In 1215, the Catholic Church codified its canon law during the Fourth Lateran Council, establishing a comprehensive legal framework for ecclesiastical governance. This codification had far-reaching implications for the Church's authority and its relationship with secular powers. The legal principles established during this period influenced various aspects of life, including literature and poetry.

The codification of canon law inspired poets to engage with themes of morality, justice, and the interplay between divine and human law. The legalistic language and concepts found in poetry reflected the societal norms and values shaped by the Church's authority during this period.