Theudebert II

Theudebert II, born around five hundred eighty-five, was a prominent monarch who ruled as the King of Austrasia from five hundred ninety-five until his demise in six hundred twelve. He was the son and heir of Childebert II, inheriting a vast kingdom that included not only Austrasia but also significant cities such as Poitiers, Tours, Le Puy-en-Velay, Bordeaux, and Châteaudun, along with regions like Champagne, Auvergne, and Transjurane Alemannia.

During his formative years, Theudebert was under the regency of his grandmother, Brunhilda, who wielded considerable influence over him and his brother, Theuderic II, the ruler of Burgundy. As the brothers matured, their relationship soured, often leading to conflict, particularly as Brunhilda favored Theuderic. In five hundred ninety-nine, Theudebert took a decisive step by expelling Brunhilda from his court, a move likely encouraged by the nobility who were weary of her dominance.

The expulsion ignited a series of hostilities between the brothers, culminating in a brief but fierce war. Theuderic emerged victorious in a battle at Sens, but their cousin Chlothar II seized the opportunity to invade Neustria. The brothers temporarily reconciled to confront Chlothar, achieving a significant victory at Dormelles. However, their alliance was short-lived, and they soon clashed again, with Theuderic defeating Theudebert at Étampes.

In six hundred five, Theudebert declined to assist his brother during an invasion by Chlothar II. Tensions escalated further, leading to Theudebert extorting Alsace from Theuderic, which prompted yet another conflict. The civil war reached its climax in six hundred twelve when Theudebert faced a decisive defeat at Toul and Zülpich, resulting in his deposition and confinement in a monastery by Brunhilda, who ultimately orchestrated his death along with that of his son, Merovech.

Theudebert II was married to Bilichild, and their daughter, Emma, is sometimes believed to have married Eadbald of Kent, linking their lineage to other notable historical figures.