'Every so often there is a rebellion against the assumption that Shakespeare is a uniquely great writer. This feeling has vociferous supporters in the academics, teachers who want to be rid of what they regard as heritage lumber. There are alsothose, in my view almost equally wrong-headed, who continue to adore the Bard without giving much thought to the problems he sets. My belief is that, like the very critical Ben Jonson, we need not shrink from saying that some of the work is mediocre or worse. What we do need is new ways os saying why the best of him realy is the best.' Kermode talks to theatre Director, Richard Eyre.