An effective thesis statement establishes the focus of a compare-and-contrast essay by:

a. immediately relating important supporting details and information to the audience.
b. orienting and engaging the audience as well as setting the tone for the piece.
c. addressing any possible counter-arguments against the piece’s main claim.
d. providing the writer’s viewpoint and two reasons why the argument is valid.

An effective thesis statement establishes the focus of a compare-and-contrast essay by:

B. orienting and engaging the audience as well as setting the tone for the piece.

Explanation:

A thesis statement appears at the beginning of an essay, usually towards the end of the very first paragraph. Its purpose is to convey what the essay will be about, that is, which topic will be discussed, and to engage readers. It also shows the tone and position the author has in relation to the topic.

The thesis statement does NOT mention details and important information; it does NOT address possible counter-arguments; and it does NOT provide two reasons why the argument is valid. All of those elements shall come after the thesis statement, properly developed in their specific paragraphs.

- "the answers are a and b.  

when cullen speaks of planting while others reap, and standing "abject and mute," he is speaking about the racial injustices present in american society. as these injustices have changed over time, the american identity  has also shifted. those changes are, in turn, reflected in american literature."

a

explanation: