A Clan is guided by the principles and beliefs of the cats who came before. The identity of a Clan is carved by those who uphold its values.
A Clan so steeped in tradition and the way of the warrior places a large part of their identity on integrity. Other Clans may spite OakClan for their righteousness, saying they go too far in trying to keep a tight grip on their pride. But honor is what makes a warrior, and OakClan cats generally want to do right by the code.
Perhaps this way of thinking as strengthened after the Imposter's horrific reign over OakClan. Many warriors are eager to put it behind them and continue their proud legacy of principles. Others believe their honor has been fractured by their actions, and are desperately trying to regain it.
It's no secret that OakClan has seen a lot of grief and betrayal. There's perhaps no Clan in the whole Vale that has been tested through blood and tears more than the forest cats. It's enough to have broken some, but OakClan is a Clan of strength and a fierce will - they survived their hardships, and they will continue to survive their future.
Through the Imposter's actions, OakClan was turned upside down. Honorable warriors forced to comply or flee. Good cats having been killed for their honor. Yet, their bravery gives them strength. And they will never lose it again.
OakClan's faith in their ancestors is a bit tricky. While the vast majority of the Clan continues to believe, it's safe to say that their relationship with StarClan had been damaged during the reign of the false leader. Why wasn't StarClan there to help? Why did they allow a tyrant to rule for so long?
In recent days, StarClan doesn't play as large a part in their daily lives as it once did. Perhaps someday, OakClan's faith will return to its old heights. But for now, most warriors are content to look inward for guidance.
Once, OakClan was the Clan who perhaps followed the code more closely than anybody. Their deep sense of honor made them view the code as gospel - always to be followed and respected in order for OakClan to remain who they are.
The Imposter's reign both tainted and strengthened this view. OakClan clings so tight to the code, wanting to return to their glory days before the rip in their Clan happened. But maybe the code is also what allowed the tyrant cat to rule so completely. Either way, OakClan tries to stick close to the warrior code as much as possible.