The MERLIN series is designed to provide introductions to key periods of Scottish history. It is suitable for the older child or the adult who wants a basic understanding of a period. A narrative is based around a main character used to illuminate the life and times in which he or she lived. James IV was one of Scotland's greatest kings. His reign saw the full flowering of the Renaissance in Scotland - in architecture, in literature and in art. For a brief period, Scotland ranked amoung the great powers of Europe. This volume details both the James' reign and the vibrancy of Scottish life and culture of the time. It acknowledges the importance of the Highlands in Scottish life (James was the last Gaelic-speaking monarch of Scotland). The final section deals with the growing tensions with England, leading up to the terrible battle of Flodden, which brought so brutal an end to Scotland's golden age.