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List of Asterix characters

From Alfawiki
Asterix
IndustryComics
Founded1959
FounderRené Goscinny, Albert Uderzo
ProductsComic book series

This article provides an overview of characters featured in the Asterix comic series.

Main characters

The central figures—Asterix, Obelix, and Dogmatix—are typically introduced at the beginning of each Asterix volume, usually following the Gaul map. Each character has a dedicated page offering further information. The names used here correspond to those found in the English versions.

Asterix

Asterix serves as the principal hero: a courageous, clever, and resourceful warrior of diminutive size who embarks on dangerous quests.

Obelix

Obelix, who is Asterix’s best companion, is a large and sturdy menhir craftsman and deliveryman, recognized for his constant superhuman strength and voracious appetite, particularly for wild boar. His extraordinary power originates from an accidental fall into Getafix’s magic potion cauldron during childhood, which prevents him from consuming more potion due to possible adverse effects. Obelix’s physical bulk and eating habits are often played for comedic effect; for instance, in Asterix and the Big Fight, he briefly attempts dieting but soon reverts to his usual indulgence.

Dogmatix

Making his debut in Asterix and the Banquet, Dogmatix is Obelix’s small yet spirited canine companion. Officially adopted in Asterix and Cleopatra, he travels alongside Asterix and Obelix on their adventures. Dogmatix exhibits early signs of environmental concern, reacting strongly when trees are damaged, and shows jealousy toward women favored by Obelix.

Major recurring characters

In most Asterix stories, key supporting characters such as Getafix, Cacofonix, and Vitalstatistix are introduced alongside the main trio regardless of their involvement in that particular narrative.

Unless otherwise specified, all prominent characters first appear in Asterix the Gaul.

Getafix

Getafix is the village druid responsible for brewing the magic potion that grants extraordinary strength to the inhabitants. He is depicted as tall with a long white beard, a hooked nose, clad in a white robe with a red cloak, and carrying a small golden sickle. Although his precise age is never revealed, he remains visually unchanged over time and is respected as an elder among druids.

Besides the renowned strength potion, Getafix concocts various magical and medicinal brews including potions that stimulate rapid hair growth, antidotes to poisons, and healing remedies—some of which may cause side effects like memory loss. He acts as both the village healer and occasional instructor, often consulted when unusual circumstances arise. Physical combat is rare for him; however, he notably engages in battle against Romans in The Great Divide.

As the exclusive creator of the magic potion, Getafix plays a pivotal role in numerous plots involving Roman threats or quests for rare ingredients. He sometimes refuses to provide the potion when villagers behave selfishly—as seen during leadership conflicts in Asterix and Caesar's Gift. Enemies have captured him on occasion seeking control over the potion but he is usually rescued by Asterix and Obelix. The complete recipe remains confidential; known components include mistletoe (harvested with a golden sickle), lobster (optional for taste), fresh fish, salt, and rock oil (later substituted with beetroot juice). Shortages of ingredients have led to adventures such as those depicted in Asterix and the Great Crossing and Asterix and the Black Gold.

Getafix represents the wise mentor archetype akin to Merlin or Gandalf but was originally portrayed more as a humorous companion than a solemn advisor.

Vitalstatistix

The Gaulish village is governed by Chief Vitalstatistix, a middle-aged man characterized by his prominent belly, red hair tied into pigtails, and a thick moustache. He is generally sensible, knowledgeable, courageous, and composed, exhibiting little ambition—a fact that often frustrates his wife, Impedimenta. His notable flaws include a fondness for fine food and drink as well as a strong sense of pride. As part of his chiefdom, he is carried around on a shield by two shield-bearers, a recurring source of humor as he frequently tumbles off. The identities of these bearers remain undisclosed.

Prior to assuming leadership, Vitalstatistix fought during the battle of Alesia, where Caesar nearly subdued Gaul. In the story Asterix and the Chieftain's Shield, it is revealed that the shield he rides upon once belonged to the famed Gaulish leader Vercingetorix. His father previously held the position of village chief. Additionally, he has a brother named Doublehelix residing in Lutetia, who has two children including Justforkix.

