These three passages all exhibit the author’s ________ tone concerning the dynastic system in China.

critical
nostalgic
prideful
jealous

critical

Based on the information provided, we can determine the tone of the author concerning the dynastic system in China by analyzing the given options.

1. Critical: This option suggests that the author has a negative or disapproving attitude towards the dynastic system in China.

2. Nostalgic: This option implies that the author has a sentimental or longing tone when discussing the dynastic system in China, possibly indicating a fondness for the past.

3. Prideful: This option suggests that the author has a tone that is full of pride or admiration for the dynastic system in China.

4. Jealous: This option implies that the author feels envy or resentment towards the dynastic system in China.

Given these options, we can eliminate "prideful" and "jealous" as they do not accurately characterize the author's tone towards the dynastic system in China. Without additional context, it is difficult to determine between "critical" and "nostalgic" as the correct answer.