Elevenses: The British Tradition of a Morning Snack or Light Meal

Introduction

The characters of the Hobbits in the Lord of the Rings films often ask about second breakfast and elevenses. Interestingly, while second breakfast is a fictional concept, elevenses is indeed a real and long-standing British tradition that highlights the cultural importance of taking a light snack or meal during the day.

The Origins and Evolution of Elevenses

Elevenses refers to a morning snack or light meal typically taken around 11 a.m., which consists of tea or coffee along with a small bite such as biscuits or pastries. This practice can be traced back to the British tradition of multiple meals throughout the day. The concept of elevenses is often associated with the idea of a break from work or daily activities. Although the practice is not as common today, the term and its associated cultural significance still hold a place in British society, often evoking a sense of nostalgia for simpler times.

Historical Context and Literary References

The concept of elevenses is not just a modern creation but one that has been around for decades. It is mentioned in various British literary works, including the notable The Lord of the Rings series by J.R.R. Tolkien. In the novels, Hobbits take elevenses, further cementing the idea in popular culture. Some commenters note that the term and practice dates back even further, influencing the second breakfast tradition in The Lord of the Rings.

Regional Variations and Cultural Significance

The practice of elevenses varies regionally, and it is often associated with specific occupational and even familial contexts. For instance, a respondent shares their experience growing up on a farm, where elevenses was an essential part of the day. In this setting, meal schedules were spaced out due to the nature of agricultural work. Similarly, an ex-serviceman describes their experience in the British Army, where there were specific Naafi breaks or Navy, Army, Air Force breaks, which were analogous to elevenses in the civilian context.

Modern Day Practices and Nostalgia

Despite the diminishing ubiquity of elevenses, the term and practice continue to hold a cultural significance. Nancy mentions that the phrase elevenses was commonly used by her grandparents, highlighting the traditional aspects of the practice even in the modern era. The custom of elevenses in the British context often evokes a sense of nostalgia for simpler times and traditional British culture. Similarly, the former farmhand recalls their experience on the farm, where elevenses was a crucial meal between the early morning and midday.

Conclusion

In summary, elevenses, while not a common practice today, remains a cherished and nostalgic part of British culture. The tradition of taking a light snack or meal during the day highlights the British approach to balancing work and rest. The mentions of elevenses in literary works such as The Lord of the Rings serve to reinforce its cultural significance, and its various regional variations underscore the diverse cultural landscape of the United Kingdom.