Obelix and Co.
One giant man, one menhir empire, and a business plan that buckles under its own mass.
In Obelix and Co., the village's strongest man does the one thing nobody expected from the Asterix series sidekick: he spins up his own menhir-delivery outfit and starts shipping stone across Gaul and beyond. The whole affair is a comedy about what happens when a giant treats a corporation like a food trough — no tradition, no safety protocols, just raw entrepreneurial momentum. Capitalism, labor disputes, and the sheer physics of scale all collide the moment one very committed man decides 'expansion' means stacking more menhirs.
- protagonist
- Obelix
- supporting_cast
- Asterix, Getafix, Vitalstatistix
- primary_setting
- Gaul and the Roman Empire
- key_theme
- Entrepreneurship vs. Tradition
- publication_order
- 13th album in original sequence
Lore & Background
The story also delves into the absurdity of industrialization within a prehistoric setting. As Obelix attempts to scale his operations, he faces challenges from Roman competitors and internal strife among his employees. The humor arises from the juxtaposition of ancient customs with corporate greed, as well as the physical comedy of Obelix trying to manage a workforce that includes both Gauls and Romans.
In Their Own Story
The sun rises over the forest as Obelix hoists a massive menhir onto a wooden cart, his eyes gleaming with ambition. 'This is it,' he declares to Asterix, who stands nearby with arms crossed. 'Obelix and Co., the greatest delivery service in Gaul!' But as they set off, the wheels creak ominously, and a Roman patrol appears on the horizon, armed with nets and skepticism.
Reader's Guide
The album begins with Obelix's frustration over delayed menhir deliveries, prompting him to start his own company. He recruits Asterix, who reluctantly agrees to help manage operations. The duo faces immediate challenges as they try to outcompete Roman suppliers and deal with labor issues among their workers.
As the business grows, so do the complications. Obelix's lack of experience in management leads to chaotic situations, including a strike by his employees and a rivalry with a cunning Roman entrepreneur. The story takes a twist when Obelix realizes that his strength alone cannot solve every problem, especially those rooted in human nature.
Ultimately, the adventure concludes with Obelix returning to his simpler life, having learned valuable lessons about teamwork and humility. The album is notable for its satirical take on capitalism and remains a favorite among fans for its clever humor and dynamic character interactions.
Did You Know?
- This was one of the few albums where Obelix takes the lead role instead of Asterix.
- The story includes a humorous depiction of labor strikes, reflecting real-world issues through a prehistoric lens.
- Obelix's company briefly employs both Gauls and Romans, showcasing an unusual alliance in their ongoing conflict.
More in Albums & Adventures
Elsewhere in the Asterix universe
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