Final answer:
The term 'Achilles heel' is used metaphorically to denote a person's weakness; in the case of Amari, their love for high heels is causing them pain in the balls of their feet, an issue which aligns with the metaphorical use of Achilles heel as a personal vulnerability.
Step-by-step explanation:
The author refers to Achilles heel as a metaphor for a person's weakness or vulnerable point. This term originates from Greek mythology, where the hero Achilles could only be harmed at his heel.
The concept is often discussed in the context of individual vulnerabilities. The description of Achilles heel as it is used in the given texts, takes on a more literal form, with Steven explaining how Achilles' vulnerability was due to his mother dipping him in the river Styx by his heel, leaving the heel unprotected and ultimately leading to his death.
In a more medical context, the student seems to be referring to Amari's foot pain, which could metaphorically be described as their Achilles heel, seeing as Amari enjoys wearing high heels despite the pain in the balls of their feet.
This discomfort is likely due to metatarsalgia, a condition that involves pain in the ball of the foot, likely exacerbated by the pressure that high heels put on the metatarsals. The phrase "Achilles heel" could therefore be used to describe a personal weakness, in this case, Amari's preference for fashion over comfort that is causing them physical pain.