Publication of the Sachsenspiegel
What happened
The publication of the 'Sachsenspiegel' in 1220 marked a significant moment in the legal history of medieval Germany. Written by Eike von Repgow, this legal treatise served as a comprehensive guide to the laws and customs of the Saxon people. Its importance lies in its role as one of the earliest codifications of German law, influencing legal practices and the development of legal systems in the region for centuries to come.
Literary impact
The publication of the 'Sachsenspiegel' in 1220, written in Low German, played a crucial role in standardizing the vernacular for legal and administrative purposes. This contributed to the legitimacy of vernacular literature and poetry in Germany, encouraging the use of local languages in literary expression.
Source: Wikipedia