On Classification of N=2 Supersymmetric Theories, (e-mail uncorrupted version)

We find a relation between the spectrum of solitons of massive $N=2$ quantum field theories in $d=2$ and the scaling dimensions of chiral fields at the conformal point. The condition that the scaling dimensions be real imposes restrictions on the soliton numbers and leads to a classification program for symmetric $N=2$ conformal theories and their massive deformations in terms of a suitable generalization of Dynkin diagrams (which coincides with the A--D--E Dynkin diagrams for minimal models). The Landau-Ginzburg theories are a proper subset of this classification. In the particular case of LG theories we relate the soliton numbers with intersection of vanishing cycles of the corresponding singularity; the relation between soliton numbers and the scaling dimensions in this particular case is a well known application of Picard-Lefschetz theory.Comment: 116 pages, HUTP-92/A064 and SISSA-203/92/E

An Introduction to Hodge Structures

We begin by introducing the concept of a Hodge structure and give some of its basic properties, including the Hodge and Lefschetz decompositions. We then define the period map, which relates families of Kahler manifolds to the families of Hodge structures defined on their cohomology, and discuss its properties. This will lead us to the more general definition of a variation of Hodge structure and the Gauss-Manin connection. We then review the basics about mixed Hodge structures with a view towards degenerations of Hodge structures; including the canonical extension of a vector bundle with connection, Schmid's limiting mixed Hodge structure and Steenbrink's work in the geometric setting. Finally, we give an outlook about Hodge theory in the Gross-Siebert program