Question

what is the purpose of an academic essay?
to develop and advance a central claim, called a thesis
to tell a story to an audience in a way that garners their sympathies
to create misery for high school students
to be accepted for publication in top academic journals

Explanation:

An academic essay's main goal is to present and support a central argument (thesis). Telling a story for sympathy is more narrative - like. Creating misery is not a valid purpose. While publication can be a result for some, it's not the core purpose. The core is thesis development.

Answer:

To develop and advance a central claim, called a thesis.