In this series of lectures I will discuss representations of semisimple Lie algebras in very large positive characteristic. These lectures are an introduction to my joint work in progress with Bezrukavnikov, where we establish explicit character formulas for irreducible objects in suitable categories of representations of semisimple Lie algebras. I will start from basics and will not assume any preliminary familiarity with the subject. This two-lecture series will take place on Friday, May 10 from 3-4pm and Monday, May 13 3-5pm. Please note the irregular meeting time.