What changes thematically once it becomes clear that Winston is both the Regent and Monte? How does Dan Brown subvert expectations by making Winston the antagonist?

What view of radicalization does the novel present? How do people become radicalized on both sides, and how are they exploited for power?

Why does Brown create a villain in Bishop Valdespino, only to dispel the suspicions in the third act? How else does Brown use red herrings throughout?