"I really don't understand what you're trying to tell me, sorry." - I like the other kind of map, less exploring, or exploring in other method
"The first person segment is really brief, just to get rid of the 4 heroes in the starting base. I don't know what you mean with 'edit out',.. if you mean by using the editor, then yes the level is easier if you use the level editor first. But I'm happy to hear how you feel after you've played it." - No, it is a phrase from Max Payne 2: "...edit it out"
Also, map is brief yes
"I am however, also very interested not in simply if you like the map or not, but also your opinion of the DK1 map design principles I mention. Would you like to see that come back in more DK1 maps, or not, and if so, which ones?" - Design of the map feels like you have done it no matter what. Feels, dull, tough the final battles were on good, fresh thing.
"What is it that strikes you as different in the map I posted, and is that because of one of the principles I listed, and if yes, does that mean for you that principle is invalid?" - Yes, too much scripted thing, it eats out the original style of playing.
EDIT: Try to compare this one to my map/maps. They are completely different and design of my maps are pretty noobish, though I tell you the maps what I haven't released are better in big time.
Digging, Building, Defending, Attacking, and no possession spell unless specifically used in certain circumstances. Also slapping is disabled, as well as speed monster spell and so on.
Like playing as Neanderthal
I finished the map, failed at first time with Warlock being too long on lava, second time I was way out unprepared, third time same thing, but after I found it out you can do things easier, you win.
I recommend to select Warlock for better start. Of course the gamestyle affects there