In popular understanding, Arjuna is considered the hero of the Mahabharata, primarily because he receives the wisdom of the Gita from Krishna. In the Gita, Krishna uses grand adjectives to address Arjuna, such as Sabhyasachi (one who is ambidextrous, i.e. can skillfully use both his left and right hand), Gudakesha (one who has overcome slumber) and Dhananjaya (one who brings prosperity). However, the epic itself does not paint a flattering picture of Arjuna:

Illustration / Devdutt Patnaik