Final answer:
The 18th-century Russian leader known as "The Great" is Catherine the Great, who expanded the Russian Empire and implemented political reforms.
Step-by-step explanation:
The 18th-century female Russian leader referred to as "The Great" is Catherine the Great, Empress Catherine II of Russia. She was an enlightened despot who maintained an authoritarian rule, while espousing the ideals of social contract theory. Catherine the Great expanded the Russian Empire significantly, with her reign being characterized by political reforms, cultural development, and territorial expansion such as the acquisition of lands on the Baltic and Black seas and into Central Asia. This contrasted with the military conquests and empire-building of Alexander the Great, another historical figure celebrated for his incredible military strategy and leadership, who conquered the Persian Empire and was tutored by Aristotle. The choice F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby" is not applicable as it is a work of American literature, and not a historical figure.