> You would think it’s the middle ages, but human society has actually been around in Middle Earth about as long as it has in ours. The time span since the Ind

> You would think it’s the middle ages, but human society has actually been around in Middle Earth about as long as it has in ours. The time span since the Industrial Revolution compared to the history of humankind (let alone humanoids) is a tiny fraction, so even a tiny bit of variation in "about as long" can explain all the technological difference between rocket-propelled grenades and catapults. But the actual reason why there is no modern technology in Middle Earth has of course nothing to do with economics or engineering, but with the personal tastes of Tolkien. He wanted to create a medieval saga, not sci-fi, and judging by its popularity, he did a great job.