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22. Asterix and the Great Crossing

A Transatlantic Adventure

Asterix and the Great Crossing - french cover - source: asterix.com

“Asterix and the Great Crossing” (Original title: La Grande Traversée) is the twenty-second volume in the beloved Asterix comic book series, created by the legendary duo of René Goscinny (stories) and Albert Uderzo (illustrations). First published in 1975, this adventure takes our indomitable Gauls on an unexpected voyage across the ocean, encountering Vikings, Native Americans, and a series of hilarious misadventures along the way.

The Plot

The story begins with a crisis in the Gaulish village: Unhygienix’s stock of fish has run out, and fresh supplies from Lutetia (modern-day Paris) are delayed. When Getafix urgently needs fish for his magic potion, Asterix and Obelix step up, borrowing Geriatrix’s boat to go fishing. However, a fierce storm blows them off course. After a humorous run-in with pirates, the duo finds themselves in an unfamiliar land – one the reader quickly identifies as America.

This “New World” is filled with curious sights: gobbling birds (turkeys), painted “Romans” (Native Americans), and exotic customs. The Gauls soon earn the affection of the locals but find themselves in a predicament when the chief’s daughter takes a liking to Obelix. Seeking escape, they journey to a small island (likely Liberty Island) and attract a Viking ship by mimicking the Statue of Liberty. What follows is a Pre-Columbian trans-oceanic voyage to the Vikings’ homeland, culminating in their return to Gaul with a newfound friend, Catastrofix, who helps procure fish for the magic potion.

Iconic Details and Cultural References

  1. Thanksgiving Turkey: Asterix and Obelix’s discovery of the turkey leads to a humorous discussion about stuffing, referencing the American Thanksgiving tradition.
  2. The American Dream: Asterix’s comment about the New World being a place where “everything is possible” is a cheeky nod to the American Dream.
  3. Stars and Stripes: After being punched by Obelix, Native American warriors see stars in formations resembling iconic American symbols.
  4. The Statue of Liberty: Asterix’s torch-waving imitation of the statue prompts a hilarious exchange with Obelix about valuing liberty.
  5. Vikings in America: The anachronistic depiction of Vikings discovering America plays on historical theories about Leif Erikson’s voyages, complete with characters like Herendethelessen and Huntingseåssen (a Great Dane).
  6. Shakespearean References: The Danish Vikings’ dialogue includes lines from Hamlet, such as “Something is rotten in the state of…” and “To be or not to be.”

Latin Quotes Explained

  • Ira furor brevis est: “Anger is a brief madness.” This phrase highlights the impulsive nature of rage, an apt reflection of the hot-headedness seen in the story.
  • Donec eris felix, multos numerabis amicos: “As long as you are fortunate, you will count many friends.” A poignant reminder of human fickleness, relevant to the Gauls’ fluctuating fortunes.

A Masterpiece of Visual Storytelling

Goscinny and Uderzo push artistic boundaries with playful innovations, such as entirely white or black pages symbolizing mist and fog, a callback to their rebellious spirit during the Pilote magazine days. The intricate depictions of Native American and Viking cultures add depth and humor, making this album a visual feast.

Legacy and Translations

This album’s cultural richness led to unique translations, including Americanized versions with localized names (e.g., Vitalstatistix becomes Macroeconomix). It remains a fan favorite for its clever blend of history, humor, and heart. The film Asterix conquers America is largely based on the story of this book.

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