As the poor struggled for sustenance in the early Renaissance, their higher-ups fought for wealth and power, and kings competed with displays of prosperity, technological innovation, production of male heirs, and attempts to achieve lasting fame and eternal protection for their souls. Historian Goodwin sets the stage for the bloodiest and biggest Anglo-Scottish battle, which was a long time in the making and produced extraordinary consequences. Active leadership in battle was expected by James's people and he was killed, while Henry reaped the benefits of victory in absentia. James IV's loss was attributed to the weather and the supernatural, among other things, but history claims human agency as the likely reason. In 21 chapters the author describes the battle and elucidates the past as prologue and the future as epilogue. While most everyone knows what happened to Henry VIII, fewer know that James's much diminished remains lie today under a pub in London. This fascinating and very readable book is not just for historians, but the intelligent general reader as well. There are 16 pages of color photographs, commemoration, a select list of Flodden-related organizations and places to visit, notes, and select bibliography. Annotation ©2013 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com) Read Less