Alcibiades was a controversial personality. An exceptionally charismatic and at the same time excessively ambitious individual, he betrayed his country and led it to its utter destruction. However, ambition as a motive does not in itself suffice to interpret such a behavior. In Alcibiades’ heart and mind his love and hatred for Athens are interrelated. In all his actions his inferior instincts fight against the noblest part of his soul. The tragic character of his existence results from this inner struggle.