Each narrative introduction highlights Vitalstatistix’s sole fear: "that the sky might fall on his head tomorrow," commonly used as a rallying motto: "We have nothing to fear but...". This notion reflects an ancient anecdote where Gallic leaders told Alexander the Great their greatest dread was the sky collapsing upon them.

While often playing minor roles in various stories, Vitalstatistix takes center stage in several key titles such as Asterix and the Big Fight, Asterix and the Chieftain's Shield, Asterix in Belgium, and Asterix and Caesar's Gift.

The Chief's shield-bearers

Starting from Asterix and Caesar's Gift, Vitalstatistix consistently employs the same pair of unnamed shield-bearers; earlier albums depicted different bearers each time. In Asterix in Switzerland, after dismissing his bearers for looking upwards on a sunny day—which caused him to fall—he recruits replacements including Asterix, Geriatrix, Fulliautomatix, and Obelix. These new bearers struggle to keep the shield level, resulting in Vitalstatistix standing at a noticeable tilt; Obelix notably supports him with one hand in a waiter-like manner. The introductory pages alternate between showing bearers straining under his weight or gazing up at him with respectful amusement.

Impedimenta

First appearance: Asterix and the Big Fight (named in Asterix and the Chieftain's Shield).

Impedimenta is the assertive wife of chief Vitalstatistix, who considers herself leader of the village women and prides herself on being the best cook. She often disparages other villagers as barbarians and wishes her husband possessed greater ambition. She eagerly claims special treatment as first lady, frequently stating, "After all, I'm the chief's wife," to justify skipping lines. She regularly expresses a wish to move back to Lutetia to live with her prosperous merchant brother, Homeopathix, whom Vitalstatistix dislikes.

Although typically portrayed as nagging, Impedimenta has demonstrated courage by fighting alongside men against Roman forces using her rolling pin. Notably, in Asterix and Son she leads women defending Caesarion, and in Asterix and the Secret Weapon she takes over village leadership after her husband is temporarily removed from power.

Her name likely originates from the Latin military term impedimenta (meaning baggage) or from the English word impediment (meaning obstacle).

Cacofonix

Cacofonix serves as the village bard, usually appearing as a secondary character but playing a prominent role in certain stories such as Asterix and the Normans, Asterix the Gladiator, and The Mansions of the Gods. He is enthusiastic about singing and playing instruments like the lyre, yet his vocal performances are notoriously unpleasant to his fellow villagers. Starting with the album Magic Carpet, his singing is depicted as so dreadful that it triggers indoor thunderstorms, alluding to a French proverb associating poor singing with rainfall. Cacofonix views himself as a musical prodigy and reacts strongly to any criticism, dismissing those who disapprove of his art as uncultured. His voice even intimidates the Normans in Asterix and the Normans.

Most villagers steer clear of his musical attempts; notably, Fulliautomatix often strikes him at the first sign of song. A recurring joke involves Cacofonix being tied up and gagged during feasts so others can enjoy themselves without disturbance. Nevertheless, he remains a well-regarded figure when silent.

Some younger characters show appreciation for his abilities: Justforkix, in Asterix and the Normans, encourages him to relocate to Lutetia, where his music might be better appreciated; similarly, village youths enjoy his style in Asterix and the Chieftain's Daughter. In Asterix and Caesar's Gift, it is revealed that he authored "We Shall Overcome."

Unlike other villagers whose huts rest at ground level, Cacofonix’s dwelling is built in a tree—ostensibly for lookout purposes but primarily to keep his music at a distance from others.

Together with Getafix, he fulfills the role of village educator since only bards and druids are permitted to teach in their school.

