MNML - An ultra-minimal Python web framework

After growing out of the extensive feature set and perceived bloat of Django, and inspired by the new wave of super-tiny Python WSGI/Web frameworks such as Juno, Web.py, and Newf, I thought it a good exercise to write my own. MNML only includes features I feel are useful (if you disagree with the batteries I include you're free to use another framework).

Core Philosophy

MNML's core philosophy is that I really love writing Python and want to do that for most things, but I also want a certain level of "plumbing" taken care of for me. In addition, MNML:

• Is strictly WSGI;
• Provides URL mapping to HTTP response relationship, aka routing;
• Provides methods for all HTTP method verbs (PUT and DELETE are supported);
• Provides named route matching for URLs with the ability to reverse said URLs (like Django's reverse function);
• Provides the ability to add middleware functions so one can alter the request or response as required;
• Does not dictate the template or ORM layer you should use--MNML is strictly about URL routing and serving, and tools needed to do so; and mostly
• Lets the implementer write Python, not a sub-set of Python.

Finally, MNML will be covered by extensive unit tests!

TODO

Must haves

• Unit tests;
• URL reversing;
• Shortcuts for redirects, gone, 404 etc;
• Support for middleware (required for sessions at the least);
• Support web.py style method routing: class MyRoute(object): def GET(self, request): pass def POST(self, request): pass;
• More unit tests;
• Production WSGI interface for Apache etc.

Maybes

• SCGI support so Google App Engine can run it;
• De-couple routes from system so people can roll their own (using /resource/:arg/, for example);
• Response middleware to doctor the response.

Recommended Extensions

• Jinja2 for templates;
• Beaker for sessions;