The Last Man (novel)

"The Last Man" is a science fiction novel by Mary Shelley, published in 1826, set in a future dystopian society. It follows Lionel Verney, who survives a devastating plague that wipes out humanity, exploring themes of loneliness, loss, and the fragility of civilization. The story delves into human resilience and the emergence of hope amid despair, portraying a world where civilization has collapsed, and the last remnants of mankind grapple with survival and meaning. Shelley combines elements of prophecy and philosophical reflection, making it a profound meditation on mortality and the transient nature of human achievement.