The Book of Esther describes Esther's actions to save the "Jews" (but note that a better translation "Judeans") in the Persian Empire from Haman's vendetta.
It was a triumph as well as a sorrow, however. Esther can only be successful operating within predetermined gender norms and hierarchies.
Her actions reflect a masculine view of female effectiveness. She does the bidding of Mordechai and uses her sexuality to convince the king and expose Haman.
