Wednesday, 4 February 2026

ASTÉRIX & THE CAULDRON IN DÉCINES-CHARPIEU, LYON

Today, Joseph de Ca'th Lon is in Décines-Charpieu, Lyon to see the Northern Star, who has an important match this afternoon.

The weather is sunny with some clouds, the temperature does not rise above 10 degrees, and the climate is oceanic to semi-continental, with a breeze that reinforces the feeling of cold.

To avoid this, Joseph has decided that nothing is better than having a good coffee and eating some delicious choux pastry while reading a new Astérix adventure, this time, Astérix and the Cauldron.

Astérix and the Cauldron is the thirteenth volume of the Astérix comic book series, by René Goscinny (stories) and Albert Uderzo (illustrations). 

It was first serialized in the magazine Pilote, issues 469-491, in 1968, and translated into English in 1976.

When Obélix suggests they get paid by telling people their adventures, Astérix rejects the idea as unlikely to raise any money. The joke is that, by this time, the series had made Goscinny and Uderzo very wealthy.

When Roman dignitaries assemble at the theatre, Uderzo (in Roman costume) is shown talking to the Prefect, while Goscinny, on the right, amuses his neighbours with jokes.

The tax collector in the book appears to be a caricature of Valéry Giscard d'Estaing, then the French minister of finance, who later became president.

Two of the actors in the theatre are named Laurensolivius and Alecginus.

This is the first and only volume in which the pirates enjoy a happy ending, and the first of the few rare stories where their ship is not sunk (though they have already taken a beating earlier in this episode).

The fight at the end of the story is one of the rare times Astérix is seen using his sword, although he always carries it with him.

Astérix's unraveling of the plot is a reference to the Roman proverb Pecunia non olet (money does not stink).

In earlier editions, the colour of the breeches of the Roman legionaries changed from white to red.

Key Lessons From Asterix And The Cauldron

Friendship and loyalty. The book showcases the strong bond of friendship and loyalty between Astérix and Obélix. Despite facing challenges and difficulties, they always stand by each other and support one another.

Greed and corruption. The story revolves around the theme of greed and corruption. The Gauls come across a wealthy Roman who is involved in various corrupt practices. The book highlights the negative consequences of greed and the importance of standing up against corruption.

Courage and bravery. Astérix and Obélix display great courage and bravery throughout the book. They take on challenging tasks and face dangerous situations fearlessly. Their determination and bravery inspire others to join their cause and stand up for what is right.

Importance of unity. The book emphasizes the importance of unity and teamwork. The Gauls, despite their differences, come together to overcome obstacles and fight against their common enemy. This highlights the strength that can be achieved when people work together towards a common goal.

The triumph of the underdog. Astérix and Obélix, who are often underestimated due to their small stature, triumph over their enemies and emerge victories. This teaches readers the important lesson that one's size or appearance does not determine their abilities or potential for success.

Download Astérix and The Cauldron by R. Goscinny & A. Uderzo

Nothing brings our village together like a good feast.

Astèrix

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