The essence of modern theatre, as perceived by the author, is encapsulated in a single comic book: ”Asterix and the Treasure.” This seemingly lighthearted source unveils a profound commentary on the nature of theatrical provocation and its often-futile attempts to genuinely shock or engage its audience. The character of Eleonoradus, a theatrical director with a penchant for the dramatic, embodies this struggle. His name, a nod to the famed Italian actress Eleonora Duse, contrasts sharply with his physical resemblance to the more contemporary French actor Laurent Terzieff, perhaps hinting at a disconnect between his artistic aspirations and the reality of his theatrical productions. Eleonoradus’s fervent cries for ”orgies” and his desire to ”revolutionize theatre” by shocking the audience ironically become the very symbols of theatrical clichés and predictable attempts at provocation. This, the author suggests, is the crux of the issue: the desire to shock often falls flat, becoming a parody of itself.
The author’s experience with contemporary theatre echoes the farcical nature of Eleonoradus’s theatrical endeavors. Plays by Lars Norén and his followers, aiming for profound impact, often evoke in the author not contemplation, but rather a wry, internal recitation of Eleonoradus’s cry for “orgies.” This serves as a humorous commentary on the perceived gap between intention and execution in modern theatre’s pursuit of shocking its audience. The comedic high point of ”Asterix and the Treasure,” and the most poignant example of this theatrical futility, is when the actors directly address the audience with insults like ”So ugly you are!” The Roman elite, however, instead of being offended, revel in this perceived “truth,” highlighting the disconnect between intended provocation and actual reception. These attempts at shocking the audience, the author argues, become not just ineffective but almost comical in their predictability.
The author’s long search for a copy of ”Asterix and the Treasure” finally culminated in a Christmas gift, confirming their childhood memories of the comic’s brilliance. The “Treasure,” unlike other Asterix albums, derives its strength not from slapstick humor, but from a surprising depth and darkness. This melancholic undercurrent, exemplified by Asterix’s exile and despair upon losing the village treasure, elevates the story beyond simple entertainment. This thematic depth resonates with other masterpieces of French-Belgian comics’ golden age. ”The Calvary is Coming” stands out for its poignant portrayal of the Mac Straggle family’s struggles within the cavalry, while ”Tintin in Tibet” achieves emotional depth through the threat of loss and the ultimate parting with Chang. These stories, the author suggests, find their power not in grand gestures, but in the quieter moments of vulnerability and emotional resonance.
This theme of vulnerability finds a parallel in Asterix’s own experiences within ”The Treasure.” The author, even as a child, could empathize with Asterix’s deep sorrow and frustration at his exile and his failed attempts to recover the lost treasure. This emotional connection transcends the comedic aspects of the story and taps into a more universal human experience of loss and despair. Even Eleonoradus, in his theatrical pursuits, exhibits a form of vulnerability. His relentless, albeit misguided, attempts at provocation suggest a deep-seated desire for recognition and connection. His eventual acceptance of being thrown to the lions, viewing it as his ultimate performance, reveals a strange sense of fulfillment in the face of perceived failure.
The darkness in ”Asterix and the Treasure” is not merely a backdrop; it’s integral to the story’s impact. Asterix’s journey, fueled by desperation and punctuated by setbacks, becomes a poignant exploration of failure and resilience. This thematic depth sets ”The Treasure” apart from other Asterix adventures and contributes to its enduring appeal. The juxtaposition of humor and darkness, the author argues, is what makes this particular Asterix album so memorable. It’s not just a funny story; it’s a story about loss, desperation, and the ultimately futile nature of theatrical provocation as exemplified by Eleonoradus.
”Asterix and the Treasure” thus serves as a microcosm of the author’s views on modern theatre. It satirizes the often-misguided attempts at provocation, highlighting the disconnect between intention and impact. The comic’s brilliance, however, lies not only in its satirical portrayal of theatrical clichés but also in its surprisingly nuanced exploration of darker themes like loss, despair, and the struggle for recognition. The connection between Asterix’s emotional journey and Eleonoradus’s theatrical aspirations underscores a central point: true impact often lies not in grand pronouncements or shocking pronouncements, but in the quieter moments of vulnerability and genuine human experience.
