Modern French Prisons Bicêtre; St. Pélagie; St. Lazare; La Force; The Conciergerie; La Grande and La Petite Roquettes; Mazas; La Santé

"Modern French Prisons" by Arthur Griffiths is a late 19th-century historical work that explores the French prison system's transformation, especially after the Revolution, shedding light on penal changes. Griffiths, who worked inspecting prisons, writes about the moral and structural aspects of prisons in France and the problems of truly reforming criminals instead of just punishing them. This book begins by talking about prison reform during a time of change in France, highlighting the French government's goal after the Revolution to create a new and improved system, moving away from a more cruel past. Griffiths gives historical details about famous prisons like Bicêtre and La Conciergerie, showing the horrible conditions prisoners faced and how old ways of punishment did not work. Stories of prisoner mistreatment, unfair treatment between wealthy and poor prisoners, and a lack of focus on helping prisoners become better people point out how the system was failing.