The Last Man by Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley is a dystopian novel written in the early 19th century that explores themes of isolation, loss, and humanity’s struggle to survive in the face of an apocalyptic pandemic. The protagonist, Lionel Verney, comes to recognize his unique position within a collapsing society as he seeks survival alongside his sister Perdita and the young noble Adrian, the Earl of Windsor. The novel begins in Naples, with Lionel reflecting on his past, recounting his family lineage, conflicts, and complex relationships with those around him in a calm, introspective tone. In the early chapters, Lionel’s relationship with Adrian is depicted, revealing the contrasting worldviews of the two, which play a crucial role in Lionel’s development and foreshadow the conflicts to come in an ever-changing world. As the characters confront their pasts and ambitions, themes of friendship, loyalty, and existential despair unfold against a backdrop of an uncertain future.

VOL. I.
INTRODUCTION.

CHAPTER I.
CHAPTER II.
CHAPTER III.
CHAPTER IV.
CHAPTER IV.
CHAPTER V.
CHAPTER VI.
CHAPTER VII.
CHAPTER VIII.
CHAPTER IX.
CHAPTER X.

VOL. II.
CHAPTER I.
CHAPTER II.
CHAPTER III.
CHAPTER IV.
CHAPTER V.
CHAPTER VI.
CHAPTER VII.
CHAPTER VIII.
CHAPTER IX.

VOL. III.
CHAPTER I.
CHAPTER II.
CHAPTER III.
CHAPTER IV.
CHAPTER V.
CHAPTER VI.
CHAPTER VII.
CHAPTER VIII.
CHAPTER IX.
CHAPTER X.