Plectrude, born around the year six hundred fifty, emerged as a significant figure in the early medieval period as the consort of Pepin of Herstal, the influential mayor of the palace and duke of the Franks. Their union, which began around the year six hundred seventy, positioned her at the heart of Frankish politics during a transformative era.
As the daughter of Hugobert, who served as the seneschal to Clovis IV, and Irmina of Oeren, Plectrude was born into a lineage of power and influence. Her familial connections undoubtedly played a role in her ascent within the aristocracy, allowing her to navigate the complexities of court life with skill and determination.
Following the death of Pepin in the year seven hundred fourteen, Plectrude took on the mantle of regent of Neustria, overseeing the realm during the minority of her grandson, Theudoald. Her regency, which lasted until the year seven hundred eighteen, was marked by her efforts to maintain stability and authority in a time of potential upheaval.