I don't understand this question :

Question

what were the circumstances of hamlet sr.'s death?

are they asking what triggered his death?

or what was the situation that triggered hamlet's death?

Answer 1

The question is asking how the elder Hamlet died. You'll find this question answered when the ghost of the elder Hamlet speaks with his son (Hamlet) in the first act.

Answer 2

thank you so much! you're helping us a lot :)

Answer 3

You're very welcome.

In addition...

Here is a wonderful site:
http://nfs.sparknotes.com/

Find the title and choose the part you want to read. You'll find it in two columns -- Shakespearean English in one column, modern day English in the other.