The Early Life of James VI: A Long Apprenticeship, 1566-1585

James VI was the first king of a united Great Britain and a successful ruler of the Stewart Dynasty in Scotland. This book is the first in-depth scholarly study of his formative years, exploring when he seized political power and the steps he took along the way. It also examines the impact of the Reformation on the monarchy of early modern Europe and the cultural activity at his early court.

Format: Hardback
Length: 448 pages
Publication date: 09 March 2023
Publisher: John Donald Publishers Ltd

James VI, the first king of a united Great Britain, was undoubtedly the most successful ruler of the Stewart Dynasty in Scotland. His remarkable ability as a monarch has often been attributed to his Scottish upbringing. This captivating book marks the inaugural in-depth scholarly exploration of those formative years. It endeavors to unravel the precise timing of James' ascent to political power and trace the gradual steps he took along the way. Furthermore, it presents fresh perspectives on crucial questions such as his relationship with his mother, Mary Queen of Scots, his preference for his kinsman Esmé Stuart, Duke of Lennox, which ultimately threatened his throne, and the discernible pattern of intent in the alliances he formed with various factions at court between 1578 and 1585. Moreover, this book serves as an insightful case study of the profound impact of the Reformation on the monarchy of early modern Europe, while also delving into the cultural activities that flourished during James' early reign.

Weight: 772g
Dimension: 242 x 164 x 38 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781910900185