I am a little bit awestruck at the size and complexity of the Talmud. I would like to study it a bit and gain a generalized understanding but I am at a loss as to where to begin.

I am approaching this as an curious layman, not a professional and not somebody who will devote his entire life to this, but somebody who wants to have a basic idea of what it's all about.

Any advice or links would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.