Lessons for the 21st century from a 200-year-old book by ‘Frankenstein’ author Mary Shelley
This article from The Conversation explores Mary Shelley's 1826 novel "The Last Man," which depicts a lethal global pandemic, drawing parallels to contemporary issues like COVID-19, wars, and climate change. It highlights the book's enduring influence on the post-apocalyptic fiction genre, comparing its themes to Shelley's "Frankenstein" and modern works like "The Last of Us" and "I Am Legend." The author recommends reading the novel for its continued relevance.
Why it matters
The article connects classic literature to pressing modern global challenges, demonstrating how historical narratives can offer insights into human responses to crises and the enduring power of storytelling in shaping cultural understanding of existential threats.
What if there was just one person left on the planet? David Wall/Moment via Getty Images Lessons for the 21st century from a 200‑year‑old book by ‘Frankenstein’ author Mary Shelley Published: September 23, 2026 8:44am EDT https://theconversation.com/lessons-for-the-21st-century-from-a-200-year-old-book-by-frankenstein-author-mary-shelley-291926 https://theconversation.com/lessons-for-the-21st-century-from-a-200-year-old-book-by-frankenstein-author-mary-shelley-291926 Link copied Share article Share article
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Even if you have never read it, you know the story of Mary Shelley’s second great work of political science fiction after “Frankenstein.” “ The Last Man ,” published in 1826 but set in the late 21st century, tells the tale of a lethal contagion spread by human conflict and war that sweeps the world and seemingly leaves one sole human survivor.
With wars and climate catastrophes hitting a world still reeling from 7 million deaths caused by COVID-19 , Shelley’s pandemic novel has perhaps never felt so relevant.
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