Jacopone da Todi was an Italian Franciscan poet and mystic known for his emotional devotional poetry, particularly the Laude, which likely includes the hymn Stabat Mater. After the death of his wife, he became a Franciscan layman, leading an austere life, and joined the 'Spirituals', who adhered to the strict rules of the order. He was opposed by Pope Boniface VIII, whom he criticized, leading to his opposition to the Pope and his imprisonment.