Why was including the family cow in Koly's dowry considered hurtful?

Including the family cow in Koly's dowry is considered hurtful primarily because the cow provided milk for the family. In the context of Koly's world, the cow is not just a domestic animal but a significant source of sustenance and financial support for her family. By including the cow in the dowry, it symbolizes a loss of essential resources that are crucial for the family's survival and wellbeing. This action highlights the distressing reality of Koly’s situation, where her family is forced to divest themselves of something vital to their livelihood, indicating their dire financial circumstances and the emotional burden associated with giving away such an important part of their daily lives. These deeper implications reflect the harsh realities faced by families in this setting, and such a decision can evoke feelings of resentment and sadness.