12. Asterix at the Olympic Games

The 12th installment in the beloved Asterix comic book series, “Asterix at the Olympic Games,” takes our indomitable Gauls to the heart of ancient Greece.
The Plot
The story begins at the Roman camp of Aquarium, where Gluteus Maximus, a formidable legionary, is chosen to represent Rome in the upcoming Olympic Games. However, his training is disrupted by encounters with Asterix and Obelix, whose superhuman strength and speed (courtesy of their magic potion) leave him demoralized.
Determined to compete, the Gauls, led by the ever-resourceful Asterix, devise a plan to participate in the Games themselves. The entire village, including the boisterous Obelix and the aged but enthusiastic Druid Getafix, embarks on a journey to Olympia.
The Games themselves are a spectacle of unexpected twists and turns. The Romans, initially demoralized by the Gauls’ arrival, succumb to a life of decadence and partying. Alarmed by their rivals’ unhealthy habits, the Greeks warn them about the dangers of performance-enhancing substances.
The turning point arrives when the Romans, desperate to win, resort to the forbidden magic potion. However, Getafix has added a mischievous ingredient, resulting in a disastrous side effect: a permanent blue tongue! The Romans are disqualified, and Asterix emerges victorious.
Background on the Ancient Olympic Games
The comic book humorously depicts the ancient Olympic Games, a series of panhellenic sporting competitions held every four years in honor of Zeus in Olympia, Elis, Greece. According to Greek mythology, these games were founded by Heracles. Initially a religious festival, the Olympic Games quickly evolved into a significant sporting and cultural event for all of Greece. Athletes competed naked in various disciplines, including running, discus throw, long jump, javelin throw, and wrestling. Victory was considered a tremendous honor, and the winners were crowned with an olive wreath.
The Doping Debate
“Asterix at the Olympic Games” cleverly satirizes the issue of doping in sports. When the Romans use the magic potion, the authors, René Goscinny and Albert Uderzo, subtly highlight the difference between their magical elixir and real performance-enhancing substances. This adds a layer of social commentary to the humorous narrative.
A Feast for the Senses
The album is a visual feast, with vibrant artwork depicting the splendor of ancient Greece. From the bustling marketplace of Olympia to the awe-inspiring Colossus of Rhodes, the comic book vividly brings the ancient world to life.
A Cast of Memorable Characters
Beyond Asterix and Obelix, “Asterix at the Olympic Games” features a memorable cast of characters. Agecanonix, the nestor of the town (in Dutch his name is Nestorix), finally gets his moment to shine, while the Romans, despite their initial arrogance, provide ample comedic relief.
A visit to ancient Greece
When the indomitable Gauls arrive in Athens, they embark on a whirlwind tour of the city’s ancient wonders. The Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the majestic Parthenon leave them in awe. Uderzo’s depiction of the statue of Athena Parthenos, though no longer extant in reality, is inspired by a replica at the Royal Ontario Museum. The Gauls even find themselves immortalized on a vase, painted by a local artist who owns a famous kylix depicting Oedipus and the Sphinx.
Olympia, the site of the ancient Olympic Games, offers the authors another opportunity to showcase their knowledge of Greek history and mythology. The Temple of Zeus, home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World, and the Altis, the sacred precinct, are just a few of the iconic landmarks featured. The authors even take the opportunity to introduce readers to the Hellanodikai, the judges of the Games, and the Boule, the Olympic senate.
The entrance of the Greek teams into the Olympic stadium is filled with subtle cultural references. For example, the team from Thermopylae is a nod to the famous battle at the Hot Gates, while the team from Samothrace alludes to the iconic Victory of Samothrace statue. Goscinny’s witty inclusion of a team from Milo allows him to play with the word “come” and reference the Venus de Milo. And let’s not forget the marathon runners from Marathon or the Spartans, famous for their bare feet.
These cultural references not only add depth and richness to the comic but also invite readers to delve deeper into Greek history and mythology. By incorporating these historical elements, Uderzo and Goscinny have created a comic book that is both entertaining and educational.
Latin Quotes
“Mens sana in corpore sano”
- Literal Translation: “A healthy mind in a healthy body.”
- Meaning: This proverb, often attributed to Juvenal, emphasizes the importance of a balance between mind and body. In other words, good physical health contributes to a healthy mind, and vice versa. The idea is that physical exercise and a healthy lifestyle can promote mental clarity, creativity, and overall well-being.
- Historical Context: While the expression has become very popular, there is no specific historical reference within Juvenal’s writings that confirms its exact use in this context. However, the idea of a healthy body as a foundation for a healthy mind was a common concept in ancient Greece and Rome.
“Et nunc reges, intelligite erudimini, qui judicatis terram”
- Literal Translation: “And now, O kings, understand, be instructed, you who judge the earth.”
- Meaning: This verse, taken from the Psalms, is a call to rulers to use their authority with wisdom and justice. Essentially, it urges kings to govern with discernment, to seek knowledge, and to understand the needs of their subjects.
- Biblical Context: This verse is a reminder to kings to govern equitably and justly, emphasizing the responsibility that rests on their shoulders. It is an invitation to use power wisely and to serve the common good.
Both of these aphorisms, although originating from different historical and cultural contexts, continue to resonate in our contemporary world, offering valuable lessons about life, health, and governance.
A Timeless Classic
“Asterix at the Olympic Games” is more than just a comic book; it’s a witty and insightful commentary on sports, competition, and the enduring human desire for victory. It remains a beloved classic, entertaining readers of all ages with its blend of humor, adventure, and historical references.
My Collection



















