I Am Legend by Richard Matheson is widely praised for its gripping narrative and innovative take on the vampire genre. Readers commend Matheson's ability to create tension and evoke emotional depth. However, some critique its pacing and character development. Overall, it remains a seminal work in horror fiction, influencing numerous adaptations and imitations.

A reader who enjoys I Am Legend by Richard Matheson likely appreciates gripping tales of survival and psychological horror. Fans of Stephen King's The Stand or Max Brooks' World War Z would find Matheson's post-apocalyptic world and exploration of isolation compelling and thought-provoking.

In I Am Legend by Richard Matheson, Robert Neville is the last human man in a post-apocalyptic world where a contagious disease causes people to behave like vampires. He fortifies his home, hunts the infected, and conducts scientific research to understand the disease. His life becomes a solitary struggle until he encounters a woman named Ruth, leading to unexpected revelations. The book depicts death by suicide, as well as mentions of suicidal ideation and sexual assault throughout the novel.

Dark / Mysterious / Suspenseful / Melancholic / Unnerving

Richard Matheson

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Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore I Am Legend and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

I Am Legend Summary and Study Guide

Background

I Am Legend Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “January 1976”

Part 1, Chapters 1-5

I Am Legend Part 1, Chapters 1-5 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “March 1976”

Part 2, Chapters 6-10

I Am Legend Part 2, Chapters 6-10 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 11-14

I Am Legend Part 2, Chapters 11-14 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “June 1978”

Part 3, Chapters 15-19

I Am Legend Part 3, Chapters 15-19 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “January 1979”

Part 4, Chapters 20-21

I Am Legend Part 4, Chapters 20-21 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

I Am Legend Character Analysis

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Themes

I Am Legend Themes

Symbols & Motifs

I Am Legend Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

I Am Legend Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

I Am Legend Essay Topics

I Am Legend

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read I Am Legend?

Reading Age

Book Details