The Bekenstein formula and string theory (N-brane theory)

A review of recent progress in string theory concerning the Bekenstein formula for black hole entropy is given. Topics discussed include p -branes, D-branes and supersymmetry; the correspondence principle; the D- and M-brane approach to black hole entropy; the D-brane analogue of Hawking radiation and information loss; D-branes as probes of black holes and the matrix theory approach to charged and neutral black holes. Some introductory material is included, as are some very brief remarks on the AdS/CFT correspondence.