Description

Meet Uriah Heep in chapter 17 of Charles Dickens’ David Copperfield (1850), as illustrated in dialogue with the young David by Fred Barnard (1870). In the complex class politics of this novel, the envious Uriah sees David as a privileged young snob. Heep is studying law in order to try to better his income and social position. Without knowledge of Latin, the mark of an educated gentleman and much used in legal discourse, it is difficult for him to achieve his dreams of self-improvement. David offers to teach him Latin. Heep refuses: ‘Oh, thank you, Master Copperfield,’ he answered, shaking his head. ‘I am sure it’s very kind of you to make the offer, but I am much too umble to accept it.’ ‘What nonsense, Uriah!’  ‘Oh, indeed you must excuse me, Master Copperfield! I am greatly obliged, and I should like it of all things, I assure you; but I am far too umble. There are people enough to tread upon me in my lowly state, without my doing outrage to their feelings by possessing learning. Learning ain’t for me. A person like myself had better not aspire. If he is to get on in life, he must get on umbly, Master Copperfield!’