Why Are New World Crops Common in Medieval Fantasy Stories?
It is often observed that medieval fantasy stories feature crops such as potatoes, tomatoes, pumpkins, and sunflowers, which are not historically accurate to the Middle Ages. This article explores the reasons behind this prevalence, highlighting cultural familiarity, narrative convenience, and the flexibilities of world-building in fantasy literature.
Cultural Familiarity
Modern Influence: Many fantasy writers are inspired by contemporary culture and cuisine, which often includes these New World crops. This modern influence makes the setting more relatable to contemporary readers, enhancing its appeal and accessibility.
Many readers today have a strong emotional connection with potatoes, tomatoes, and other common foods. Including these familiar ingredients in fantasy stories can evoke a sense of comfort and familiarity, drawing the reader into the world being created.
Narrative Convenience
Availability of Ingredients: The use of New World crops can create vivid imagery and relatable meals, which can significantly enhance the storytelling. For example, descriptions of baked potatoes or spaghetti can evoke a sense of home and comfort.
Symbolism and Themes: These crops might also be used symbolically to represent abundance, diversity, or the blending of cultures, especially in worlds that feature trade or exploration. This usage can deepen the thematic richness of the story.
Fantasy Tropes
Mixing Eras and Cultures: Fantasy literature often blends various historical periods and cultures, allowing for a mix of elements that would not typically coexist. The introduction of New World crops into a medieval setting is a common technique that fantasy writers use to add flavor and uniqueness to their worlds.
Magic and Otherworldly Elements: The presence of magic and fantastical creatures can create an environment where anachronistic elements are more easily accepted. The magical nature of the world suspends the reader's disbelief, making it more plausible to encounter these crops out of their historical context.
World-Building Flexibility
Alternative Histories: Many fantasy worlds are constructed with alternate histories or timelines where the introduction of New World crops happens at different times. This flexibility allows writers to create unique and imaginative worlds.
Diverse Ecosystems: Authors might also craft entirely new ecosystems where these crops can thrive independent of their real-world origins. This approach allows for a rich and vibrant world-building experience.
Conclusion
While it is true that potatoes and tomatoes were not introduced to Europe until after the Columbian Exchange in the late 15th century, the fantasy genre often prioritizes narrative engagement and imaginative world-building over historical accuracy. If you prefer a more historically accurate medieval fantasy setting, you might look for works that focus on Old World crops and traditional medieval diets.
The use of New World crops in medieval fantasy stories serves a variety of narrative and thematic purposes. Whether it is to create a more relatable story or to spice up the world with unique elements, the inclusion of these crops is a testament to the creative liberties that writers take in crafting their narratives.