14. Asterix in Spain
Asterix in Spain, Asterix en Hispanie, is the fourteenth volume of the beloved Asterix comic book series, created by the brilliant duo of René Goscinny (stories) and Albert Uderzo (illustrations). First published in 1969, this adventure takes our indomitable Gauls on a journey to the Iberian Peninsula.
The Plot
The story begins when Julius Caesar, in a bid to maintain control, kidnaps Pepe, the son of Chief Huevos Y Bacon, leader of a rebellious Iberian village. Pepe is sent to the Gaulish village as a hostage. Asterix and Obelix, after successfully defeating Pepe’s Roman escort, find themselves tasked with returning the mischievous boy to his homeland.
Their journey to Iberia is fraught with peril. They encounter treacherous roads, encounter a Roman centurion named Spurius Brontosaurus who attempts to steal their magic potion, and even witness a thrilling bullfight (featuring an aurochs, an extinct ancestor of the bull).
Obelix, ever eager to please, manages to single-handedly scatter the Roman siege of Pepe’s village, while Asterix, in a dramatic display, proves his bravery in the bullfighting arena.
Finally, after a tearful farewell to Pepe and the grateful Iberians, Asterix and Obelix return home to Gaul, where Obelix, to the dismay of the blacksmith Fulliautomatix, attempts to introduce the villagers to the joys of Spanish dancing and singing.
Interesting tidbits
- Historical References:
- The kidnapping of Pepe reflects the historical practice of hostage-taking in ancient times.
- Pepe’s defiant “You shall not pass!” echoes the famous speech by Dolores Ibárruri Gómez during the Spanish Civil War.
- The album satirizes Spanish stereotypes, such as their pride and their reputation for slow road repairs.
- The appearance of Don Quixote and Sancho Panza adds a touch of literary humor.
- The bullfight scenes, while entertaining, feature an aurochs instead of a bull, reflecting the historical accuracy of the comic.
- The line “A fish, a fish, my kingdom for a fish!” is a direct quote from Shakespeare’s Richard III.
- Cultural and Artistic References:
- The album features caricatures of famous figures, including the French conductor Gérard Calvi.
- The nocturnal processions of druids evoke the religious processions associated with Spanish culture.
- Unique Aspects:
- This is the first appearance of Unhygienix the fishmonger and his wife Bacteria in the series.
- It also features the first recorded fight between the villagers, instigated by Unhygienix’s fish.
Latin Quote
“Beati pauperes spiritu”
- Translation: “Blessed are the poor in spirit.”
- Origin: This phrase is taken from the Sermon on the Mount in the Gospel of Matthew in the New Testament of the Bible.
- Meaning: It is one of the Beatitudes, a series of blessings pronounced by Jesus Christ. This particular beatitude emphasizes humility and a recognition of one’s spiritual needs and dependence on God.
- Usage: This phrase has become a cornerstone of Christian theology and is often used to describe those who are humble, meek, and spiritually receptive. It emphasizes inner peace and a lack of worldly ambition.
Conclusion
“Asterix in Spain” is a delightful adventure that combines humor, historical references, and cultural observations. It remains a beloved entry in the Asterix series, entertaining readers of all ages with its witty dialogue, captivating artwork, and unforgettable characters.
My Collection
Asterix e Obelix alla Conquista Del Mondo contains seven stories.