Who is Avdotia from Dreams of My Russian Summers and what is their importance?

Avdotia is the milkmaid in Saranza. She spends her days lugging a heavy milk churn around town selling her wares. She only rests when she stops at Charlotte's house and sprawls out on the hardwood floors. There, she and Charlotte spend a few moments discussing politics, farming, and various other topics while Avdotia rests her tired muscles.