What did cutpurses do in shakespeares time?

Answer 1

They did exactly what it sounds like. People used to have their money pouches tied to them with a cord. So a cutpurse was like a pickpocket with a knife - a quick slash, and your money pouch was gone.

Answer 2

In Shakespeare's time, cutpurses were thieves who specialized in stealing items, such as money and valuables, from unsuspecting individuals in crowded areas, such as markets and theaters. They would often work in groups and use distraction techniques to commit their crimes.