How is rural defined in this context?

In the context of this question, "rural" refers specifically to areas that are connected to the countryside rather than to urban or town settings. This distinction emphasizes the characteristics and lifestyle typically associated with non-urban environments, which often include agriculture, open spaces, and a lower population density compared to cities.

This definition aligns with traditional understandings of rural areas, where the landscape is primarily composed of fields, farms, and natural surroundings, as opposed to concentrated developments and industrial activities found in urban areas. Understanding this context is crucial as it highlights the social, economic, and environmental dynamics that are pertinent to the rural way of life, especially during the Industrial Revolution, when the contrast between rural and urban settings became more pronounced as industries began to grow.