In Charles Dickens' David Copperfield, which of the following characters is an example of a cruel and manipulative figure?

Correct option is A

Explanation:

In David Copperfield, Uriah Heep is the novel's primary antagonist and one of Charles Dickens' most memorable villains. He is a manipulative, scheming, and deceitful character who feigns humility while secretly plotting to ruin the lives of those around him. Throughout the novel, Uriah constantly expresses his "humility" but his true nature is far from humble—he is, in fact, a master of deception, using his fake modesty to manipulate others to gain power and control.

Uriah is particularly insidious in his dealings with the Wickfield family. He works his way into Mr. Wickfield's law practice, gaining his trust and eventually taking advantage of him by embezzling money. His primary goal is to marry Agnes Wickfield, despite his low social standing, and take control of the Wickfield family’s wealth and position. His behavior is an embodiment of Dickens' critique of the social system, which allows someone like Uriah, who pretends to be virtuous, to rise through dishonesty.

Uriah Heep’s character is an excellent representation of Dickens' theme of deceptive appearances versus true character, and his manipulation creates significant conflict in the novel.

Information Booster:

Charles Dickens (1812-1870) is considered one of the greatest novelists of the Victorian era, known for his social criticism, memorable characters, and rich storytelling.

His works often address social inequality, poverty, and the struggles of the working class.

David Copperfield is one of Dickens' most autobiographical novels.

• Written in 1849-50, it follows the life of David Copperfield, from his difficult childhood to his experiences as a young adult.
• The novel contains many of the typical themes found in Dickens' work, including class, social justice, personal redemption, and the corrupting influence of power.
  
• Dickens is praised for creating memorable and complex characters, and Uriah Heep stands out as one of the most memorable villains in English literature.
  
• David Copperfield is the coming-of-age story of David, a boy born into a poor family, who faces numerous trials, including the death of his father, mistreatment by his stepfather, and struggles with class and identity.
• Throughout his life, he encounters a wide range of characters, some kind-hearted and others malicious, such as Uriah Heep.
• Heep is a devious character who seeks to manipulate others to further his own ambitions, particularly targeting the Wickfield family.
  
• The novel explores David's growth, as he navigates these challenges and ultimately becomes a successful man, finding love and happiness with Agnes Wickfield.
• Through this story, Dickens paints a portrait of Victorian society and its inherent social injustices.
  
• David Copperfield is a bildungsroman (a coming-of-age novel) that also features elements of social realism. Dickens uses the novel to explore issues of personal development and moral growth, as well as to criticize social inequalities and injustices in Victorian society.
  
  
  

​Additional Knowledge:

Mr. Micawber: 

• Mr. Micawber is portrayed humorously in the novel. He is a good-natured but financially irresponsible character who is often in debt but has an innate optimism about life. His role in the novel is more comedic, and while he has his flaws, he is ultimately a beloved and sympathetic character.
  

Agnes Wickfield:

• Agnes is a kind, gentle, and virtuous character who plays a central role in David’s life. She represents the ideal of moral goodness and is a love interest for David. Her character stands in contrast to the villainous Uriah Heep. Agnes is a source of moral support for David.

Dora Spenlow:

• Dora, David’s first wife, is portrayed as a sweet, innocent, but somewhat naïve character. Her marriage to David is significant in his journey toward maturity. Dora's tragic fate allows David to grow emotionally.