Asterix and Cleopatra

Asterix and Cleopatra
Company type	Comic book
Industry	Publishing
Founded	1965
Founder	René Goscinny, Albert Uderzo
Products	Comic album
Website	www.asterix.com/en/the-collection/albums/asterix-and-cleopatra/

Asterix and Cleopatra (French: Astérix et Cléopâtre) represents the sixth installment in the Asterix comic collection, crafted by René Goscinny with illustrations by Albert Uderzo. Initially appearing as a serialized story in Pilote magazine in 1963, it was later compiled into a comic album in 1965. The narrative centers on Asterix and Obelix aiding their druid companion Getafix in Egypt to assist an architect tasked with completing a significant project commissioned by Queen Cleopatra as part of a wager against Julius Caesar.

The plot emphasizes teamwork and innovative problem-solving as the Gauls endeavor to support the construction of an impressive palace in Alexandria within a strict three-month deadline. Cleopatra assigns her chief architect, Edifis, this ambitious undertaking, offering a reward of gold for success while threatening severe consequences for failure. To meet this challenge, Edifis seeks Getafix’s magical assistance, bringing along Asterix, Obelix, and Dogmatix to ensure the palace is finished on time through the power of the druid’s potion.

Tension escalates when Edifis's competitor, Artifis, resorts to sabotage and falsely accuses the Gauls of poisoning Cleopatra. Despite these obstacles, the team uses their resourcefulness and magical aids to prevail. When Caesar discovers the Gauls’ involvement and launches an attack on the site, Cleopatra denounces his dishonorable conduct, compelling him to personally restore the damage caused. The palace is completed as scheduled; Edifis receives his promised reward, and former adversaries Edifis and Artifis reconcile to collaborate on upcoming projects. Before departing, Cleopatra expresses her gratitude by presenting the Gauls with treasures from the Library of Alexandria.

This comic book inspired two cinematic adaptations: a 1968 animated feature and a 2002 live-action film titled Asterix & Obelix: Mission Cleopatra. Additionally, an audiobook rendition was produced by Hodder and Stoughton.

Characters

Asterix – The Gaulish warrior serving as the primary hero.
Obelix – A Gaulish warrior and menhir deliveryman, known for his permanent superhuman strength and close friendship with Asterix.
Dogmatix – The faithful canine companion of Obelix.
Getafix – The druid responsible for brewing the magic potion that grants extraordinary strength.
Julius Caesar – The Roman Empire’s leader, inspired by the historical figure.
Cleopatra – The Ptolemaic Queen of Egypt, modeled after the historical monarch.
Edifis – An Egyptian architect allied with Getafix, renowned for durable constructions.
Artifis – An Egyptian architect and rival to Edifis due to conflicting views on labor methods.
Mintjulep – An Egyptian spy working on behalf of the Romans.
The Pirates – Led by Captain Redbeard, these frequent antagonists often face misfortune at the hands of the Gauls.

Adaptations

Asterix and Cleopatra has been adapted into two notable films:

The 1968 animated movie produced by Dargaud, supervised by creators Goscinny and Uderzo to enhance earlier adaptations. The French voice cast included Roger Carel and Jacques Morel, while English versions featured voices by Lee Payant and Hal Brav.
The 2002 live-action production Asterix & Obelix: Mission Cleopatra, created by TF1 Films Production, starred Christian Clavier and Gérard Depardieu. This film achieved considerable commercial success in France.

An audiobook edition was also released by Hodder Children's Audio, adapted by Anthea Bell and Derek Hockridge, with narration provided by Willie Rushton.

External links

Asterix and Cleopatra Official English Site