As "the last man," Lionel Verney is witness to a plague that destroys mankind in the last days of the twenty-first century. As part of the English ruling elite, Lionel and his family are able to escape the epidemic, but as their numbers dwindle, Lionel is eventually left alone to ponder both his fate and that of the world he knew.

First published in 1826, The Last Man is notable for author Mary Shelley's fictional portrayals of her late husband, Percy Bysshe Shelley, and their close friend, Lord Byron. The novel's apocalyptic setting provided the backdrop for Shelley to explore themes of selfishness and brutality alongside of loyalty and love.

HarperPerennial Classics brings great works of literature to life in digital format, upholding the highest standards in ebook production and celebrating reading in all its forms. Look for more titles in the HarperPerennial Classics collection to build your digital library.