Nov 30, 2004 09:24 AM
3750 Views
(Updated Nov 30, 2004 09:24 AM)
Asterix, the Gaul, is the inspired creation of Rene Goscinny, renowned author of several several short stories and comics (Lucky Luke, Isnogood, to name but two of his most successful), and Albert Uderzo, a highly talented comic book artist.
together they set out in 1959 to create a humorous character set in Roman times (around 50 BC), a defiant Gaul, for whom surrender to the 'crazy Romans' was not an option. A classic underdog, who, from with a magic potion brewed by his village's druid, draws supernatural strength with which he can overcome the impossible odds of taking on the Roman Empire, at times defying (and outwitting) even the mighty Julius Caesar himself.
Far more than mere comic book, the Asterix adventures are an outrageous mixture of humour, jocous comments on European national stereotypes, funny swipes at the achievements of the Roman Empire (with beautiful sceneries set by Uderzo of the streets of Ancient Rome, etc...), charicatural cameo appearances of pretty much anyone who ever was someone, and a group of Gallic villagers in Asterix' home village who will give you belly-aches of laughter reading about their flaws and feuds.
His adventures have Asterix touring France, visiting Britain, Spain, Germany, Switzerland, Belgium, Egypt, the Near East (when looking for oil !), Greece, Corsica, Rome, even America (although unwittingly!) and recently he even went to India...
My Best are:
Asterix and the Roman Agent
Asterix and the Chieftain's Shield