Prince Valiant during the years of 1941 and 1942 was at its peak, a peak which would become a plateau in ensuing years. The speed of the storytelling in conjunction with the broad geography of the settings make these some of Val's most exciting and compelling adventures. And most importantly of all he meets the fascinating siren who would in future years become his love and his wife, the alluring Aleta of the Misty Isles.
These stories see a very young Prince Val eager to prove himself in a world which is a sprawling unknown. He displays immense courage and an acute understanding of military tactics well beyond his age. As adept as he is at warfare though he is every bit as confused when it comes to matters of his own heart, though he is able to become cupid for other couples.
As strong and skilled as Valiant is, it is his mind which seems always on display in these Hal Foster yarns. Whether it is outwitting a pirate captain or a addled sorcerer or even a kind of vampire, Valiant is able to fearlessly approach the problem. The most visually staggering enemies are the creatures of the Earth itself such as gorillas and elephants found in the depths of the African jungles, or a giant octopus used to kill the unwary in the center of a deadly castle.
Valiant is also seen as a most loyal friend. He partners with a viking leader named Boltar and later he finds that Sir Gawain needs his help yet again. But it is Aleta who wins his heart, though it is by the whims of fate that he comes to believe that her people are savage killers and not to be trusted. It will be another day before he learns the truth, but we can see already that Prince Valiant's heart has been given.
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