What is the name of the 40-day period before Easter?

Lent is a significant period in the Christian calendar, observed by many denominations, including Anglicans, Catholics, and Methodists. It's a time of reflection, repentance, and spiritual preparation for Easter. The 40 days represent the time Jesus spent fasting in the desert, resisting temptation. Historically, Lent developed gradually in the early Church, becoming more formalized by the 4th century. The focus is often on self-denial, giving up certain luxuries or habits as a form of sacrifice and self-discipline. This can involve abstaining from specific foods, like meat, or dedicating more time to prayer and charitable acts. So, while the Easter holiday itself is a celebration, Lent is the 40-day period *leading up to* that celebration, making it the correct answer. The other options are simply not related to this specific religious observance.