Skip to main content

20. Asterix in Corsica

Asterix in Corsica - french cover - source: asterix.com

“Asterix in Corsica” is the twentieth volume in the beloved Asterix comic book series, created by the legendary duo of René Goscinny (stories) and Albert Uderzo (illustrations). First serialized in Pilote magazine in 1973, this adventure takes our indomitable Gauls on a thrilling journey to the beautiful and rugged island of Corsica.  

Preamble

This book doesn’t start with a map of Gaul but with a map of the island of Corsica (see below). What’s more, the original French albums start with a preamble by the authors. This introductory text is not present in all translations. What follows is my translation of that text:

PREAMBLE

For most people, Corsica is the birthplace of an emperor who has left in history pages as indelible as those inspired by our old accomplice, Julius Caesar. It is also the cradle of a charming singer with a long and prestigious career, whose refrains about Marinella and the beautiful Catarineta, “tchi tchi,” have traveled the world.

It is also the land of vendettas, siestas, complicated politics, robust cheeses, wild boars, chestnuts, succulent pigs, and elderly people without age who watch life pass by.

But Corsica is more than all that. It is part of those privileged places on the globe with a character, a strong personality, that neither time nor humans manage to alter. It is one of the most beautiful places in the world, fully justifying its nickname, “the Isle of Beauty.”

But why this preamble, you may ask?
Because the Corsicans, often described as individualistic—combining exuberance with self-control—are charming, hospitable, loyal, faithful in friendship, deeply attached to their native land, eloquent, and courageous. They are all that and more.

They are susceptible.

The Authors

Map of Corsica French Asterix album Asterix en Corse
Map of Corsica

The Plot

The story begins with a grand banquet celebrating the anniversary of Vercingetorix’s victory at the Battle of Gergovia. This unique gathering brings together a host of characters from previous Asterix adventures, including Petitsuix from Switzerland, Huevos Y Bacon from Spain, and various other allies from across Gaul.  

However, the festivities are interrupted by the unexpected arrival of Boneywasawarriorwayayix, a proud and rebellious Corsican chieftain exiled by the Roman Praetor Perfidius. Captivated by Boneywasawarriorwayayix’s tales of freedom and resistance, Asterix and Obelix decide to accompany him back to his homeland.  

Their journey to Corsica is filled with unexpected twists and turns. After a hilarious encounter with the pirates who attempt to rob their ship, only to be thwarted by the unexpected arrival of the Gauls, they finally reach the shores of Corsica.

Once on the island, Asterix and Obelix become embroiled in the complex web of Corsican society, encountering fierce vendettas, encountering the unique blend of Corsican pride and independence, and even experiencing the island’s famous cheeses (much to Obelix’s initial dismay).  

With the help of Boneywasawarriorwayayix and his fellow Corsicans, they successfully drive out the Roman forces and restore freedom to the island.

A Satirical Look at Corsican Culture:

Preamble in French

“Asterix in Corsica” is not just a thrilling adventure; it’s also a witty and satirical look at Corsican culture. The album humorously portrays:

  • Corsican Pride: The islanders’ fierce pride, their strong sense of honor, and their long history of resistance against oppression are all playfully exaggerated.
  • The Vendetta: The age-old tradition of vendettas, a source of both humor and conflict in the story, is depicted with a touch of irony.
  • Local Stereotypes: The album playfully satirizes certain Corsican stereotypes, including their leisurely lifestyle, their love of strong cheese, and their penchant for afternoon naps.

Cultural and Historical References:

  • Napoleon Bonaparte: The album is filled with subtle references to Napoleon Bonaparte, the famous Corsican general and emperor.
    • Boneywasawarriorwayayix’s name itself is a humorous reference to Napoleon.
    • The phrase “une grande armée” (a large army), used by Boneywasawarriorwayayix, is a direct reference to Napoleon’s formidable army.
    • The album also alludes to Napoleon’s famous statement that he could recognize Corsica by its scent.
  • “Felix qui potuit rerum cognoscere causas”: This Latin phrase, which translates to “Happy is he who has been able to understand the causes of things,” appears in the album and is attributed to the Roman poet Virgil. It emphasizes the importance of knowledge and understanding in navigating the complexities of the world.

Different names

Ocatarinetabellatchitchix
Boneywasawarriorwayayix

Boneywasawarriorwayayix, the proud Corsican chieftain in “Asterix in Corsica,” boasts a name as unique and memorable as the character himself. His original French name is Ocatarinetabellatchitchix. This tongue-twisting moniker has been translated and adapted in various ways for different language editions of the comic, reflecting the creative liberties taken by translators and publishers.

  • Original French: Ocatarinetabellatchitchix
  • English: Boneywasawarriorwayayix (a humorous reference to “Boney,” a nickname for Napoleon Bonaparte)
  • German: Osolemirnix
  • Italian: Ocatarinetabelscicix
  • Dutch: Wiezewallekristallix

These translations, while maintaining the spirit of the original, often incorporate elements of humor or local linguistic quirks. The German version, for example, maintains a similar string of consonants, while the Dutch translation takes a more playful approach, utilizing a longer and more convoluted string of sounds.

Conclusion

“Asterix in Corsica” is a delightful and entertaining adventure that not only provides humorous escapism but also offers a glimpse into the unique culture and history of the island. It remains a beloved entry in the series, captivating readers with its witty dialogue, captivating artwork, and insightful commentary on the human condition.

My Collection

Asterix e Obelix alla Conquista Del Mondo contains seven stories.

Next: 21. Asterix and Caesar’s Gift