Romeo and Juliet 1.1 Word Nerd: "shrift"

The transcript explains the historical evolution of the words 'shrive' and 'shrift'. Initially, 'shrive' meant to write, and 'shrift' referred to what was written down, primarily by priests in the Middle Ages. Over time, 'shrift' came to mean the list of penitences given by priests and later the act of confession itself. Montague uses 'shrift' in a broader sense to mean revealing secrets, as he wants Benvolio to learn the true reason for Romeo's lovesickness.

What did the word 'shrive' mean in the early Middle Ages?

What was a 'shrift' originally understood to be?

Who were the primary individuals that could write during the early Middle Ages?

How did the meaning of 'shrift' evolve over time?

In what context is Montague using the term 'shrift'?