Towards a Synthesis of Core-Collapse Supernova Theory

New insights into the mechanism and character of core–collapse supernova explosions are transforming the approach of theorists to their subject. The universal realization that the direct hydrodynamic mechanism does not work and that a variety of hydrodynamic instabilities can influence the viability of theoretical explosions has ushered in a new era in supernova modeling. In this paper, I discuss the important physical and technical issues that remain. I review the neutrino–driven mechanism, the possible roles of Rayleigh–Taylor instabilities, questions in neutrino transport, and the various observational constraints within which theorists must operate. However, a consensus has yet to be achieved among active workers concerning many important details and some essential phenomenology. This synopsis is meant to accomplish two things: 1) to focus attention on the interesting problems whose resolution will bring needed progress, and 2) to assess the current status of the theoretical art.