The Major Arcana is the term used to describe the first 22 cards of the tarot deck.  These 22 cards represent the 22 major challenges one will face throughout their life.  The cards work from beginning to end in that the first card signifies the initial push or motivation to start something new whereas the last card represents a conclusion or a completion of a current circle or cycle of life.  It is wholly possible to do a reading only using these major influences, however it is suggested that beginners and those new to the tarot study both the major and minor arcana to help get a full picture of what the tarot has to offer.  Listed below are links to the meanings of the entire major arcana.  Each card has both upright and reversed meanings but keep in mind that some readers disregard reversed meanings altogether.