Applications of the theory of evolution equations to general relativity

The theory of evolution equations has been applied in various ways in general relativity. Following some general considerations about this, some illustrative examples of the use of ordinary differential equations in general relativity are presented. After this recent applications of Fuchsian equations are described, with particular attention to work on the structure of singularities of solutions of the Einstein equations coupled to a massless scalar field. Next the relations between analytical and numerical studies of the Einstein equations are discussed. Finally an attempt is made to identify fruitful directions for future research within the analytic approach to the study of the Einstein equations.