I have not read this book, so I don't know the character you're referring to. Sorry.
Here's a good explanation of the different types of conflict:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conflict_(narrative)
Be sure to read section 1.4.
In the novel 'Strange Objects' by Gary Crew, What is the role of Steven Messenger? and 'How does this text explore the concept,man versus nature'?
2 answers
This site may help you with this:
http://www.jiskha.com/english/books_novels_and_plays/strange_objects.html
http://www.jiskha.com/english/books_novels_and_plays/strange_objects.html