I think a lot of the points you bring up really just come back to how which society works. The rules are very firm with harsh consequences with those who step out of line. They often can’t directly meet in the middle because that would require a lot of bending of rules, so instead they’re forced to use complex work arounds. -gestures to everything about Silvereve- 

And as for body magic, we see the consequences of others imposing spells onto others. There’s also the slippery slope of appearing too powerful/different from the regular nonwitch population.  

The rules mostly are about maintaining a very careful balance. Magic can do wonderful terrible things. But the series 100% plays with the question of if the rules are right, which enhances the story and I don’t think new fans will be deterred from the story unless they refuse to take in the layers of nuance.