Contents
Biography & Historical Record
Xu Yi (徐奕), courtesy name Jicai (季才), was a native of Dongguan, Langya. He was known for his upright character, integrity, and exceptional talent in selecting personnel. Initially serving under Cao Cao, he held positions such as Prefect of Wuyuan and Chief of Xiang. Due to his clean administration and ability to manage difficult people, he gained Cao Cao’s trust and was promoted to the position of Imperial Secretary (Shangshu). He was renowned for his strict adherence to the law and his refusal to show favoritism, even earning the deep respect of Cao Cao, who often sought his counsel regarding personnel appointments.
Role in Romance of the Three Kingdoms
In Luo Guanzhong’s novel, Xu Yi appears briefly as a loyal official serving the Wei regime. While he does not take center stage in martial conflicts, his character is portrayed as a quintessential ‘scholar-official’ who upholds order and loyalty within Cao Cao’s administration.
Xu Yi — Historical & Literary Timeline
219 AD
Death
Xu Yi passes away due to illness while serving in the Wei government.
Key Relationships
- Cao Cao
- Xu Yi served as a trusted advisor and official under Cao Cao, who valued his incorruptibility and keen eye for talent.
- Cui Yan
- Cui Yan was a fellow official and contemporary who highly respected Xu Yi’s integrity.
In History
Wei Official
- Xu Yi (徐奕, Từ Dịch) was a scholar-official who served the Cao Wei government.
Service under Cao Cao
- He was recognized for his learning and integrity and served within the administrative system created by Cao Cao (曹操, Tào Tháo).
Political Career
- Xu Yi was entrusted with official responsibilities and was regarded as a serious and principled administrator.
Legacy
- His career represents the scholar-official tradition that supported Cao Cao’s government and later became part of the institutional foundation of Cao Wei.