In the late 6th century Gundovald, a Frank of royal blood, returned from a lengthy exile in Italy and Constantinople to establish a "regnum" in the south western part of Gaul. His half-brother, Guntram, who ruled the neighbouring Burgundian region, vigorously opposed this intrusion. In this narrative, Bernard Bachrach provides a re-interpretation of the dramatic attempt by Gundovald to succeed to the Merovingian throne with the help of the Byzantine Empire. Gundovald, a Merovingian prince, was rejected by his father, King Chlotar l, and declared not to be of royal blood. His association with the Byzantine Empire led Guntram to regard him as an "imperial puppet". In addition to examining the highly controversial diplomatic machinations behind Gundovald's bid for power, Bachrach gives a thorough assessment of the strategy, tactics, and military technology of the "little war" fought between Gundovald's supporters and the armies of King Guntram. This conflict ended with the siege of the old Roman fortress city of Convenae in the foothills of the Pyrenees.
- ISBN10 0813314925
- ISBN13 9780813314921
- Publish Date 19 February 1995
- Publish Status Out of Print
- Out of Print 11 October 2009
- Publish Country US
- Publisher Taylor & Francis Inc
- Imprint Westview Press Inc
- Format Hardcover
- Pages 283
- Language English