What do Greta's horses represent in the novel, Women Talking?

Greta's horses, Ruth and Cheryl, represent oppressed bodies, and the identities of those who lack agency and freedom. Greta's protectiveness for her horses mimics the women's desire to similarly guard and defend one another. Though Ruth and Cheryl are livestock, perceived as commodities by the men, Greta feels a deep connection with them. The horses therefore seem to parallel all of the women in the colony, their voicelessness and lack of independence.