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Frederic Eger
Frederic Eger, a seasoned journalist and filmmaker, with almost three decades of experience in world, science, tech, and space news.

Albag, Szenes, Carter: Spy Women Art of Endurance

Poster In Memoriam, Credit: Szenes Family - Kibbutz Sdot Yam (CC-BY) - Video credit: Uvda/Keshet 12

The Intersection of Reality and Fiction of Women Soldiers’ Art of Endurance

Amit Soussana, a hostage kidnapped to Gaza in October 2023, was freed in November 2021. She credits fellow captive Liri Albag with saving her life by convincing her captors that she was not an IDF officer. Soussana, 40, says the captors tortured and threatened her, bound her hands and legs together, and demanded she admit to being in the military. Albag managed to persuade them that Soussana wasn’t in the military, and when she returned, she said, “I don’t know if they would have killed me or not; as far as I’m concerned, you saved my life.” The recently released Israeli female soldier hostages told their families and friends that they showed Hamas that they would not be humiliated during the staged event the terror group had arranged for their handover. Israel’s security chiefs were concerned that Hamas had planned a grandiose propaganda event that might get out of control.

Women in Military and Espionage Roles.
Historically, women have played crucial roles in military and espionage contexts, often defying societal norms and expectations. From the battlefields of World War II to contemporary conflicts, women have demonstrated exceptional capabilities in combat, intelligence gathering, and psychological resilience. Their contributions have not only shaped military outcomes but have also paved the way for future generations of women in these fields. The unique skills that women bring to military and espionage roles often stem from their ability to adapt, communicate effectively, and maintain emotional intelligence under pressure.

Importance of Resilience and Adaptability.
Resilience and adaptability are paramount in the high-stakes environments of military operations and espionage. Women soldiers and spies often face challenges that require them to think critically and act decisively in the face of adversity. Their experiences highlight the importance of psychological fortitude and the ability to navigate complex social dynamics, both of which are essential for survival and success in these roles.

This post will explore notable case studies of women who exemplify these qualities, illustrating the unique skills they possess and the impact they have made in their respective fields.

Case Studies of Notable Women.
Amit Soussana and Liri Albag: A Contemporary Example.
In October 2023, Amit Soussana was kidnapped by Hamas-led terrorists during an attack on Kibbutz Nahal Oz. Over the course of her 477 days in captivity, she endured torture and psychological manipulation, with captors demanding she confess to being an Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) officer. Liri Albag, another captive, played a pivotal role in Soussana’s survival by convincing their captors of her innocence. This act of bravery not only saved Soussana’s life but also exemplified the critical importance of leadership and psychological resilience in extreme situations.

Leadership and Psychological Resilience.
Liri Albag emerged as a leader among the hostages, managing interactions with their captors and maintaining morale. Her ability to foster a sense of unity and hope among the group was crucial for their psychological well-being. The soldiers’ defiance against their captors upon their release, where they humorously requested to be spoken to in Arabic, demonstrated their mental fortitude and refusal to be broken by their experiences.

Hannah Szenes: The Poet and Soldier.
Hannah Szenes (1921-1944) was a remarkable Jewish soldier, poet, and symbol of bravery during World War II. Born in Budapest, Hungary, she immigrated to Mandatory Palestine in 1939 and became involved in the Zionist movement. She volunteered for the British Army during the war and joined the Special Operations Executive (SOE), a British organization that conducted espionage and sabotage against the Axis powers. Szenes was one of 37 Jewish recruits from Palestine trained as paratroopers to assist anti-Nazi forces in Europe and help rescue Jews facing deportation to death camps like Auschwitz.

In March 1944, Szenes parachuted into Yugoslavia but was captured shortly after crossing into Hungary. Despite being tortured, Szenes remained steadfast and refused to divulge information about her mission or her comrades. She was executed by firing squad in November 1944 at the age of 23. Her courage and resolve have made her a national hero in Israel, where her poetry and writings are celebrated.

Szenes’s legacy is preserved through her poetry, which reflects her experiences and emotions during a tumultuous period in history. Her works have become an integral part of Israeli culture, and she is commemorated in various ways, including streets named after her and memorials highlighting her contributions. Her courage and resolve have made her a national hero in Israel, where her poetry and writings continue to inspire generations, emphasizing courage in the face of adversity.

Szenes is commemorated in Israel through memorials and a newly established museum. The museum, located at Kibbutz Sdot Yam, features an audiovisual display detailing Szenes’ life, mission, and legacy. It also includes an exhibition about her fellow paratroopers who were killed during their mission and a monument from Budapest cemetery. Szenes was originally buried in a Jewish cemetery in Budapest after her execution by the Nazis, but her remains were brought to Israel in 1950 and interred in the military cemetery on Mount Herzl in Jerusalem. Her poetry and writings continue to resonate, with many streets and institutions named after her. Her legacy is vital in Israeli history and Jewish memory, and the museum aims to educate future generations about her life and the broader context of Jewish resistance during the Holocaust.

