In this paper, we will start by presenting, in schematic form, the principal theses discussed in Michel Foucault’s book. Then, we will devote the second part to a deeper understanding of the principal parts of the argumentation he develops and we will see how some of the themes he develops are of a more immediate interest to the criminologist, either because they converge with research in criminology or because they constitute a critique of it. Then, we will raise certain points that concern the method used by Foucault. This part of our argument will be more critical. Finally, we will conclude with a recall of Foucault’s conclusions on the birth of criminology. We will then attempt to shed light on what criminological studies should retain of Michel Foucault’s book, furthermore about what he has taught us, from a documentary point of view, of the birth of the prison.