Margaret H. B. Sanderson

This is a great study of a lesser known historical figure during a tumultuous period. Sanderson does an excellent job of laying the scene for David Beaton - she demonstrates a clear understanding of how the pre-Reformation Scottish church functioned and places Beaton among his peers in Scotland and France while also acknowledging the larger historical trends such as the Protestant Reformation and problems of the Scottish monarchy. Sanderson traces the career of David Beaton from his beginnings as a member of a large noble family to his ascent to the primary role in the Scottish church and to the role of cardinal with a place in Scottish politics both at home and abroad.… (altro)