Szenes legacy is such that Agent Peggy Carter in the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s Agent draws inspiration from real-life figures like Hannah Szenes, both women share traits of resilience, courage, and commitment to fighting oppression. Both figures symbolize resilience against tyranny and the fight for justice.

Virginia Hall: “The Limping Lady”.
Virginia Hall Goillot, born on April 6, 1906, was a prominent American spy during World War II. She played a significant role in the Allied efforts against Nazi Germany through her work with the British Special Operations Executive (SOE) and the American Office of Strategic Services (OSS). Born into a wealthy family, she was educated at prestigious institutions and developed a passion for languages and adventure. However, her diplomacy career was halted after losing her left leg in a hunting accident.

Hall became a pioneering female agent for the SOE, arriving in Vichy France in August 1941 as the first woman to take up residence there. She organized resistance efforts, established the Heckler network in Lyon, and provided vital support to French resistance groups by supplying weapons and intelligence. Her remarkable ability to evade capture earned her the nickname “The Limping Lady” from the Gestapo.

In 1944, Hall returned to France as a wireless operator for the OSS, playing a crucial role in coordinating operations that aided the French Maquisards in their fight against German forces until the liberation of France in September 1944. Hall was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross (DSC) in 1945, making her the first civilian woman to receive this honor. After WWII, she continued her intelligence work with the CIA, facing discrimination as a woman within the agency.

Victoria Hall married Lieutenant Paul Gaston Goillot, also an OSS agent, and they lived quietly until her death in 1982. Her legacy as one of World War II’s most influential spies has been increasingly recognized, reflecting her pivotal role in shaping modern espionage practices. Virginia HalI, known for her exceptional skills in espionage and sabotage, therefore as one of the most effective female spies of the war likely inspired aspects of Peggy’s character, particularly her intelligence and tactical abilities.

Hedy Lamarr: The Inventor & The Hollywood Actress.
Hedy Lamarr, an Austrian-American actress and inventor, played a significant role in the Allied war effort during World War II. She co-invented a communication system for the U.S. Navy, which laid the groundwork for modern wireless communication. Lamarr’s story exemplifies how creativity and resilience can intersect to produce impactful innovations. Born to a Jewish family, Lamarr converted to Catholicism to marry her first husband, Fritz Mandl, who had Jewish ancestry. Lamarr was secretive about her Jewish identity, believing it would hinder her career. Her children were unaware of their mother’s Jewish background until later in life. Lamarr and composer George Antheil developed the groundbreaking “frequency hopping” communication system, which aimed to prevent radio jamming used to control torpedoes. They were awarded U.S. Patent No. 2,292,387 in 1942. Lamarr’s frequency-hopping concept laid the groundwork for future wireless communication technologies, including Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Her legacy intertwines Hollywood glamour with significant scientific achievement, illustrating how creativity can transcend traditional boundaries and impact various fields. Hedy Lamarr’s dual legacy as both a glamorous Hollywood star and a brilliant inventor reflects the multifaceted nature of Peggy Carter, who balances her roles as a spy and a leader in S.H.I.E.L.D.

Female Soldiers & Spy Characters in Fiction.
Agent Carter in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Peggy Carter, a character created by Stan Lee in the 1960s, embodies the strength and resilience of women in military and espionage roles. Initially introduced in the comic book series “Tales of Suspense,” she was later fleshed out in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) as a capable agent involved with the French Resistance during World War II. Her character development reflects the historical contributions of women like Hannah Szenes and Virginia Hall.

Agent Carter, a Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) series, was created by Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely, known for their work on the Captain America films. The show, which premiered on ABC in 2015, ran for two seasons until March 1, 2016. Co-creators Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely were instrumental in shaping the narrative and character arcs, while Tara Butters and Michele Fazekas served as showrunners and executive producers, focusing on character development and post-war life. Chris Dingess, a showrunner, contributed to the overall direction of the series. The writing team included contributions from other writers throughout its run, balancing action with character-driven drama. The series starred Hayley Atwell as Peggy Carter, expanding her character’s story from her appearances in the films.

Themes of Empowerment and Resilience.
Agent Carter’s portrayal in the MCU emphasizes themes of empowerment and resilience, resonating with audiences who appreciate strong female characters. Her evolution into a leader within S.H.I.E.L.D. aligns with the legacies of influential women in history, showcasing the importance of representation in media.

Impact of Fictional Portrayals on Societal Perceptions.
The portrayal of female characters like Peggy Carter has a profound impact on societal perceptions of women in military and espionage roles. By showcasing their strengths and capabilities, these characters challenge traditional gender roles and inspire future generations to pursue careers in these fields.

Unique Skills of Women Soldiers and Spies.