Geriatrix

First Appearance: Asterix the Gladiator; first named in Asterix at the Olympic Games

Geriatrix holds the distinction of being the oldest inhabitant of Asterix’s village, recorded as 93 years old in Asterix at the Olympic Games. He insists on respect due to his age but resents being treated as feeble, often responding fiercely to any age-related insult.

As a veteran of both the Battle of Gergovia and Battle of Alesia, Geriatrix frequently invokes these historic battles when excited or upset. He is notably protective of his very young and attractive wife, especially when Obelix is nearby.

In prequels like How Obelix Fell into the Magic Potion When he was a Little Boy, Geriatrix’s character remains consistent alongside Getafix, despite other characters appearing younger.

Mrs. Geriatrix

First Appearance: Asterix and the Roman Agent

Mrs. Geriatrix enjoys her position as spouse to the village’s eldest man, placing her among the influential group of village wives. She is considerably younger and taller than her husband, often dominating their household dynamic and frequently contradicting him. She advocates for progressive reforms within the village, as seen in Asterix and the Secret Weapon. Her character draws partial inspiration from Albert Uderzo’s wife and retains an element of mystery by never being officially named.

Unhygienix

First appearance: Asterix in Spain

Unhygienix functions as the village fishmonger, having inherited this role from his father Unhealthix. Although he owns a fishing vessel, he prefers to source fish from far-off places such as Lutetia (or Massilia in German editions), believing these supplies are superior. Unfortunately, his fish frequently spoil during transport, resulting in unpleasant odors and occasional food poisoning incidents. Unhygienix remains oblivious to these smells, which often sparks quarrels within the village—especially with blacksmith Fulliautomatix—a rivalry passed down from their fathers and continued by their children. His typical exclamation during disputes over his fish is a call to his wife: "Bacteria! Get the fish inside!" or "Save the sales!"

Bacteria

Debut: Asterix in Spain

Bacteria, spouse of Unhygienix, belongs to the core group of village wives. She aids her husband in managing their fish stall, which offers fish of dubious freshness, and remains indifferent to its unconventional applications. The couple has two sons: Blinix, who first appears in Asterix in Corsica, and another red-haired son featured in Asterix and the Secret Weapon. In Asterix and Obelix's Birthday: The Golden Book, Blinix assumes control of the shop, opting to source fish locally rather than importing from Lutetia, a decision that disappoints Unhygienix due to concerns over the shop’s standing.

Blinix

Debut: Asterix in Corsica Blinix, the son of Bacteria and Unhygienix, appears notably in Asterix and the Chieftain's Daughter, where he plays a role in aiding Adrenaline’s escape.

Fulliautomatix

Fulliautomatix serves as the village’s blacksmith, following in the footsteps of his father Semiautomatix. Recognized for his solid physique and considerable strength—only surpassed by Obelix—he is an essential member of the community. His initial appearance in Asterix the Gaul showcased his powerful ironworking skills, though he is later depicted wielding a more conventional hammer.

He maintains a playful rivalry with Unhygienix, frequently arguing about the freshness of fish sold at the market, often culminating in humorous exchanges involving thrown fish. Fulliautomatix is also known for persistently intimidating Cacofonix, the bard, discouraging him from singing due to its poor quality.

Throughout various albums, Fulliautomatix has two children: a blond son featured in Asterix in Corsica and a blond daughter shown in Asterix and the Secret Weapon. In Asterix and the Great Divide, he is accompanied by an apprentice who might be his grown son. In Asterix and the Chieftain's Daughter, a character resembling him is introduced as Selfipix, his eldest son. By the time of Asterix and Obelix's Birthday: The Golden Book, Fulliautomatix has aged considerably, with his adult son running the forge and crafting steel dentures for him after he loses his teeth.

Mrs. Fulliautomatix

Debut: Asterix and the Roman Agent

Mrs. Fulliautomatix is among the village wives’ close-knit circle. She is notably short with a sharp nose and holds dominance over her larger spouse. She once engaged in a fight with Chief Vitalstatistix’s wife (Asterix and the Class Act). Although she appears frequently throughout the series, her name remains undisclosed. She has also been seen physically reprimanding Cacofonix (Asterix and the Secret Weapon). Her brother is referenced by her husband in Asterix and the Black Gold.

