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Cover of The Last Two Alive!

The Last Two Alive!

Written by Alfred Coppel

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Science FictionMan-woman relationshipsBiological warfare

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About this book

"The Last Two Alive!" by Alfred Coppel is a science fiction novel written during the early 1950s. The story unfolds in a galaxy ruled by the tyrannical Tetrarchy of the Thirty Suns, exploring themes of rebellion, tyranny, and the impact of war on civilization. The narrative centers on Aram Jerrold, a rebel officer, and his journey through political intrigue and existential struggle as he and a companion attempt to save something vital from the impending destruction of their civilization. The plot begins with Aram Jerrold facing a death sentence for treason after an ill-fated rebellion against the government. Throughout the story, he grapples with betrayal, particularly from Deve Jennet, a woman he once loved and who has ties to the oppressive regime. As they navigate the treacherous political landscape, they uncover a horrific plan by Provincial Governor Santane to unleash biological weaponry that could devastate their galaxy. Coppel weaves a tale of survival and the fight against tyranny, culminating in a desperate confrontation with Santane as a full-blown galactic war looms. Ultimately, the narrative explores humanity's resilience and the cost of power, leaving readers pondering the fate of civilization amidst chaos.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in The Last Two Alive!, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • intermediate
  • dark
  • tense
  • rebellious

Alfred Coppel's "The Last Two Alive!" plunges readers into a tyrannical galactic empire, the Tetrarchy of the Thirty Suns, where rebellion is met with brutal suppression. The narrative follows Aram Jerrold, a rebel officer condemned to death, as he navigates a treacherous landscape of political conspiracy and personal betrayal. Alongside a companion, Aram uncovers a horrifying plot by Governor Santane to unleash biological weapons, threatening to annihilate their civilization. The story explores humanity's fight for survival against overwhelming odds, culminating in a desperate struggle amidst a looming galactic war, forcing characters to confront the true cost of power and the resilience of the human spirit.

“"Freedom is not a gift, but a perpetual battle against the indifference of the galaxy."”

Key themes

Rebellion vs. Tyranny
This is the central conflict of the novel, exploring the brutal oppression of the Tetrarchy of the Thirty Suns against the desperate efforts of rebels like Aram Jerrold. It delves into the motivations for rebellion, the costs of resistance, and the mechanisms by which totalitarian regimes maintain power.
The Impact and Cost of War
The novel profoundly explores the devastating consequences of conflict, from political suppression to full-blown galactic warfare and the terrifying prospect of biological annihilation. It examines the ethical dilemmas posed by advanced weaponry and the toll war takes on individuals and civilization.
Resilience and Survival
Despite overwhelming odds and the constant threat of annihilation, the novel showcases humanity's enduring capacity to survive, adapt, and fight for its existence. It explores the spirit of defiance and the will to live against a backdrop of impending destruction.

Worth discussing

How does the novel explore the nature of tyranny and the various forms it takes within the Tetrarchy?

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