Valor and love were major aspects of the Anglo-Saxon period, displayed in life, battle and literature. The Knight of the Cart traces the theme of love, which spurs the acts of valor preformed by Lancelot. Throughout the narrative Lancelot portrays the aspect of valor, as it pertains to a knight's life, through his thoughts, actions and relationship with Guinevere, which forced him to compromise his honor and defend his image. Controlled by love, the valor and glorious acts of Lancelot are attributed to the overwhelming love he feels for Guinevere. .
Chretien de Troyes uses various language and numerous examples in the text to portray the courtly love existing between Lancelot and Queen Guinevere. Often times Lancelot is described to existent in another world. The love he holds for Guinevere causes Lancelot to preside mentally in a dream world, a world in which he is with Guinevere. No clearer is this idea presented than when Lancelot refused to heed the warning of the sentry, for " our love-stricken knight had never left his silent dreamworld" (de Troyes 24). The courtly love between Lancelot and Guinevere is so powerful that it affects the actions and mindset of Lancelot at every turn in the poem. Lancelot chooses his actions, not out of desire for valor, but out of love for Guinevere. This courtly love inspires our knight to act with valor and courage. Lancelot's thoughts show us that "like all courtly lovers, Lancelot believes that he owes all his worthiness as a knight to his desire for Guinevere" (Kennedy 139). Ironically, in an attempt to rescue Guinevere and complete his journey quickly Lancelot shows his valor and worth. Taking on a multitude of perils and acting with such valor and courage from the instant of the cart to the final battle with Meleagant, Lancelot's quest is marked by valor fueled from his courtly love. .
During the time of Lancelot: The Knight of the Cart honor and valor were prized possessions of a knight.