Julius Caesar

Julius Caesar (Jules César) is portrayed as the Roman dictator and conqueror of Gaul, persistently attempting to subdue the final Gaulish village resisting Roman occupation. The village often thwarts his plans, causing embarrassment for him within the Roman senate, sometimes even provoking laughter after repeated failures. Despite these setbacks, Caesar demonstrates honor by granting favors when Asterix and Obelix assist him—for example, rebuilding their village following its destruction by Brutus during an attempt to abduct Cleopatra and Caesarion (Asterix and Son). His visual representation draws inspiration from ancient Roman coinage portraits.

The Pirates

Asterix and Obelix regularly face off against a band of pirates, often defeating them by sinking their vessel and inflicting financial setbacks. These pirates made their first appearance in Asterix the Gladiator and have since been featured in almost every following installment.

This group serves as a satire of the Belgian comic series Barbe Rouge (1959–present), which was originally published alongside Asterix in Pilote magazine. Although Barbe Rouge enjoys popularity across Europe, the Asterix pirate parody has eclipsed it in fame.

The pirates exhibit such a strong fear of the Gauls that after unknowingly bringing Asterix aboard during the night, they abandon their own ship while the Gauls are asleep (Asterix in Corsica). On occasion, they even choose to scuttle their own ship ahead of any potential confrontation (Asterix and Cleopatra, The Magic Carpet). Conversely, during times of food scarcity, Asterix and Obelix have taken to boarding pirate ships to seize supplies (Asterix in Spain, The Great Crossing).

Key members of the pirate crew include:

  • Redbeard — the captain.
  • Pegleg — an elderly pirate with a wooden leg who frequently quotes Latin literature.
  • Pirate Lookout — an African lookout stationed in the crow's nest; initially characterized by distinctive speech patterns, later editions present him speaking standard British English.
  • Erix — son of Redbeard, appearing in Asterix and the Banquet and referenced as collateral for a new ship in Asterix and Cleopatra.

Several other crew members appear repeatedly as visual jokes, featuring caricatures such as Frankenstein’s monster and a Mongol warrior.

In cinematic versions, Erix substitutes Pegleg among the castaways alongside Redbeard.

Historical figures

Villagers

Gauls

  • Postaldistrix – The mail carrier responsible for delivering letters to Vitalstatistix and others; present from Asterix and the Normans through to Asterix and the Missing Scroll.
  • Panacea – Daughter of Soporifix residing in Condatum, she is the object of Obelix's affection. She appears across various albums including Asterix the Legionary, the animated film Asterix Versus Caesar, live-action film Asterix and Obelix vs Caesar, portrayed by Laetitia Casta, and by Angèle in Asterix & Obelix: The Middle Kingdom.
  • Tragicomix – Panacea's tall, muscular spouse who manages a livery stable in Condatum; featured in both Asterix the Legionary and Asterix and the Actress.
  • Justforkix – Vitalstatistix's nephew from the city, playing a central role in Asterix and the Normans, with appearances extending to related films and video games.
  • Cassius Ceramix – A Gallo-Roman leader allied with Romans to oppose Vitalstatistix; a proficient boxer whose name is a play on Cassius Clay.
  • Orthopaedix – An innkeeper from Arausio who contests Vitalstatistix for leadership after relocating to the village; seen in Asterix and Caesar's Gift.
  • Instantmix – Owner of a restaurant who assists Asterix and Obelix in Asterix the Gladiator, later appearing again in Asterix in Corsica.
  • Seniorservix – A sea captain hailing from Gesoriacum, appearing across several albums; his name alludes to a classic Royal Navy tobacco brand.
  • Homeopathix – Brother to Impedimenta, a prosperous merchant from Lutetia featured in Asterix and the Laurel Wreath. He is married to Tapioca (Galantine).
  • Prolix – A wandering soothsayer revealed as a charlatan by Getafix; appears throughout albums and films including Asterix and the Soothsayer.
  • Parents of Asterix & Obelix appear sporadically; they operate a modern goods shop located in Condatum:
    • Astronomix — Father of Asterix
    • Sarsaparilla — Mother of Asterix
    • Obeliscoidix — Father of Obelix
    • Vanilla — Mother of Obelix
  • Whosmoralsarelastix – Chief of an adjacent Gaulish village notorious for greediness and dealings with Romans; appears in Asterix and the Cauldron.
  • Adrenaline – Daughter of Vercingetorix, a rebellious teenager featured in Asterix and the Chieftain's Daughter, concealed from Roman re-education programs.

