René Goscinny: The comic strip genius who revolutionized the art of laughter

René Goscinny was a true master of comics. His humor, imagination, and writing talent left a lasting mark on the world of comics and children's literature. His work continues to inspire and entertain readers of all ages, making him one of the most important French authors of the 20th century.

Childhood and early life

René Goscinny was born on August 14, 1926 in Paris. His childhood was marked by a trip to Argentina where he moved because of his father's job. It was there that he discovered comics and became passionate about the works of illustrators such as Harold Foster (Prince Valiant) and Alex Raymond (Flash Gordon). He spent his adolescence back in France without forgetting his passion.

In 1945, he moved to New York where he met talented cartoonists such as Harvey Kurtzman (MAD) and Will Elder (MAD). It was with them that he participated in the creation of Mad magazine, a major turning point in his career.

René Goscinny

Birth of an Empire: Pilot and Asterix

In 1951, Goscinny returned to France and began collaborating with various magazines and newspapers. Back on the continent, Goscinny refined his humorous style and collaborative approach by working with artists such as Jacques Kamb (Pif Gadget) and Morris (Lucky Luke). His lively humor and endearing characters earned him growing success. In 1959, he co-founded the magazine Pilote with Albert Uderzo. It was in the pages of this magazine that the adventure that would make him famous began: Asterix the Gaul.

A global success

The adventures of Asterix and Obelix, the irrepressible Gauls facing the Roman invaders, were an immediate success. Translated into more than 100 languages, the albums sold by the millions throughout the world. Goscinny became one of the most popular and influential comic book authors of his time.

Asterix & Obelix

A jack-of-all-trades talent

In addition to Asterix, Goscinny wrote the stories of many other iconic characters, such as Lucky Luke, Iznogoud, Little Nicolas and the Daltons. He also excelled in writing scripts for animated films. His talent for humour and his sense of repartee made him an essential author of comics.

Goscinny's work is very rich and varied. He explores different genres, from adventure comics to comedy to science fiction. His stories take place in a variety of universes, from ancient Gaul to the Far West to the modern world.

Lucky Luke

A unique style

Goscinny's style is characterized by its lively and intelligent humor, often tinged with satire. He excels at creating funny and endearing characters, with whom the reader easily identifies. His dialogues are sparkling and full of wordplay, and his stories are full of funny situations and unexpected twists.

Behind Goscinny's humor often lies a fine and subtle social critique. Beyond American comics, Goscinny draws inspiration from European humor, notably from Jacques Tati and the tradition of French satire, which is reflected in his subtle social commentaries. He does not hesitate to denounce the injustices and failings of society, notably through his secondary characters. His albums are thus a source of reflection for readers of all ages.

An invaluable heritage

René Goscinny died suddenly on November 5, 1977 in Paris, at the age of 51. His death leaves a huge void in the world of comics. But his work, full of humor, intelligence and humanity, continues to touch and entertain generations of readers around the world.

Some highlights

• Goscinny wrote more than 1,500 comic strip scripts.
• Asterix albums have sold more than 385 million copies worldwide.
• He received numerous awards, including the Prix Saint-Michel in 1974 and the Prix Angoulême in 1975.
• An asteroid is named after him.