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18. Asterix and the Laurel Wreath

A Roman Holiday with a Gaulish Twist

Asterix and the Laurel Wreath - french cover - source: asterix.com

“Asterix and the Laurel Wreath” is the fifteenth volume in the beloved Asterix comic book series, created by the legendary duo of René Goscinny (stories) and Albert Uderzo (illustrations). This 1971 adventure finds our indomitable Gauls embarking on a hilarious and unexpected journey to Rome.

The Plot:

The story begins with Chief Vitalstatistix, in a moment of drunken bravado, boasting to his brother-in-law, Homeopathix, that he can obtain anything, even a laurel wreath from Julius Caesar’s head. True to his word, Vitalstatistix sends Asterix and Obelix on this seemingly impossible mission.

Their journey to Rome takes a series of unexpected turns. After mistakenly selling themselves into slavery, Asterix and Obelix find themselves entangled in the household of a wealthy Roman patrician. Through a series of comical misadventures, they encounter a corrupt slave trader, a boisterous Roman family, and even find themselves facing trial for an attempted assassination of Caesar.

The trial itself is a masterpiece of comedic absurdity. The defense lawyer, anticipating the prosecution’s arguments, attempts to open his speech with the powerful Latin phrase “Delenda Carthago” (“Carthage must be destroyed”). However, the prosecutor, anticipating this very move, uses the same phrase, leaving the defense lawyer speechless.

Ultimately, through a series of unlikely events, including a riot in the Circus Maximus and a surprising act of generosity from their former “owner,” Asterix and Obelix manage to acquire Caesar’s laurel wreath. However, they discover that Caesar has secretly replaced the wreath with a wreath of parsley, much to his own amusement.

Background and Interesting Facts:

  • Adult Themes: This album features a darker, more adult tone than previous installments. It explores themes of slavery, debauchery, and even hints of sado-masochism.
  • Cultural References: The album is rich in cultural references, including allusions to famous sculptures like “The Thinker” and the “Discobolus,” and parodies of French television personalities.
  • Historical References:
    • Caesar’s campaign against the pirates, a key plot point, is based on a real-life incident from Caesar’s youth.
    • The phrase “Delenda Carthago” (“Carthage must be destroyed”) was famously used by the Roman senator Cato the Elder in every one of his speeches to the Senate, emphasizing the need for the complete destruction of the Carthaginian city-state.
  • Unique Artistic Style: The original French version features a more cursive and difficult-to-read lettering style, adding a unique visual element to the album.

“Asterix and the Laurel Wreath” is a testament to the enduring brilliance of Goscinny and Uderzo. It is a hilarious and thought-provoking adventure that continues to entertain readers with its witty dialogue, captivating artwork, and insightful commentary on Roman society.

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