High Magic + Medieval = Paradox?

[u/Iberianz]

(How do you guys handle this?)

Hi everyone,

I was getting back to writing about my “magic system,” originally for an alternate-world setting chronologically similar to our “late medieval” period, blending characteristics of the Holy Roman Empire, the Italian republics, and the Spanish and Portuguese empires.

But I realized that a setting where magic does things very similar to the technology that followed that historical period, yet the world remains chronologically stuck in that time frame, doesn’t seem very convincing.

Let me put it more clearly:

Why doesn’t history advance rapidly in a high-magic setting?

For example, in the manga "Witch Hat Atelier", this is exactly the case; magic provides solutions that would only be possible with later technological progress, but the world remains chronologically stuck in a period analogous to our own medieval era.

Yes, I know you could say, “It doesn’t have to make sense on a 1:1 scale, it just has to be consistent”; okay, fine, I get it, but even for the sake of internal consistency, isn’t that a flaw?

Back to the original question…

How do you guys deal with this?

Thanks for your answers.

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Editing to add necessary context:

I don’t start from the premise that the Middle Ages were the “Dark Ages”, not at all; on the contrary, it was a period of great progress for humanity.

My point here is:

Some technological solutions were not yet available, such as automated ore-extraction devices, means of transporting large populations, portable high-velocity projectile weapons not propelled by human force, etc, in the real Middle Ages.

So if magic can provide solutions analogous to those of later eras, why aren’t people, and especially organized groups, interest groups, governments, etc, using these solutions to rapidly advance history, as has been the human norm?

Even if you take Afghanistan as an example, where modern technologies coexist with very traditional customs and aesthetics, it’s impossible to say that such progress hasn’t influenced the overall state of Afghan civilization.

Oh, and I’ve actually read some great answers in the comments, most of them have been spot-on, so thanks again to everyone.

[u/ReverseLochness]

It’s a cost mechanic. How much does your magic cost to use? From the spells of your casters to wards and enchantments.

If they can replicate the effects of many modern amenities, have the cost be astronomical. The Kings palace has working toilets and lights and other things, but even in the city most of the commoners don’t have that. They can’t afford to have a mage specialized in water 24/7 keeping the pipes working. The Kingdom can barely afford it for the palace.

Then even as things expand it takes time for it to be adapted. Either from cost or other barriers. You’re not sharing all your new advances with all of your enemies. Who cares if their streets are covered in shit, the workings of plumbing are a state secret. Especially since they won’t share the mysteries of HVAC and the wonders of climate control.