How is Lancot different from the traditional hero in the novel, Dragonfield?

According to author, Jane Yolen, the resemblance of the name Lancot to Lancelot is deliberate, probably intending to point out the contrast between Lancot's cowardice and the legendary knight Lancelot's courage in warfare. "He [Lancot] knew he was no god."

"Heroes and gods were never afraid, and he was deadly afraid every day of his life." A notable aspect of Lancot is that in spite of his fear and the vagabond way of life, he is not the stereotypical handsome hulk without intelligence. He is an intelligent man and has a spiritual nature that few would guess existed.