1. Zealous Puritan: Cheever is portrayed as a devout Puritan who strongly believes in the principles and teachings of his religion. He is committed to upholding the strict moral and religious code of the community and is quick to point out any perceived transgressions.
2. Religious Hypocrisy: Despite his outward display of religious piety, Cheever's actions suggest that he is not entirely virtuous. He is eager to accuse others of witchcraft and seems to enjoy the power that his position as clerk gives him over his fellow citizens.
3. Moral Ambiguity: Cheever is not a purely evil character, as he does show some moments of compassion and reluctance in carrying out the harsh punishments demanded by the court. However, his fear of being accused of witchcraft himself and his desire to maintain his position in the community lead him to make questionable choices.
4. Weakness and Fear: Cheever is ultimately a weak character who is easily swayed by those in positions of power. He lacks the courage to stand up for what is right and becomes a pawn in the hands of more ruthless and manipulative figures like Judge Danforth and Abigail Williams.
5. Guilt and Regret: As the play progresses, Cheever begins to feel guilt and regret over the role he has played in condemning innocent people. However, he is unable to redeem himself fully, as he remains trapped in the web of fear and conformity that permeates the community.
Overall, Ezekiel Cheever's character serves to highlight the dangers of religious extremism, moral hypocrisy, and the consequences of allowing fear and conformity to dictate one's actions. His journey illustrates the tragic descent of a supposedly pious man into complicity in the persecution of innocent individuals.