The best summary of the central idea is Women have been used throughout history as spies and have brought about significant change through their work. The correct answer is option C.
The central idea of the text is that women have been used as spies throughout history and have had a significant impact on the fate of nations. This is supported by the title, "Queens of the Spy World Whose Intrigues Sway the Fate of Nations," which suggests that female spies have played a powerful role in shaping history.
The text does not mention anything about legends or their accuracy, so option A can be ruled out.
Option B states that female espionage is a relatively new concept, but the text does not support this idea. Instead, it implies that women have been involved in espionage throughout history, so option B is incorrect.
Option D states that espionage is not as exciting or dangerous as we think, but the text does not provide any information to support this claim. Therefore, option D can be eliminated.
Therefore, the best summary of the central idea is option C: Women have been used throughout history as spies and have brought about significant change through their work.
Overall, the text emphasizes the important role that female spies have played in the world of espionage, highlighting their influence on the course of nations. This suggests that their work goes beyond day-to-day conversations and involves intricate intrigues and high-stakes actions.
The complete question could be
Queens of the Spy World Whose Intrigues Sway the Fate of Nations
1. PART A: Which of the following statements best summarizes a central idea of the text?
A. There are several legends about female spies, though most of them are untrue or conflated.
B. Female espionage is a relatively new concept and tool in modern warfare.
C. Women have been used throughout history as spies and have brought about significant change through their work.
D. Espionage is not as exciting or constantly dangerous as we might think it is; most of it involves day-to-day conversations.