The Scottish poet and courtier Sir David Lyndsay (ca. 1485-1555) was probably the best-known Scottish poet from his death until the mid-18th century. He was widely credited with effecting the reformation of the Scottish Church.

David Lyndsay was the eldest son of Sir David Lyndsay of the Mount, a Scottish nobleman. Nothing is known of his youth, although his poetry suggests that he had a sound formal education. He first appears in court records as a participant in a play performed in 1511. In 1512 he was appointed "usher," or personal attendant, to the infant prince, who would become King James V. He later reminded the King in one of his poems of how he cared for him, played the lute for him, told him stories, and entertained him. In 1522 Lyndsay married Janet Douglas, a royal seamstress.

In 1524 young James fell under the control of the Queen Mother and...