Publisher's Synopsis
""The Last Man"" is a science fiction novel written by Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley, the author of the famous novel ""Frankenstein"". The book was first published in 1826 and tells the story of a man named Lionel Verney, who is the last survivor of the human race in a post-apocalyptic world. The story is set in the late 21st century, where a deadly plague has wiped out most of humanity, leaving only a few survivors. Lionel Verney, the protagonist, is one of the survivors who has managed to survive the plague. He travels across Europe, witnessing the collapse of civilization and the rise of new societies. Throughout the novel, Lionel faces numerous challenges, including the loss of loved ones, the breakdown of social order, and the struggle to find meaning in a world that has lost its humanity. He meets other survivors, including the last king of England, who is also searching for a purpose in this new world. The novel is a reflection on the human condition, exploring themes of mortality, love, and the struggle for survival. It is also a commentary on the political and social issues of Shelley's time, including the rise of industrialization and the threat of authoritarianism. ""The Last Man"" is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that has been praised for its vivid descriptions of a post-apocalyptic world and its exploration of timeless themes. It is considered one of Shelley's most important works and a classic of science fiction literature.At another time we were haunted for several days by an apparition, to which our people gave the appellation of the Black Spectre. We never saw it except at evening, when his coal black steed, his mourning dress, and plume of black feathers, had a majestic and awe-striking appearance; his face, one said, who had seen it for a moment, was ashy pale; he had lingered far behind the rest of his troop, and suddenly at a turn in the road, saw the Black Spectre coming towards him.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.