Classical String Solitons

Abstract

We discuss some recent work in the field of classical solitonic solutions in string theory. In particular, we construct instanton and monopole solutions and discuss the dynamics of string-like solitons. Some of the motivation behind this work is that instantons may provide a nonperturbative understanding of the vacuum structure of string theory, while monopoles may appear in string predictions for grand unification. The string-like solitons represent extended states of fundamental strings. The essential role of supersymmetry in both the saturation of the Bogomol'nyi bound and in the cancellation of higher order corrections is emphasized. (Talk given at the International Workshop: ``Recent Advances in the Superworld'', Houston Advanced Research Center, The Woodlands, TX, April 14-16, 1993.)