[1] The play takes place in Attila's camp, which Corneille locates in Noricum.
Despite his defeat in Catalonia, Attila managed to conclude treaties with emperor Valentinian III and with Merovech; prospective marriages were mentioned and the two concerned princesses visited Atila's camp.
In the beginning of the play, Attila is undecided between Merovech's and Valentinian's sisters, Ildione and Honorie.
After a variety of events, involving love, politics and death threats, Attila is furious at Honorie, Valamir and Ardaric.
He decides to marry Ildione, but dies from hemorrhage before the beginning of their wedding ceremony.