Discuss the view that Shakespeare's construction of Desdemona is the antithesis of a female archetype during the Jacobean era.

During the Jacobean era women were often viewed as property of men whether it be their father or husband that they belong to. However, Desdemona's decision to marry Othello and "deceive her Father" presents to the audience an independent and "bold" woman; qualities that would be deemed as unacceptable by society at the time. Shakespeare's construction of Desdemona has an ambiguous meaning- whilst her actions may appear as the antithesis of a female archetype, her downfall highlights the consequences for a woman who goes against expectations. The moral enigma here suggests that ultimately women will lose if they choose to fight against their innocent, naive and timid stereotypes.