The theme of women's status and societal expectations placed on women is a significant element in 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen. 

1. Limited Opportunities:

In the early 19th century English society depicted in the novel, women had limited opportunities for education, employment, and independence. Their primary role was seen as marriage and the management of a household.

The Bennet sisters' lack of dowries and their father's lack of a male heir create a sense of urgency for them to secure suitable marriages to ensure financial security.

2. Marital Prospects:

A woman's social and financial status often depended on her ability to make a good marriage. Characters like Mrs. Bennet are fixated on marrying off their daughters to wealthy and respectable men.

The novel illustrates the pressure on women to find husbands and the consequences of not doing so, as seen in the character of Charlotte Lucas, who marries Mr. Collins for practical reasons.

3. Female Agency and Independence:

Elizabeth Bennet is depicted as an independent and intelligent woman who values her autonomy. Her refusal of Mr. Collins's proposal and her eventual choice of Mr. Darcy are based on her personal principles and preferences.

Jane Bennet, although more reserved than Elizabeth, also values her own agency in love and marriage. Her relationship with Mr. Bingley demonstrates the importance of a woman's consent in her own marriage.

4. Societal Expectations:

The novel portrays the societal expectations placed on women, including the need to be well-mannered, accomplished, and attractive to potential suitors.

Lady Catherine de Bourgh embodies the idea of an entitled and domineering woman who expects others to conform to her expectations.

5. Gender Roles:

Gender roles are clearly defined in the novel, with women expected to be submissive, genteel, and focused on domestic matters, while men hold positions of authority and provide for their families.

Mrs. Bennet's obsession with marrying off her daughters reflects the pressure women faced to fulfill traditional gender roles.

6. Critique of Social Norms:

Austen uses her novel to critique the societal norms that limited women's opportunities and relegated them to a secondary role. She satirizes characters like Mr. Collins and Lady Catherine, who represent the extremes of the traditional gender expectations.

7. Female Friendship and Support:

The novel also highlights the importance of female friendship and support. Elizabeth and Jane's close relationship demonstrates the strength that can be derived from sisterhood.

8. Elizabeth Bennet's Independence:

Elizabeth Bennet stands out as a character who challenges the expectations of her society. Her refusal of Mr. Collins's proposal and her eventual choice of Mr. Darcy reflect her desire for a marriage based on love and mutual respect.

In 'Pride and Prejudice,' Jane Austen offers a complex exploration of women's status and the societal constraints placed on them during her time. Through characters like Elizabeth Bennet, she champions the idea of women as individuals with agency and the capacity to make choices that align with their principles and desires. The novel critiques the limitations placed on women while celebrating those who break free from traditional gender roles and expectations.