How does the narrative structure of The Time of Contempt, which shifts from political intrigue to chaos after the Thanedd coup, mirror the novel’s central theme of institutional collapse?

How do characters like Vilgefortz, Dijkstra, and Codringher each present a different philosophy of power and pragmatism? How do their worldviews collectively challenge Geralt’s beliefs?

How do key locations in the novel act as symbols for larger institutions or states of being? Consider the Aretuza, Codringher and Fenn’s office, and the forest of Brokilon.