Final answer:
The description of Mrs. Bennet in 'Pride and Prejudice' shows her as a flat character representing the societal view of marriage as women's path to security, a portrayal that contrasts with her more complex daughter Elizabeth and raises questions about women's roles.
Step-by-step explanation:
The character description of Mrs. Bennet in Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice reveals that she represents a particular societal attitude of her period regarding marriage as the essential means for a woman's social advancement and financial security. Austen intentionally characterizes Mrs. Bennet as a flat or static character who does not undergo significant development or have depth in personality. This stylistic choice serves to highlight the limitations placed on women during the time and encourages readers to scrutinize these societal norms more critically. By comparing the characterization of Elizabeth, a round and complex character, with that of her mother, Austen skillfully uses combinations of character types to create a successful narrative that both entertains and prompts reflection on women's roles and aspirations in society.