel” by Blue October
- “Weaknesses” by McFly
Inspirational Thought: Even the mightiest have their frailties, but acknowledging your Achilles’ heel can be the first step towards true invincibility.
