Final answer:
Ongka's wife felt compelled to take care of the pigs due to their cultural and economic significance in her society, where they represent wealth and are integral to social functions like ceremonies and dowries.
Step-by-step explanation:
Ongka's wife felt compelled to take care of the pigs because they are highly valued within the socio-economic structure of her society. In many traditional societies, such as those in the Andes or the highlands of New Guinea where Ongka could be based, pigs are not only a source of food but also a form of wealth and social currency. They play a vital role in social events, such as ceremonial feasts and dowries, and are often looked after by women as part of their societal duties and contributions to the household's wealth and status.
In a related anthropological context, similar to Ongka's situation, the Andean herders believe their animals, including goats and presumably pigs, are gifts from Pachamama (Mother Earth). In such societies, women are often the primary caretakers, which underscores the importance of their role in managing these valuable assets. This cultural expectation is an essential part of their responsibilities, reflecting the significance of livestock in maintaining the societal fabric and ensuring the prosperity of the community.