Melodrama, Modernism & Myth: A Literature Quiz Deck from The New York Public Library

This deck of 48 Knowledge Cards will make a perfect gift for a forgetful English major, or can perhaps serve as an enjoyable pocket-sized education for the solitary autodidact, or even as a challenging Q&A literary workout for two or more players. One side of each card describes an unnamed literary concept, movement, or device; the other side reveals the correct term, along with a concise definition, examples, and contextual notes (e.g., Front: "A pithy, witty expression in poetry or prose"; Back: "EPIGRAM / From Greek: `inscription' ..."). As a thumbnail reference, Melodrama, Modernism & Myth is a welcome addition to any library; as a game, it is guaranteed to light up any gathering of literature lovers.

Sample Clue: A narrative element needed to motivate a plot, but insignificant in itself.

Answer: MacGuffin--The term is often associated with the work of Alfred Hitchcock, whose films frequently turn on such a device.