ABSTRACT
A conflict arises between local traditions and the Pan-Hellenic version, and one would have to admit that the Pan-Hellenic Achilles, as with the Pan-Hellenic Apollo, is undoubtedly Homer's hero. Achilles was the son of Peleus, king of Phthia, in Thessaly. An evident example is the well-known cup depicting Achilles tending the wounded Patroclus, a scene probably derived from the Cypria. Achilles and the Aeacidae in general, are very frequently cited in the poet Pindar's odes, specifically in those known as the Aeginetan Odes dedicated to young athletes from the island of Aegina. Roman authors showed a preference in both literature and painting for episodes from Achilles' childhood, such as his mother's attempts to render him immortal, the boy's education at the hands of the centaur Chiron or his time on Skyros as a youth. The chapter also presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in this book.
