Loyalty
A major motif of the poem, indeed of the whole genre, is the concept of loyalty among companions. The poem introduces a number of characters whose main characteristic is loyalty. These characters show no real development throughout the story, their inner thoughts and feelings stay hidden. They are a pure conduit for an ideal the author wanted to instil into the story. In medieval times, the chivalric code did not allow companions to be disloyal in any way. That is why characters like Athulf or the stewards are, in the end, given new titles and expensive gifts, to award their loyalty. In how far they wanted these things is not part of the discussion.
Betrayal
Similarly to the motif of loyalty, betrayal plays an equally important role. In King Horn this role is mostly played by Horn's original companion Fikenhild. From the very beginning, this character is shunned for his questionable moral and his pursuit of Horn's love interest. Such indiscretions are absolutely forbidden in the chivalric code. Interestingly, and clearly a sign of these times, the woman's opinion on such matters are not part of this and they also play little role in the poem. In the end, the betrayer gets what he deserves, a gruesome death together with all those that helped him. In this sense, the motif of betrayal can be seen as a warning sign for those members of the audience that consider to stray from the path of righteousness.
Chivalry
As the poem is one of the oldest examples of chivalric romance, the motif of chivalry is strong throughout the poem. Derived from the French word for knight (chevalier), the chivalric code unofficially governed what was acceptable and unacceptable behavior of a person of noble birth. The story of King Horn presents these things in an idealistic fashion. The protagonist goes through multiple battles, defeating the invading infidels. He stays true to his love, even though other opportunities present themselves. He rewards his loyal friends.
Outer Appearance
The poem also uses outer appearance of characters to symbolize their character. The two main examples throughout the story are Horn himself and the main antagonist, Fikenhild. Horn is described as the most handsome and stunning character, quick on his feet and with a golden tongue. This positive appearance goes as far as that the leader of the Saracens, after capturing him and his companions, is so moved by this beauty that he lets them go. On the other side, Fikenhild is constantly described as an evil person inside out. At one point he is described as the worst of women's children, utterly disgusting. This concept that one's morality can be seen in one's physical attributes is still prevalent in modern literature and film.
Crown
As a poem set in the medieval world, the symbol of the crown is very important. It discriminates between the common folk and those that rule. Horn's journey only truly is finished when he is coronated. All the minor side characters are kings, therefore a source of power and influence. The crown is used as a reward for the loyalty of good friends. This concept, to signify royalty with a headdress, is so prevalent in human culture that the word crown can be traced back to ancient Greek times. Therefore, it is no coincidence that the symbol plays such a big role in this chivalric romance poem.
