It seems too many stories today are written for the sake of angst.

Yes, it happens more and more, and the angst serves no purpose. More often than not the story goes on a path that could have been navigated without the pain/heartbreak.

Why do people think that characters in this fantasy world have to have so-called modern day sensibilities?

I have no clue. A portion of TES fans have the idea that everyone in the Elder Scrolls lore is promiscuous and that such behavior is not only normal, but expected. I blame the Tribunal.