Scotland Re-formed, 1488-1587

Exploring the transformative years of 1488-1587, Scotland Re-formed offers new insights into the interplay of church and crown in shaping Scottish history.

In Scotland Re-formed, 1488-1587, Jane Dawson explores the intricate tapestry of Scottish political life during the long sixteenth century. Beginning with the accession of James IV and culminating with the execution of Mary, Queen of Scots, the narrative is enriched by local and regional perspectives that provide a comprehensive view of the era. Dawson expertly interweaves the experiences of individual Scots with the overarching dynamics of the royal court, illustrating how these elements shaped the course of Scottish history.

The book delves into the transformative relationship between church and crown, highlighting how these institutions converged and diverged, ultimately altering the nature of governance in Scotland. The emergence of the feuars, new landholders who became pivotal to rural society, marks a significant societal shift. The Reformation Crisis of 1559-60 is a focal point, as it established a Protestant Kirk that would influence Scottish life for centuries to come, while also signaling a diplomatic revolution that redefined Scotland's place within the British Isles.

Despite the upheaval, Scotland Re-formed reveals that many aspects of life in 1587 remained rooted in traditions from 1488. Dawson's distinctive regional approach and integration of visual culture enrich the reader's understanding of this complex period, making it an essential resource for anyone interested in the evolution of Scottish identity and governance during the Renaissance and Reformation.