We present a quantum theory of slow light beyond the weak probe pulse approximation. By reduction of the full Hamiltonian of the system to an effective Hamiltonian for a single quantum field we demonstrate that the concept of dark-state polaritons can be introduced even if the linearized approach is no longer valid. The developed approach allows us to study the evolution of nonclassical quantum states of the polariton field.

• Received 14 April 2014

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevA.90.063837