01. Asterix the Gaul

Asterix the Gaul (Astérix le Gaulois) is the first volume in the iconic Asterix series, created by writer René Goscinny and illustrator Albert Uderzo. It was first serialized in the inaugural issue of Pilote magazine on October 29, 1959, and ran until 1960, with the book version published in 1961. The collaboration between Goscinny and Uderzo marked the beginning of what would become one of the most beloved comic series in history, celebrated for its humor, historical references, and clever wordplay.
Pilote Magazine’s Role
Pilote magazine, aimed at young readers, served as the launchpad for Asterix. The creators originally debated several concepts for a French comic series, ultimately settling on the adventures of a small Gaulish warrior resisting Roman occupation. The immediate popularity of Asterix the Gaul helped establish Pilote as a major publication and laid the groundwork for the long-running series.
The Creators
- René Goscinny (1926–1977) was a French writer of Polish-Jewish descent. He had a background in humor writing and comic scripting, having worked internationally before returning to France. His wit and penchant for puns brought Asterix’s world to life.
- Albert Uderzo (1927–2020), born to Italian immigrant parents, was an accomplished artist. His expressive and dynamic illustrations gave the series its visual charm.
Synopsis of Asterix the Gaul
The story introduces Asterix, a diminutive yet clever Gaul living in a small village in Armorica (modern-day Brittany). The village is the last bastion of resistance against Julius Caesar’s Roman occupation, thanks to a magic potion brewed by their druid, Getafix (Panoramix in French), which grants superhuman strength.
The Romans, stationed in nearby camps are frustrated by their inability to subdue the village. After a patrol is beaten by Asterix, they send out a spy to find out where the superhuman strenght of the villagers comes from. When they discover the secret of the Gauls’ strength, they capture Getafix to force him to reveal the potion’s recipe.
Asterix, with his cunning and resourcefulness, infiltrates the Roman camp to rescue the druid. Together, they outsmart the Romans by tricking them into believing they’ve learned the potion’s secret, leading to chaos in the camp. The story ends with the Romans humiliated, the village safe, and a grand banquet under the stars—a recurring hallmark of the series.
Key Characters
- Asterix (Astérix): The shrewd and courageous protagonist, who relies on his wits as much as his strength.
- Getafix (Panoramix): The wise druid, whose potion is the source of the village’s invincibility.
- Vitalstatistix (Abraracourcix): The village chief, whose name reflects his “important” status.
- Cacofonix (Assurancetourix): The bard, infamous for his terrible singing, though his name isn’t revealed in this first volume.
- Unnamed Blacksmith: Though the village blacksmith appears, he is not yet named Fulliautomatix in this story.
Obelix’s Role
While Obelix (Obélix in French) plays a relatively minor role in this first album, his character is already introduced as Asterix’s close friend and companion. Obelix is a menhir delivery man, known for his great strength, which comes from accidentally falling into a cauldron of magic potion as a child—a fact referenced in this album.
Though he doesn’t participate much in the action in Asterix the Gaul, his potential is evident. In later albums, Obelix becomes a central figure, providing much of the series’ humor and heart through his appetite, strength, and endearing simplicity.
Lots of Latin Quotes
The first Asterix album, Asterix the Gaul, contains numerous Latin quotes, reflecting René Goscinny’s early penchant for showcasing Roman culture humorously. Over time, Goscinny reduced the frequency of Latin phrases to focus more on visual and situational humor, making the series accessible to younger readers while retaining its witty appeal.
- Vae victis – “Woe to the vanquished.” A historical phrase emphasizing the conqueror’s dominance.
- Ipso facto – “By the fact itself.” Denotes direct causation.
- Quid nunc – “What now?” Often rhetorical.
- Alea jacta est – “The die is cast.” Julius Caesar’s declaration crossing the Rubicon.
- Ave Caesar, Morituri te salutant – “Hail Caesar, those who are about to die salute you.” Gladiators’ salute.
- Aut Caesar, Aut Nihil – “Either Caesar or nothing.” A phrase denoting ambition.
- Quid novi – “What’s new?” A greeting.
- Sursum Corda – “Lift up your hearts.” A liturgical phrase.
- Vanitas vanitatum et omnia vanitas – “Vanity of vanities, all is vanity.” From Ecclesiastes.
- Quomodo vales – “How are you?” Another common greeting.
- Vade retro – “Go back.” Used to repel or dismiss.
Film
The story was turned into a animated feature length film with the same title in 1967.
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