What is the purpose of a thesis statement in analyzing an unfamiliar text?

A thesis statement serves a crucial role in analyzing an unfamiliar text by summarizing the main argument of the analysis. This statement encapsulates the central idea or perspective that the writer intends to explore throughout the analysis, guiding the reader through the critical examination of the text.

In this context, option C highlights its function as a roadmap for the reader, offering a clear indication of what to expect from the subsequent discussion, thus facilitating a more coherent and focused interpretation of the text. It presents the analytical lens through which the unfamiliar text will be evaluated, ensuring that the writer's insights are directed and meaningful.

The other options, while related to the process of writing, do not capture the essence of a thesis statement in this context. Providing a summary of each paragraph is more aligned with the structure of the analysis rather than the focus of the thesis. Stating the author's biography is irrelevant to the thesis's purpose, as it does not contribute to the analytical argument. Listing supporting evidence, though important for substantiating points made in the analysis, is more about the content that follows the thesis rather than the thesis itself.