What is the name of the 'umble clerk in David Copperfield?

The “umble clerk” in David Copperfield is Uriah Heep. He works as a clerk for Mr. Wickfield, David's friend Agnes's father, and repeatedly describes himself as “umble” while pursuing influence and power.

Uriah's exaggerated humility is a disguise for intense ambition and manipulation. He notices that the widowed Wickfield has developed a drinking problem, encourages it, and then exploits his employer's guilt and confusion. By maneuvering himself into a partnership, Heep gains control of the law office and tries to force Agnes into marriage.

David, Tommy Traddles, and Wilkins Micawber eventually expose Heep's fraud. Micawber is especially important because Heep assumes that financial dependence will prevent him from speaking out. The scheme collapses, and Heep is compelled to resign and return stolen money. Later, he is imprisoned for bank fraud but remains vindictive beneath his apparent repentance.

The character's name became associated with a flatterer or sycophant. Dickens published David Copperfield in serial form beginning in 1849, and the novel itself appeared in book form in 1850. The rock band Uriah Heep later borrowed its name from this character.