Final answer:
A proposed thesis statement for Joyce Carol Oates's 'Ladies and Gentlemen', focusing on the theme of greediness, suggests that the characters' pursuit of self-interest results in harm to their loved ones, showcasing the damaging impact of greed.
Step-by-step explanation:
A thesis statement for Ladies and Gentlemen by Joyce Carol Oates, reflecting the central idea that 'greediness can cause harm to loved ones', might be articulated as follows:
In 'Ladies and Gentlemen' by Joyce Carol Oates, the characters' relentless pursuit of personal gain leads to destructive consequences for their relationships, illustrating the detrimental effects of greed on familial and emotional bonds.
This thesis encapsulates the notion that the characters' greed not only ruins their own lives but also inflicts pain upon those they care about, thus supporting the central message of the narrative.