Romans

Others

  • Anticlimax – Asterix's cousin once removed, living in a British village opposing Roman rule, introduced in Asterix in Britain (also shown on the cover). He reappears in Asterix in Corsica and has a nephew who escapes captivity as a galley slave in Asterix and Obelix All at Sea.
  • Macaroon – A Pictish warrior covered in tattoos, discovered frozen on a shore; his first name is Crk, derived from the sound his punch makes. Asterix and Obelix accompany him back to his homeland in Asterix and the Picts. At first, he struggles with verbal communication, which Getafix describes as a 'tummy rumble'.
  • Camomilla – The daughter of the Pictish leader and betrothed to Macaroon.
  • McVicar – Leader of a competing Pictish clan allied with the Romans, identified by red and black tartans contrasting with Macaroon's yellow and green attire.
  • Mykingdomforanos, McAnix, and O'veroptimistix – Chiefs representing England, Scotland, and Ireland respectively, featured in both Asterix in Britain and Asterix in Corsica.
  • Petitsuix – The Swiss tavern owner appearing in Asterix in Switzerland and Asterix in Corsica, his name is a pun on the French cheese petit suisse.
  • Pepe – The pampered son of an Iberian village chief resisting Roman forces; depicted on the cover of Asterix in Spain, where he is captured by Caesar but later freed by Asterix and Obelix. He presents challenges for both Gauls and Romans alike, enjoys Cacofonix's music, and shows fondness for Dogmatix. Pepe returns in Asterix in Corsica.
  • Ekonomikrisis – A Phoenician trader featured in Asterix the Gladiator, Asterix and the Black Gold, and Asterix and the Chieftain's Daughter, he assists with travel between Rome and Tyre. He also appears unnamed in the animated adaptation of Asterix In Britain.
  • Edifis – An Egyptian architect and longtime acquaintance of Getafix. His portrayal is more youthful and eccentric in the film Asterix & Obelix: Mission Cleopatra, with a brief appearance in Asterix at the Olympic Games.
  • Olaf Timandahaf – A Viking leader who abducts Justforkix in Asterix and the Normans. In the movie version, he has a spouse named Vikea and a daughter named Abba, who eventually weds Justforkix.
  • Demonix – A malevolent druid with pyrokinetic powers who competes against Getafix, seeking to steal the magic potion for destructive purposes; appears exclusively in Asterix: The Secret of the Magic Potion.
  • Cakemix, Atmospherix, and Phantasmagorix – Druids serving on the Grand Council, featured solely within Asterix: The Secret of the Magic Potion.
  • Cholerix – A druid apprentice coerced by Demonix to produce Getafix's potion; appears only in Asterix: The Secret of the Magic Potion.
  • Apothika – A female Gothic druid skilled in hypnosis and part-time therapist living in a swamp; she is a close confidante of Getafix, appearing exclusively in the Netflix mini-series Asterix and Obelix: The Big Fight.
  • Blackangus and Annabarbera – Sports commentators appearing only within the Netflix mini-series Asterix and Obelix: The Big Fight.

Caricatures

External links

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