H. Dorn, D. Lüst, G. Weight (eds.) Theory of Elementary Particles Following a long-standing tradition, the 1997 Symposium Ahrenshoop brought together a remarkable set of leading scientists in both string theory and lattice theory. The contributions in this volume represent a big part of the most active research in these rapidly advancing fields. Experts from Europe, the USA, Russia, India and Japan discuss their recent results on strings, branes, M-theory, lattice gauge theory and non-perturbative QCD. A major issue is the comparison of non-perturbative results obtained in (supersymmetric) field theories or superstring theory with results from lattice models. An invaluable source of topical information for every scientist working in elementary particle theory!

The great success of the experimental research on elementary particles and their qualities during the last years suggests giving a summary of the present situation also in the theoretical description of this important branch of physics. In spite of the precarious situation in this field of theoretical physics I believe I can fully account for this choice and must see that the number of participants and the general interest justify my opinion. In organizing the proceedings it was our prime concern to reduce the delay in editing and also keep down the price. This was possihle only through the assistance of the Springer-Verlag who chose photomechanical method working quicker and cheaper. Therefore we apologize for any mistakes and errors that may occur in the text and formulae. I am very indebted to my secretary, Miss A. SCHMALDIENST and one of my assistants, Dr. H. KÜHNELT, who did an the typing and correcting of the manu scripts with great patience and knowledge.

The great success of the experimental research on elementary particles and their qualities during the last years suggests giving a summary of the present situation also in the theoretical description of this important branch of physics. In spite of the precarious situation in this field of theoretical physics I believe I can fully account for this choice and must see that the number of participants and the general interest justify my opinion. In organizing the proceedings it was our prime concern to reduce the delay in editing and also keep down the price. This was possihle only through the assistance of the Springer-Verlag who chose photomechanical method working quicker and cheaper. Therefore we apologize for any mistakes and errors that may occur in the text and formulae. I am very indebted to my secretary, Miss A. SCHMALDIENST and one of my assistants, Dr. H. KÜHNELT, who did an the typing and correcting of the manu scripts with great patience and knowledge.