Gauged Extended Field Theory and Generalised Cartan Geometry

Abstract

Cartan geometry provides a unifying algebraic construction of curvature and torsion, based on an underlying model Lie algebra -- a viewpoint that can be extended naturally to the higher algebraic structures underlying supergravity. We present a Cartan-geometric framework for generalised geometries governed by a differential graded Lie algebra, extending previous results. The extended tangent bundle admits the action of both a global duality group $\mathcal{G}$ and a local gauge group $H$. This algebraic structure is implemented via a brane current algebra -- the phase space Poisson structure of $p$-branes. Within this Cartan-inspired framework, we define a hierarchy of generalised connections and compute their linearised torsion and curvature tensors, including the higher curvatures required by the tensor hierarchy. This provides a systematic construction of curvature and torsion tensors in generic generalised geometries.