Emotional Intelligence and Communication.
Women soldiers and spies often possess heightened emotional intelligence, allowing them to navigate complex social dynamics effectively. This skill is crucial in espionage, where understanding human behavior can mean the difference between success and failure. Their ability to communicate effectively fosters collaboration and builds trust, essential components in high-stress environments.

Adaptability in High-Stress Environments.
The capacity to adapt to rapidly changing circumstances is another unique skill that women bring to military and espionage roles. Whether learning new languages or disguising themselves to avoid detection, women have demonstrated remarkable flexibility in high-stress situations. This adaptability not only aids in survival but also enhances operational effectiveness.

Building Support Networks and Maintaining Morale.
Women often excel at building support networks, which are vital for maintaining morale in challenging circumstances. The experiences of hostages like Amit Soussana and Liri Albag illustrate the importance of camaraderie and emotional support in enduring captivity. Their ability to uplift one another highlights the significance of collective resilience in overcoming adversity.

Courage Knows No Gender: Women’s Contributions in Military and Espionage.
Women soldiers and spies, including Amit Soussana, Liri Albag, Hannah Szenes, Virginia Hall, and Hedy Lamarr, have made significant contributions to military and espionage efforts. Their resilience, adaptability, and emotional intelligence have enabled them to survive in dire circumstances and paved the way for future generations.

Peggy Carter, a character in the Marvel Universe, is influenced by historical figures like Szenes, Hall, and Lamarr. Szenes symbolizes courage and resilience, Hall, an American spy during World War II, is known for her intelligence and tactical abilities, and Lamarr, an actress and inventor, contributed to frequency-hopping spread spectrum technology. Hayley Atwell‘s embodiment of Peggy Carter has become an icon of female empowerment.
The survival of Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy, and Liri Albag during 477 days in captivity is a testament to the same qualities historical and fictional female figures to leadership, adaptability, physical endurance, emotional support, and defiance against captors.

Recognizing the achievements of women soldiers and spies is essential for fostering an inclusive environment where women can thrive.

The Israeli female soldiers recently released and those to be released are to inspire the next generation of women soldiers and spies, in fiction, reality, and vice-versa…

References:

Women soldiers and spies:
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-39434655
https://guides.loc.gov/french-resistance-world-war-two/women-in-the-french-resistance
https://www.military.com/history/military-heroes/female-pow-heroes
https://www.warandgender.com/chap2pap.htm
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Survival,_Evasion,_Resistance_and_Escape
https://uscpublicdiplomacy.org/blog/espionage-and-hollywood
https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-figures/12-unbelievably-daring-real-life-spies.htm
https://www.esquire.com/entertainment/movies/a30533681/james-bond-true-story-real-life-inspiration-ian-fleming
https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-figures/12-unbelievably-daring-real-life-spies.htm
https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/hedy-lamarr 
Virginia Hall: 
https://msa.maryland.gov/msa/educ/exhibits/womenshallfame/html/hall.html
https://ee.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/207/Not-Bad-for-a-Girl-from-Baltimore.pdf
https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/how-spy-known-limping-lady-helped-allies-win-wwii-180971889/
https://www.spymuseum.org/exhibition-experiences/about-the-collection/collection-highlights/virginia-hall-mbe-medal-award
https://www.intelligence.gov/people/barrier-breakers-in-history/662-1945-virginia-hall
Hannah Szenes
https://www.nli.org.il/en/discover/israel/figures/hannah-szenes
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hannah_Szenes
https://www.cwgc.org/stories/stories/aircraft-woman-2nd-class-hannah-szenes-poet-spy-soe-operative/
https://www.yadvashem.org/from-our-collections/hannah-szenes.html
https://www.myjewishlearning.com/article/hannah-senesh/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanna%27s_War
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KUMT7LrQflg 
Hedy Lamarr
https://www.hedylamarr.com/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hedy_Lamarr
https://www.newscientist.com/people/hedy-lamarr
https://www.invent.org/inductees/hedy-lamarr
https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/hedy-lamarr
Peggy Carter
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peggy_Carter_(Marvel_Cinematic_Universe)
https://dbpedia.org/page/Peggy_Carter_(Marvel_Cinematic_Universe)
https://spyguysandgals.com/sgShowChar.aspx?id=2504
https://www.entertainmentearth.com/news/agent-carter-episode-3-review-and-discussion
https://www.ign.com/wikis/marvel-studios-cinematic-universe/Peggy_Carter
About the Author
Frederic Eger is an Israeli, Argentine and French independent journalist and filmmaker with almost three decades of experience in the media industries. He focuses on science, technology, space and global issues. Frederic holds a Bachelor of Arts in History from the Sorbonne and a certificate in producing from UCLA. He is a member of the several organizations, among them the Moon Society, the Mars Society, Icarus Interstellar... Albert Einstein, Michio Kaku or Theodore Herzl are among his models.
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