"The Last Man" is a novel written by Mary Shelley, the author best known for "Frankenstein." Published in 1826, "The Last Man" is a work of science fiction and is considered one of the earliest examples of post-apocalyptic literature. The novel is set in the late 21st century and narrated by a character named Lionel Verney. It tells the story of a devastating global pandemic that wipes out most of the world's population. Lionel, seemingly the last surviving human, recounts the events leading up to the downfall of civilization and his experiences as the titular last man.