HistoryExtra podcast The Merovingians: everything you wanted to know
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Jun 21, 2025 Professor James Palmer, an expert from the University of St Andrews and author of 'Merovingian Worlds', takes us deep into the fascinating reign of the Merovingians. He reveals how this Frankish dynasty cleverly wielded violence, myth, and even hair to assert power. Discover the intriguing role of King Clovis in shaping modern France and the symbolic importance of uncut hair in Merovingian kingship. Palmer also dives into scandalous tales of King Chilperic and Fredegund, showcasing a world rife with betrayal and political intrigue.
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Queens' Ruthless Rivalry Fuels Chaos
- Two queens, Brunhild and Fredegund, engaged in violent assassinations amid civil wars.
- Their rivalry intensified chaos with poisoning, conspiracies, and constant battles among the Merovingians.
Clotaire II Ends Civil Wars
- King Clotaire II united the fractured Merovingian kingdoms and ended civil wars.
- His achievement brought lasting stability, though less dramatic than previous violent eras.
Long Hair Symbolized Kingship
- Merovingian kings kept their hair long and uncut as a mark of kingship.
- Cutting a king's hair meant he lost power and could be sent to a monastery, symbolizing his removal from rule.
