The Battle of Dormelles (c. 600 CE): Chlothar II’s Defeat by Theudebert II and Theuderic II

Around 600 CE, Chlothar II of Neustria, still a young ruler, launches a military campaign against his cousins, Theudebert II of Austrasia and Theuderic II of Burgundy. This campaign results in a disastrous defeat at Dormelles, forcing Chlothar to flee the battlefield and marking a significant setback in the Frankish civil wars.

1. The War Between Neustria and Austrasia-Burgundy

• Following the death of Fredegund in 597, Chlothar II, then a teenager, is left to rule Neustria alone.
• His cousins, Theudebert II (Austrasia) and Theuderic II (Burgundy), both grandsons of Brunhilda, remain under her strong influence and seek to eliminate Chlothar as a rival.
• The tensions between Neustria and the Austrasian-Burgundian alliance escalate into open warfare, culminating in the Battle of Dormelles.

2. The Battle of Dormelles (c. 600 CE)

• Dormelles, located near Sens in modern France, becomes the site of a decisive confrontation between the forces of Chlothar II and the combined armies of Theudebert II and Theuderic II.
• Theudebert and Theuderic’s forces overwhelm Chlothar’s army, inflicting a crushing defeat on Neustria.
• Chlothar is forced to flee the battlefield, avoiding capture but suffering a major loss of territory and prestige.

3. The Aftermath: Neustria in Crisis

• Following the battle, Chlothar II loses significant territory, as Austrasia and Burgundy extend their control into Neustria.
• The victory strengthens the power of Brunhilda, as her grandsons tighten their grip over the Frankish kingdom.
• Chlothar is left weakened and on the defensive, struggling to maintain his authority.

4. Long-Term Consequences and the Road to Revenge

• Though defeated in 600, Chlothar II survives the political turmoil and bides his time.
• In 610 CE, the rivalry between Theudebert II and Theuderic II escalates into a fratricidal war, weakening their alliance.
• Eventually, in 613 CE, Chlothar II seizes his chance, defeating his cousins and capturing and executing Brunhilda, bringing an end to the civil war and reunifying the Frankish kingdom under his rule.

Conclusion: A Temporary Defeat in a Long Struggle

The Battle of Dormelles (c. 600 CE) is a major defeat for Chlothar II, forcing him into temporary retreat and submission. However, the civil war among his cousins will later allow him to turn the tide, culminating in his ultimate victory in 613 CE, when he becomes the sole ruler of the Frankish kingdom.