Mental Floss

LISTS



The 11th tablet of 'The Epic of Gilgamesh.'

These pieces of literature—from 'The Epic of Gilgamesh' to what is widely considered the first novel ever written—are some of the oldest in history.

Justine Johnston Hemmestad










Whether you're enjoying a bout of sunshine, enduring a sudden downpour, or suffering through a drought, the obscure corners of English have the word for you.

Paul Anthony Jones


Films like "Frances Ha" help capture the nuance and uniqueness of the Big Apple.

You don't have to be in the Big Apple to love these films set in New York City, like “Saturday Night Fever,” “Frances Ha,” and more.

Chris Wheatley


Gary Busey is "The Gingerdead Man" (2005).

Your drunk uncle has got nothing on an axe-wielding turkey, a gaggle of psychopathic Santas, or any other character you'll find in these holiday horror movies.

Kristin Hunt




Thomas Hardy and his beloved English countryside.

'Tess of the d'Urbervilles' author Thomas Hardy is best known for his novels of rural realism, but he started out as an architect.

Karin Crompton




Koalas might be cute, but they're definitely not bears.

From Chinese checkers and Panama hats to koala bears and king crabs, and beyond, these names aren't quite what they seem.

Paul Anthony Jones