Frisian

De Grutte Kleau Asterix — Frisian cover of The Great Divide

Friesland is a province located in the northern part of the Netherlands, known for its distinctive culture, history, and natural landscapes, including lakes, waterways, and coastal areas. The region has a strong sense of identity, which is reflected in its unique language, Frisian, and its long-standing traditions. Friesland is bordered by the North Sea to the northwest, making it an important part of the Dutch maritime history. The capital city, Leeuwarden, is a cultural hub, offering a mix of historical sites, museums, and modern attractions. Friesland is also known for its agricultural activities, including dairy farming and the production of renowned Frisian horses. This province remains a vital area for the preservation of regional customs and the Frisian language.

The Frisian Language

Frisian is a Germanic language that is part of the West Germanic branch, which also includes languages like Dutch, English, and Low German. It is most closely related to English, with some linguists even referring to Frisian as the “closest living language” to English, due to shared vocabulary and syntax. Frisian itself has several dialects, primarily spoken in Friesland, though it is also spoken in parts of northern Germany. The language’s history dates back to the early Middle Ages, with roots in the Old Frisian period. While Frisian was once spoken across a broader area, its use has been largely confined to Friesland today, with Dutch being the dominant language in the region. Although Frisian is officially recognized and taught in schools in Friesland, its use is declining, particularly among younger generations, as Dutch continues to dominate in everyday life.

Asterix de Goaten — Frisian cover of The Goths

Asterix in Frisian

Frisian translations began in 1978 with Asterix de Goljer (Asterix the Gaul), followed by De gouden sichte (The Golden Sickle) in 1980, De Goaten (The Goths) in 1981, and De grutte kleau (The Great Divide) in 1981. These translations were published by Dargaud Benelux in Brussels and Oberon in Haarlem. Notably, after the first book, the spelling was standardized from ‘un ferhaal fon Asterix de Goljer’ to ‘in ferhaal fan Asterix de Galjer’.