Common codex

The codex (book to be leafed through) replaced the volumen (book to be unrolled) in the High Middle Ages to become the support for different types of writings. A codex presents in an orderly and easily accessible way information that is less accessible on a scroll.

From being a support for writings, the codex comes to take on a broader and rarer meaning to designate particular writings that take the form of a set of principles, codes or laws to be followed.

It is this second meaning that we use to designate a reference text. More precisely, to present a body of principles, regulations, codes and laws that are proper to the juridicity of the common.