Medieval romances typically examine a code of conduct by which members of the nobility are expected to govern their lives. Havelok the Dane reflects such a code, but one which falls somewhere between the older heroic code of the epic and saga (as found in Beowulf] and the chivalric code of the pure medieval romance (as found in Sir Gawain and the Green Knight). While the epic hero may be somewhat uncouth or even barbaric at times, the chivalric hero is expected to be more civilized and refined in his behavior. Havelok's feats of physical prowess (such as his victory in the stone-heaving contest and his fending off attackers with a wooden door-bar) stem from his great size and strength and reflect the older concept of the hero.

Yet Havelok is also described as being kind to children, courteous to women, modest and generous...