The novel devotes much space to defining good and bad behavior, and various characters illustrate these principles. Martin and Matthias embody heroism. Every time Matthias looks at the tapestry that visually records events from the abbey’s past, his eyes focus on the small square devoted to Martin’s exploits:

Matthias pointed to the figure woven into the tapestry. It was a heroic-looking mouse with a fearless smile on his handsome face. Clad in armor, he leaned casually on an impressive sword, while behind him foxes, wildcats and vermin fled in terror. The young mouse gazed in admiration (14-15).

Matthias seems to be most fixated on Martin’s good looks and strength and the glory these attributes have gained for him. The rest of the novel teaches the young mouse the difference between looking like a hero and acting like one.

While the rest of the woodlanders are engaged in defending Redwall, Matthias goes on a series of symbolic quests to recover the tapestry and find Martin’s lost sword. Achieving his goal in each case is less important than the bonds of friendship he develops along the way. Warbeak is initially his foe. The sparrows have always been at odds with the rest of the abbey creatures.