Well, we've been learning a little about our surrounding culture, as I was saying yesterday. We've heard from a few people who seem to know a little about Shrove Tuesday, and I've since looked up some info about it myself. Apparently, the word “shrove” is connected with the tradition (among people who need the gospel) of confessing one's sins and receiving absolution for them on the eve of Ash Wednesday, to begin the season of Lent. This practice of confessing one's sins was called “shriving.”
So what about the pancakes? Strangely enough, this is where IHOP originally got its name – International House of Penitence. Just kidding. 
Actually, since Shrove Tuesday is the last day before Lent, this was the day that everyone tried to use up some of the more indulgent foods they weren't supposed to eat during the 40 days of Lent and which would not keep during that time either. So, they would use the fats, eggs, and milk, add a little flour, and feast on pancakes. Obviously, at this point in British culture, the confession and absolution part has gone by the wayside, but the pancake thing has remained. To be honest, I didn't notice anyone raving about their pancakes yesterday, and haven't noticed anyone with ashes on his forehead today, for that matter. But at least we know now what people are talking about when they refer to “pancake day.” Here is a little more information if you are interested.
25 Feb 2009
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