Uriah Heep (David Copperfield)

Uriah Heep is a fictional character in Charles Dickens' novel David Copperfield (1850). He is portrayed as a young man of humble origins, characterized by his obsequious and manipulative behavior, which masks a calculating and ambitious nature.

Heep works as a clerk for Mr. Wickfield, a lawyer and Agnes Wickfield's father. He consistently emphasizes his "humility," frequently claiming to be "a very umble person." This feigned humility is a key aspect of his character and is used to disarm others and advance his own interests.

Throughout the novel, Uriah Heep schemes to gain power and influence within the Wickfield household, ultimately manipulating Mr. Wickfield's alcoholism and financial instability to gain control of his business and Agnes's life. He aims to marry Agnes, further solidifying his position and social standing.

Heep is generally disliked by the other characters in the novel, who see through his false humility and recognize his underlying malevolence. David Copperfield is particularly repulsed by him.

Ultimately, Uriah Heep's schemes are exposed by Mr. Micawber, who reveals Heep's fraudulent activities and misappropriation of funds. Heep is then brought to justice and imprisoned for his crimes.

Uriah Heep is considered a significant character in Dickens' work, representing themes of hypocrisy, social climbing, and the dangers of unchecked ambition. His name has become synonymous with false humility and manipulative behavior.