This paper discusses Xu Zhongyu's various contributions to the field of ancient Chinese literary theory. As a professional in this field, he devoted to it more than 80 years of his life. As a patriot, Xu Zhongyu, in the early stage of reform and opening up, took the initiative to emancipated his mind, and became an exemplary explorer who dared to enter the academic forbidden area, to innovate and to seek truth from facts. Xu Zhongyu was open-minded in terms of academic vision and eclectic in his research approach. With his singular academic vision, he made outstanding achievements in many aspects and accumulated rich and profound academic experience. In addition, Xu Zhongyu was renowned for his contributions to the organization and management of the ancient Chinese literary theory society, as well as his efforts to guide and support young scholars.