Meaning: The quote "We are so very 'umble" is a famous line from Charles Dickens' novel "David Copperfield." The quote is spoken by the character Uriah Heep, who is known for his false humility and obsequious behavior. This particular phrase has become iconic as a representation of Heep's insincere humility and his manipulative nature.

In the novel, Uriah Heep is portrayed as a cunning and deceitful character who feigns modesty and humbleness to gain the trust and sympathy of others, particularly his employer, Mr. Wickfield. Heep's constant repetition of the phrase "I am so very 'umble" is a reflection of his calculated attempts to appear unassuming and deferential while harboring ambitious and self-serving intentions.

The use of the word "umble" instead of "humble" in the quote is significant as it reflects Heep's affected manner of speech, which is intended to convey a sense of false modesty and servility. This deliberate mispronunciation of the word "humble" serves as a linguistic device to emphasize Heep's disingenuous nature and his propensity for manipulation.

Heep's character and his infamous declaration of being "so very 'umble" have made a lasting impression on readers and have come to symbolize the concept of insincere humility and self-serving behavior. The quote serves as a reminder of the dangers of trusting individuals who use false modesty as a means of achieving their own ends.

Charles Dickens, known for his keen observation of human nature and his portrayal of complex characters, crafted Uriah Heep as a compelling antagonist whose outward displays of humility mask his true nature. Through Heep's character, Dickens adeptly critiques the hypocritical and manipulative tendencies that can exist within human interactions, shedding light on the pitfalls of naively accepting professed humility at face value.

The enduring relevance of the quote "We are so very 'umble" lies in its portrayal of the deceptive nature of false humility and its cautionary message about the potential for individuals to exploit others through disingenuous displays of modesty. As such, the quote continues to resonate with readers and remains a notable example of literary characterization that exposes the complexities of human behavior and social dynamics.

In conclusion, the quote "We are so very 'umble" from Charles Dickens' novel "David Copperfield" encapsulates the artifice of false humility embodied by the character Uriah Heep. Through this memorable phrase, Dickens offers a compelling portrayal of the dangers inherent in trusting individuals who employ insincere displays of modesty for their own gain. The quote serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring relevance of Dickens' astute observations of human nature and the complexities of interpersonal relationships.