Claudius' guilt shows his aspirations of wanting Hamlet dead, as well as staying in power. As the king vents his thoughts in prayer, Hamlet is able to recognize he is in danger of being killed. By knowing this, he can avoid people who he feels are a threat to him. Hamlet's ability to manipulate Claudius proves he is more than capable of deceiving him. Claudius on the other hand, is not as successful because of his inability to be secretive. Claudius' plan with Laertes to kill Hamlet seems to be a smart decision made by the king. However, he does not tell Laertes to keep the plan a secret. Because of Claudius' carelessness, Hamlet is able to find out about the king's intentions, which collapses Claudius' plans. With Laertes telling Hamlet of his intentions to avenge his father's death, he accidentally betrays the king: "Whose motive in this case should stir me most/ To my revenge" (5.2.229-230). Claudius' nonchalance ends up being messing his plan, as Hamlet discovers their intention to kill. Both Claudius and Hamlet are alike in their manipulative ways and in hiding their emotions by acting differently. However, Claudius is unsuccessful at keeping his thoughts and plans away from Hamlet. Because of this flaw, Hamlet is able to take advantage and plan his revenge against him.
Both Claudius and Hamlet have a varying amount of people to trust, which impacts their ability to hide their true selves. Claudius trusts his wife about killing the former king, but forgets to tell her about no telling Hamlet. Hamlet is able to trick his mother into guilting the truth of Claudius murdering his father. This gives Hamlet the motivation and courage to seek vengeance at Claudius. The Queen accidentally exposes Claudius; "These words like daggers enter in my ears./ No more, sweet Hamlet" (3.4.95-96). Gertrude's guilt of knowing Claudius murdering former king is shown as she relates her former husband's ears being poisoned to hers when Hamlet shows his madness.