Lecture 5: Semisimple Lie Algebras over C

In this lecture I will explain the classification of finite dimensional semisimple Lie algebras over C. Semisimple Lie algebras are defined similarly to semisimple finite dimensional associative algebras but are far more interesting and rich. The classification reduces to that of simple Lie algebras (i.e., Lie algebras with non-zero bracket and no proper ideals). The classification (initially due to Cartan and Killing) is basically in three steps. 1) Using the structure theory of simple Lie algebras, produce a combinatorial datum, the root system. 2) Study root systems combinatorially arriving at equivalent data (Cartan matrix/ Dynkin diagram). 3) Given a Cartan matrix, produce a simple Lie algebra by generators and relations. In this lecture, we will cover the first two steps. The third step will be carried in Lecture 6.