Austen writes her novels in a way in which she develops the understanding of society to her readers. Society, behaviour and expectations of those within society. The women portrayed in both novels are presented differently, albeit a few similarities. The heroines are defiant to society's behaviour and expectations as they purposely choose not to marry when asked. The status and education of women is a subject that Austen also indulges in. Generally, a woman could not better herself financially without marriage as the only ways to earn money were as a governess or in trade, something that was frowned upon amongst upper classes. So it was expected that would marry for money. Middle-class women as Austen portrays them, were dependant on their father and later their marriage for their livelihood:

`marriage was as much a business as a matter of the heart'

Women were expected in society to...