String Theory (2 Volume Set) (Cambridge Monographs on Mathematical Physics)

Available for the first time in paperback, String Theory comprises two volumes which present an up-to-date, comprehensive account of the subject. Volume 1, An Introduction to the Bosonic String, provides a thorough introduction to the bosonic string, based on the Polyakov path integral and conformal field theory. Volume 2, Superstring Theory and Beyond, begins with an introduction to supersymmetric string theories and progresses to a broad presentation of the important advances of recent years. Both volumes contain an annotated reference section, and a detailed glossary of important terms and concepts. Many exercises are included to re-inforce the text's main points as well as stimulate additional ideas. The volumes are an essential text/reference for graduate students and researchers in theoretical physics, particle physics and relativity.