Sir Orfeo's wife
Queen Heurodis is a symbol of beauty and femininity in the poem, and is described as being "beyond compare the fairest lady." She is described as being kind and full of "love and gentleness," and is therefore a symbol of typically "feminine" virtues.
The Hunt
The fairy hunters ultimately fail during a hunt, struggling to catch any prey. This is significant, as it represents their inferiority to Sir Orfeo, and hints at their loss later in the poem.
Music
Music is a significant symbol in this poem, and ultimately represents the existence of order and harmony. This is set in contrast to the disorder Orfeo experiences after his life is turned upside down by the kidnap of his wife. As such, music is represented as a remedy or escape from suffering, and reminder that order can be created from disorder.
Orfeo's harp
Orfeo's harp is mentioned throughout the poem, and is therefore a key motif. His harp represents his capacity for human emotion and sorrow, as it is something he uses to process the problems he is experiencing. The idea of Orfeo as a composer of music also connects him to the idea of creation, which places him firmly at the centre of this poem as being an almost god-like figure.
Love
Love is another key motif of the text, and is mentioned frequently. At the very beginning of the poem, the speaker tells us that most poems throughout history are about love. This introduces the main theme of Sir Orfeo, which is the protagonist's deep love for his wife, and the extents to which he will go in order to save her.
