During the reign of Charlemagne, particularly around 771, efforts were made to codify Roman law within the Frankish Empire. This legal reform aimed to create a unified legal system that would govern the diverse populations under Charlemagne's rule. The codification process was significant in establishing a sense of order and justice, influencing the administration of law in Europe for centuries to come.

The codification of Roman law had a profound impact on the literary culture of the time, as it provided a framework for legal and philosophical discourse. Poets and writers began to engage with legal themes in their works, reflecting on justice, morality, and governance. This legalistic approach influenced later literary movements, including the Renaissance, where the interplay between law and poetry became a significant theme.