"The Last Man" is a novel written by Mary Shelley, published in 1826. It is set in a dystopian future where humanity faces extinction due to a devastating plague. The story follows Lionel Verney, the titular last man, as he navigates a world filled with loss, despair, and the remnants of civilization. The novel explores themes of isolation, survival, and the impact of societal collapse. It reflects Shelley's concerns about the future of humanity and the consequences of unchecked progress. As Verney witnesses the decline of society, he grapples with his own existence and the meaning of life in a world devoid of hope.